How to Start an Interior Design Business: Step-by-Step Guide
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
Starting an interior design business can be a rewarding venture for creative professionals who want to transform spaces and build a profitable brand. Whether you're focused on residential renovations, commercial design, home staging, or new construction, launching your own firm requires planning, strategy, and protection.
At Wexford Insurance, we specialize in helping interior designers protect their businesses with tailored insurance solutions. We work with design professionals across specialties—from staging and accessorizing to full-service design-build firms—and we understand what it takes to launch successfully.
Step 1: Define Your Interior Design Niche
Before you start, decide what type of interior design services you’ll offer. This helps you target the right clients and build a focused brand.
Popular niches include:
Residential Interior Design
Commercial Interior Design
Home Staging
Renovation and Remodeling Design
New Construction Design
Accessorizing and Décor Consulting
Step 2: Create a Business Plan
A solid business plan outlines your goals, services, pricing, target market, and marketing strategy. It also helps you estimate startup costs and plan for profitability.
Explore Interior design business plan template
Step 3: Register Your Business and Get Licensed
Choose a business structure (LLC, sole proprietorship, etc.), register your business name, and check local licensing requirements. Some states may require certification or registration for interior designers.
Step 4: Build Your Portfolio and Website
Showcase your design style and past projects with a professional portfolio. Your website should include:
Service descriptions
Before-and-after photos
Client testimonials
Contact form and booking options
🔗Read more: Best website builders for interior designers
Step 5: Market Your Services
Use social media, email marketing, and local networking to attract clients. Consider joining design associations and listing your business on platforms like Houzz or Thumbtack.
Boost Your Interior Design Business Visibility with Contractor Back Office
Contractor Back Office helps interior design business owners build a strong digital presence by managing websites & SEO, CRM systems, and social media platforms. These tools make it easier to promote services, engage clients, and grow your brand.
Step 6: Set Up Contracts and Pricing
Create clear service agreements that outline scope, timelines, payment terms, and cancellation policies. Pricing models may include hourly rates, flat fees, or percentage-based billing.
Step 7: Protect Your Business with Insurance
Interior design businesses face risks like property damage, client disputes, and employee injuries. Having the right insurance coverage is essential for credibility and protection.
At Wexford Insurance, we help interior designers secure:
General Liability Insurance – Covers third-party property damage and injury claims.
Professional Liability Insurance – Protects against claims of design errors or negligence.
Commercial Auto Insurance – Covers vehicles used for site visits or transporting décor.
Workers Compensation Insurance – Required if you have employees; covers job-related injuries.
Commercial Property Insurance – Protects your office, studio, or inventory.
Equipment Insurance – Covers tools, laptops, and design software from theft or damage.
Who We Help
We work with a wide range of design professionals, including:
Interior Design Firms
Design and Build Construction Firms
Accessorizing Specialists
House Staging Companies
Home Décor Businesses
New Home Construction Design Firms
Whether you're launching your first business or expanding your services, Wexford Insurance is here to help you protect your brand and grow with confidence.
Final Thoughts
Starting an interior design business takes creativity, planning, and protection. By defining your niche, building a portfolio, marketing your services, and securing the right insurance, you’ll be well-positioned to succeed in a competitive industry.
Ready to launch your interior design business?
Contact Wexford Insurance for coverage tailored to your needs.
