Theoretical Thursday: Interior Design: Expectations vs. Reality (Hint: It’s Not Just Fluffing Pillows)
How Designers Spend Their Time…
A Deeper Look 👀 ⬇️
▶️ 10% Research
This is where the magic begins. We dive into concept development, style references, and functional planning. It’s not just Pinterest boards—it’s technical product sourcing, trend forecasting, and innovation scouting that lay the foundation for every space.
▶️ 20% Site Visits
From initial walk-throughs to final punch lists, site visits are essential. We’re there to coordinate with contractors, ensure quality control, troubleshoot in real-time, and adapt when reality doesn’t quite match the plan (which happens more often than we want it to).
▶️ 5% Presentations
This might be the part you see the most—those polished mood boards, layout plans, and curated material samples—but it’s actually just a small slice of the pie. These are the moments we get to communicate the vision & collaborate with clients, bringing them into the design journey.
▶️ 20% Design
This is the deep work—space planning, creating technical drawings, building custom furniture specs, and finessing every detail of form and function. It’s creative, technical, and endlessly satisfying.
▶️ 30% Material & Product Selection
The largest chunk of time! We carefully source everything—from tile and textiles to lighting and hardware. This phase is a puzzle of availability, pricing, lead times, and aesthetics. It’s part detective work, part logistics, and all about cohesion.
▶️ 5% Decorating
The finishing touches get all the glory, but they’re only a small piece of the project. Styling shelves, fluffing pillows, and placing artwork is fun—but it follows months of behind-the-scenes hustle.
▶️ 15% Marketing
Running a design business means building a brand, too. That includes social media, photography, blogging, client outreach, and staying active in the design community. It’s essential for growth and connection.
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Which phase surprises you the most?
We love hearing how others perceive the work that goes into every project!
