If you enjoy decorating and designing your home to be the best version it can be, you may have considered starting your own interior design business.
Starting such a venture in the UK requires a unique blend of creativity, strategic planning and an understanding of industry and legal standards.
Here are some steps to help you start your dream interior design business.
Develop a comprehensive business plan
Before you can begin beautifying the nation’s houses, you need to focus your business on a detailed business plan.
Begin by identifying your target market. You may want to focus on commercial properties such as shops or hotels, or you could turn towards residential areas and look at homeowners who want an overhaul.
From here, you can think about the services you want to offer to the market.
Financial projections are possibly the hardest part to get your head around. Make sure you do lots of research and even sign on to business courses to get this bit right – funding may depend on what you state here.
Register your business and understand legal requirements
You will have to decide whether you want to run your business as a limited company or as a sole trader. There are benefits to both options, so make sure you do your research and decide which is best for you.
Choosing to set up a limited company means you need to register with Companies House and fulfil the filing obligations every year.
Sole traders do not have to register anywhere but they are still subject to tax obligations like companies.
Insurance is a must-have as well whatever your business setup. Public liability and professional indemnity insurance are both necessary to protect your business and the public in the event of an accident or legal issue.
Build a strong portfolio and online presence
Clients are going to want to see examples of your work before you hire them so make sure it looks amazing. Try to keep it as diverse as possible as every client’s needs are different.
For example, you could showcase a home office you have transformed into a zen haven as well as a bedroom which has benefitted from clever fitted storage solutions.
You can also show off your work online as well. Have an engaging website and social media presence which is cohesive as well.
Make sure your branding is obvious and reflects what you want to achieve as a designer.
Network and continue professional development
Once you have started gaining clients and projects, you can think about your next steps.
Join the British Institute of Interior Design for chances to network with other professionals, an insight into trends and business practices and learning opportunities.
Networking can lead to so many exciting routes. You may be asked to partner with other designers or be exposed to a new niche that suits your aesthetic perfectly.
