Is the interior design industry evolving too quickly, and are you prepared for it?
Or maybe you are questioning whether pursuing a career as an interior designer is still a wise decision in today’s landscape.
In this episode, I take you through how the interior design industry has changed over the past 15 to 20 years, and what that means for you today.
From pandemic ups and downs, to social media trends, to working with AI, you’ll learn how the industry has grown and where it’s going next.
If you’re wondering what skills and services clients need now, this episode gives you clear answers. I share what services clients are looking for, which skills matter most, and how you can stand out. The career is always changing, but that means more opportunities if you’re ready to adapt.
Tune in now to stay confident and creative in a changing world.
👉 Need help launching your interior design business step-by-step? Join the Launch Your Business Bootcamp —doors are still open!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode
- Find out which tools, tech, and mindset shifts are helping designers succeed today, even without a degree or traditional experience
- Get insights into growing trends like e-design, content creation, niche services, and how you can use them to stand out and reach more clients
- Review your existing business model and pricing structures to determine the best approach for your interior design practice
Check out these episode highlights
01:37 Pandemic’s Impact on the Industry
The boom in interior design projects from 2020 to 2023 as people focused on improving their homes
Post-pandemic decline in project volume as clients are now traveling and enjoying their renovated homes
Result: slower pace in the industry; welcomed by many designers seeking work-life balance
03:37 Rise of Work-From-Home and Home Office Design
Continued demand for functional home workspaces due to hybrid work models
Even with some return-to-office mandates, home office design remains a key need
03:58 Sustainable Design Trends
Strong growth in sustainable and eco-conscious design due to awareness of climate change
Emphasis on low-VOC materials, cleaner air, and materials with low carbon footprints
The California regulations influencing greener choices
04:59 Social Media’s Influence
Platforms like Instagram shifted from personal to professional use showcasing portfolios and influencing home design trends
Triggered comparison culture but also expanded opportunities for design influence and inspiration
06:15 Tariffs & Economic Uncertainty
Fluctuating tariffs impacting pricing and project planning
Despite economic slowdowns, some clients are moving forward thanks to long-term savings
Clients are advised to start remodels now to avoid future price hikes
07:42 Career Trends in Interior Design
Residential design remains in demand, especially high-end and whole-home remodels
More awareness of interior designers as accessible for even middle-income clients
Options like consultations, Zoom sessions, and partial services are growing
Interior design has grown from an elite service to a mainstream career
10:19 Virtual & E-Design Opportunities
Remote design services are scalable and cost-effective (low overhead)
Ideal for new designers seeking flexibility and reach
10:50 Rise of Design Content Creation
The boom in educational and entertainment-based design content (YouTube, podcasts, courses) provides new revenue streams for designers
The rise of HGTV and digital home makeover shows have made interior design more accessible and popular
Viable career path through affiliate links, sponsorships, and paid programs
12:21 Niche Specializations and Digital Tools
Specializing in areas like sustainable design, color psychology, kitchen & bath, and Feng Shui can attract specific clientele
Google and websites have become essential for showcasing portfolios and building trust with clients
14:07 Job Opportunities in 2025
In-house design positions in architecture firms and as design assistants are becoming more common
Growing trend of designers hiring long-term staff
14:37 Education and Licensing Trends
Formal education is still valuable but not essential for residential design
Tech skills (CAD, renderings, mood boards) are accessible through online courses and YouTube
15:41 Impact of AI and Business Model Shifts
Tools like ChatGPT and AI renderings help visualize concepts
Some firms are returning to hand-rendering to stand out from digital oversaturation
Business models are shifting to offer more flexibility, including hourly, value-based, and flat-fee pricing
The industry is more transparent making it easier for designers to understand business practices and pricing
17:20 The Future of Interior Design
The importance of adapting to societal changes and embracing new technologies
AI won’t replace designers; people prefer human interaction, especially for project management and understanding clients’ needs
The need for interior designers will continue to grow, with more applications and software to aid in creativity and business management
Next Steps
- Join the Launch Your Business Bootcamp and launch your design business this summer
Grab your freebies:
- Furnishings Investment Guide
- Remodel Budget and Timeline Guide
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Take a Quiz!
- Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style if you are curious about your design style
- Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Join the My Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Email me at [email protected] if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at @rwarddesign if you have a burning question
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Thanks for listening. I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week…