Use the 10 Layers of Design to Maximize Profit

Maximizing profits in your design business isn’t just about charging more; it’s about strategically increasing the value of each project through thoughtful layering and client education. This post will explore how you can maximize your interior design profits by multiplying the investment in every project while delivering exceptional value to your clients.

1. Embrace the 10 Layers of Design

To maximize your interior design profits from each project, start by incorporating the 10 essential layers of design. These layers are the foundation of a well-rounded and impactful interior space, and they include:

Flooring: Whether it’s new flooring or refinishing existing surfaces, this foundational layer sets the tone for the entire room.

Rugs: Rugs act as artwork for the floor, grounding the space and defining areas within the room.

Paint: From simple wall paint to decorative finishes and murals, paint is an essential element that adds depth and personality.

Upholstery: This category includes sofas, chairs, ottomans, and poufs, all of which contribute to the comfort and style of the space.

Pillows and Throws: These soft goods are critical for layering and adding texture, warmth, and color.

Case Goods: These include tables, consoles, and other wooden furniture pieces that add structure and functionality.

Lamps and Lighting: Lighting creates mood and ambiance. Using a mix of lamps, chandeliers, and sconces helps create inviting pools of light.

Accessories and Art Objects: These pieces add personality and often include memorabilia, collections, and unique finds.

Artwork: Original artwork or carefully chosen wall decor pieces complete the visual impact of a room.

Window Treatments and Drapery: These are essential for privacy, light control, and adding a finishing touch to the room’s design.

2. Move Clients from Need to Want

One of the key strategies to maximize your interior design profits is to shift your clients’ mindset from “need” to “want.” Needs are logical, limited, and often tied to a budget. Wants, on the other hand, are emotional, expansive, and tied to investment. By educating your clients about the value and emotional impact of a well-designed space, you can guide them to invest in more comprehensive and layered designs.

3. Avoid Budget Thinking

Encourage your clients to move away from a budget-focused mindset. Budgets can be restrictive, limiting the potential of a project. Instead, frame the conversation around the investment they are making in their lifestyle and well-being. When clients see their spending as an investment in their quality of life, they are more likely to embrace additional layers and higher-end options, which will help you maximize your interior design profits.

4. Use Storytelling to Enhance Value

Storytelling is a powerful tool in design. Each element of a project—whether it’s a piece of furniture, a rug, or a piece of artwork—should have a story that resonates with the client.

By sharing the origins, craftsmanship, and unique aspects of each piece, you can create an emotional connection that makes clients more likely to invest in those items, thereby helping you maximize your interior design profits.

5. Offer Goods on Approval

A proven method to maximize your interior design profits is by offering goods on approval. This approach allows clients to experience the full impact of your design choices in their space before committing to purchase. 

By styling a room with curated accessories, artwork, and soft goods, you give clients the opportunity to see how these items elevate their space. Most clients end up keeping 80-100% of the items brought in this way, significantly increasing the project’s value.

Key Takeaway

Maximizing profit in your design business is about more than just increasing prices—it’s about adding value through strategic design layers, educating clients, and guiding them from a mindset of need to want. 

By implementing these strategies, you can maximize your interior design profits, ensuring that each project is not only profitable but also deeply satisfying for both you and your clients.

If you’re ready to increase your interior design practice profits, work exclusively with ideal clients, and enjoy the time and resources for your extraordinary life, explore your coaching options. We’ve got your back in the business of interior design.