"It’s not about finding as many clients as possible—it’s about finding the right ones." Happy clients bring repeat business—they become your biggest advocates. That's the true secret to a scaling design business. Free marketing, it's the best!
By focusing on quality over quantity, you can create a practice that thrives on referrals, satisfied customers, and projects that excite you. A well-structured sales funnel and clear business positioning are your tools to make this happen. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to attract the right clients, nurture them, and turn them into long-term assets for your business.
How Do You Get Clients as an Interior Designer?
To find the right clients, you need a clear strategy. It starts with understanding your strengths and what makes you unique. If you don't get this right, you're going to waste SO MUCH time and energy. So make sure you do this...
1. Define Your Ideal Client (Be as specific as possible!)
Knowing your ideal client helps you focus your energy on the people who are most likely to appreciate your work. Are you targeting high-net-worth homeowners? Budget-conscious families? Luxury retail spaces? Your positioning should reflect this.
Use our 40-page free client guide to identify your strengths and build a clear client persona. This guide will help you understand your value and how to communicate it effectively.
2. Showcase Your Work Online
A strong online presence is non-negotiable.
Create a portfolio that reflects your best work and aligns with your target audience’s taste.
Use social media platforms like Instagram to share project transformations, before-and-afters, and design tips.
We have social media marketing tips for interior designers here!
3. Referrals and Networking
Word-of-mouth remains one of the most powerful tools for finding new clients.
Stay in touch with past clients and encourage them to share their positive experiences.
Network with contractors, real estate agents, and other professionals who can recommend your services.
How Do I Market Myself as an Interior Designer?
Marketing is about positioning yourself as the go-to expert in your niche. Anything else is a waste, the world is a noisy place and you need to be cut-throat on time and money spent.
1. Build a Strong Brand Identity
Your brand sets the tone for how clients perceive you. Consistency in visuals, messaging, and tone builds trust and makes you memorable.
Use our essential collections of templates to establish a cohesive identity across all platforms.
Check out our free guide on building your brand for interior designers.
2. Share Valuable Content
Content marketing helps you connect with potential clients before they even reach out.
Post design tips, project insights, and behind-the-scenes stories on social media.
Write blogs or articles addressing common client questions, like “How to Choose the Right Interior Designer.”
Build content around your research. Get keyword research completed to understand how many people are searching for the things you're creating valuable content around. It'll allow you to concentrate your efforts.
The Sales Funnel for Interior Designers: Why It Matters
A sales funnel isn’t just a trendy concept—it’s a roadmap that helps you attract, nurture, and convert clients.
The Stages of the Funnel
1. Awareness: Getting Noticed
This is where potential clients first discover you.
Share high-quality images of your projects on Instagram.
Publish blogs that answer common design questions.
Offer free resources like our client guide to showcase your expertise and attract leads.
2. Interest: Building a Connection
At this stage, clients are curious. They want to learn more about your process and whether you’re the right fit.
Use Instagram Stories to share your process or highlight client testimonials.
Ensure your website clearly outlines your services and specialisations.
Automate and send out free guides, or your investment guide to build a connection and position yourself as THE interior designer for them, not just another option.
3. Decision: Converting Leads into Clients
Potential clients are evaluating their options. Make it easy for them to choose you.
Offer consultations to demonstrate your expertise.
Present professional, branded fee proposal templates that detail your process and pricing.
4. Retention: Keeping Clients Happy
Satisfied clients are your best source of referrals.
Provide exceptional service by staying organised with SOPs and interior design templates.
Follow up after projects to gather feedback and encourage referrals using tools such as handover templates.
Ways to Find More Interior Design Clients
Leverage Online Platforms: Use Houzz, LinkedIn, or local directories to showcase your work.
Encourage Word-of-Mouth: Ask happy clients to refer you to their network.
Invest in Local Advertising: Advertise in luxury magazines or high-traffic local spaces.
Network at Events: Attend design events or local business meetups to make connections.
Offer Free Guides: Demonstrate your value upfront to build trust and convert leads.
Why Finding the Right Clients Matters More Than Quantity
Chasing volume can lead to mismatched projects and burnout. Instead, focus on finding clients who:
Value your expertise.
Have budgets that align with your pricing.
Are likely to refer you to others.
By working with the right clients, you’ll build a sustainable business where referrals and repeat projects replace expensive advertising. Use our free client guide to refine your positioning and identify clients who resonate with your values.
Conclusion: Build a Thriving Interior Design Business
Getting clients isn’t just about luck—it’s about strategy. By focusing on your positioning, leveraging a sales funnel, and targeting the right clients, you can build a practice that thrives on referrals, repeat projects, and creative fulfilment.
Download our 40-page free client guide to understand your strengths, refine your funnel, and start attracting clients who truly value your expertise.
