What makes turnkey interior design services unique, and how do they differ from full-service design?
In this episode, I break down turnkey styling—the extra layer of service that transforms an empty house into a completely livable home. Learn the difference between standard full-service design (which includes mood boards, floor plans, and furnishings) and turnkey services that add those final touches clients need to simply “turn the key” and move in.
I walk you through exactly what turnkey items to include in each room—from luxurious sheets and towels to kitchen essentials, decorative accessories, and organizational solutions.
I also share practical advice on sourcing these items, asking clients the right questions about their lifestyle needs, and even including a personal story about learning the importance of offering sheet selection to clients. You’ll discover how offering these additional services not only delights your clients but can also become a valuable addition to your design business.
If you are looking for a roadmap for implementing turnkey styling in your design business, this episode is a must-listen. By the end, you’ll understand how to anticipate your clients’ every need and create a home that’s truly ready for living from day one.
Tune in now!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode
- Discover how to expand your design services beyond traditional full-service interior design with turnkey styling
- Learn specific room-by-room turnkey recommendations – a complete checklist for implementing turnkey styling service in your design business
- Gain insights on how to build a reputation for exceptional, comprehensive interior design services that clients will love and recommend
Check out these episode highlights
02:01 Full-Service Interior Design vs. Turnkey Service
Turnkey service is:
- an extension of full-service interior design
- goes beyond to make a space “ready to be lived in”
- especially valuable for new builds and second/vacation homes that need complete furnishing
Full-service typically includes:
- Creating mood boards
- Discussing style preferences
- Developing floor plans, elevations, drawings, renderings
- Creating design concepts
- Project management for implementation
- Furnishing and accessorizing
05:13 Turnkey Items for Kitchen
- Dishware and cookware
- Cups, glasses (water, wine, cocktail), decanters
- Coffee mugs, teacups
- Small appliances and kitchen tools
- Dish towels, cleaning supplies
06:48 Turnkey Items for Bathroom
- Towels (bath sheets, bath towels)
- Bathrobes
- Bath mats
- Shower curtains/liners
- Soap dispensers/dishes
- Countertop accessories
- Hair dryers and guest amenities
08:04 Turnkey Items for Bedroom
- Luxury sheets (different thread counts and materials)
- Comforters, duvets, top sheets
11:16 Turnkey Items for Living Room & Common Areas
- Throw rugs
- Plants
- Candles, frames, books, trays
- Blanket baskets (for organized storage)
- Table linens, tablecloths, placemats
- Organizational items
13:49 Enhancing Client Experience with Turnkey Services
- Recommends working with professional organizers
- Recommends professional closet organization
- Client care throughout the process (sending gifts)
- Client binder with all specifications, plans, care instructions, warranties
- Connecting clients with other professionals, such as financial advisors, to provide additional value and support
Next Steps
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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Links Mentioned
- Sourcing for sheets and comforters? Check out Cozy Earth and use code DESIGNCURIOUS for 40% off
Thanks for listening. I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week…