Interior design is a vast and varied industry, with services that can range from full-service design to simple consultations. It can be difficult to determine what services to offer as an interior designer, especially when starting out. This article will explore the different types of interior design services available, and how to define them for your business.
Importance of Defining Your Interior Design Service Offerings
As an interior designer, it is important to have a clear understanding of the services you offer. This will help you target the right clients and avoid scope creep (when clients ask for additional services that are outside of your original agreement). Furthermore, defining your services will help you determine your pricing structure.
Types of Interior Design Services
There are many different types of interior design services that you can offer. Here are some of the most common:
Full-service interior design: This type of service includes everything from initial consultations to project management and installation. Full-service interior designers typically work on residential projects, although they can also take on commercial projects.
Partial interior design services: Partial interior design services can include anything from consultations to styling services. This type of service is often less expensive than full-service interior design, and is a good option for those who only need help with specific aspects of their project.
Interior design consultation: A consultation is a great way to get started with interior design. It typically includes an initial meeting, during which the designer will assess the space and discuss the client’s needs and goals. The designer will then provide a written report with recommendations. Designers typically charge by the hour for consultations. They can be a good option for clients who only need help getting started with their project.
eDesign: eDesign is a relatively new type of interior design service that allows clients to work with designers remotely. eDesign services typically include an initial consultation, design plans, and a shopping list. The client is then responsible for ordering the furniture and accessories, and installing them. eDesign is a good option for clients who live outside of the designer’s city, or want to save money on design fees.
Holiday decorating: Many interior designers offer holiday decorating services. This might be anything from simple Christmas tree decoration to complete holiday home makeovers. Designers typically charge by the hour or by the project for holiday decorating services.
Styling: Styling is a type of interior design service that focuses on creating attractive spaces for photo shoots, events, and other occasions. Stylists typically rent furniture and accessories from showrooms or prop houses, and then return them after the event. Styling services are typically charged by the day or by the project.
Niche services: There are many interior designers who specialize in niche services, such as eco-friendly design, kids’ rooms, or small spaces. These designers often have specific knowledge and experience that allows them to provide these specialized services.
Defining Your Services
Once you’ve decided what type of interior design services you want to offer, you’ll need to define each service. Here are some things to keep in mind when defining your interior design services:
Name: Each interior design service should have a name that accurately reflects what is included. For example, a full-service interior design package could be called “Complete Home Makeover” or “Designer for a Day”.
What’s included: Each interior design service should have a clear description of what is included. For example, a consultation might include an initial meeting, a written report, and up to two hours of follow-up consultations.
Timeline: Each interior design service should have a timeline that outlines how long the project will take. This is especially important for those who are working with clients on a tight deadline.
Billing method: Each interior design service should have a billing method that is appropriate for the scope of the project. For example, consultations can be billed by the hour, while full-service projects can be billed by the project or by the hour.
Ideal candidate: Each interior design service should have an ideal candidate in mind. This will help you attract the right clients for your business. For example, if you’re offering full-service interior design, you might want to target those who are looking for a complete home makeover.
How to Book the Services
Finally, you need to decide how you will book the services. There are a few different options to consider:
- Hourly rate: You can charge an hourly rate for your interior design services. This is a good option if you want to be paid for your time, regardless of the project.
- Project rate: You can charge a project rate for your interior design services. This is a good option if you want to be paid for the project, regardless of the time it takes.
- Retainer: You can charge a retainer for your interior design services. This is a good option if you want to be paid for your time and the project.
- Commission: You can charge a commission for your interior design services. This is a good option if you want to be paid for the project, based on the percentage of the total cost.
- Flat fee: You can charge a flat fee for your interior design services. This is a good option if you want to be paid for the project, regardless of the time it takes or the cost of the project.
No matter which option you choose, make sure that you are clear about your fees before you begin working with a client. This will help avoid any misunderstandings down the road.
Limit the Number of Services You Offer
One mistake that many interior designers make is trying to offer too many services. This can be overwhelming for both you and your clients. When starting out, it’s best to limit the number of services you offer. You can always add more services later on, as your business grows.
By offering a limited number of design services, you can focus on perfecting those services. This will help you attract clients who are looking for the specific services that you offer. It will also make it easier for you to market your business, as you won’t be trying to appeal to everyone.
When deciding which services to offer, start with the basics. Once you have a few clients under your belt, you can start to add more services. Just remember to focus on quality over quantity.
Conclusion
Clearly describing your interior design services will help your clients understand what you offer and decide if you’re a good fit for their needs. It will also help you attract the right clients for your business.