Mastering the Business of Interior Design: Success by Design
As an interior designer, do you find yourself caught between your love for design and the realities of running a profitable business? Whether you're launching your firm or scaling to new heights, the business side of interior design can be complex—and often overwhelming.
That’s where Katie Decker-Erickson comes in. As a business coach for interior designers and the founder of a multimillion-dollar design firm, she knows firsthand what it takes to build a thriving, sustainable business while staying true to your creative vision. With nearly 20 years in the industry and a Master’s degree in Business Administration, Katie is actively in the trenches—elevating her own firm while helping other designers master the business of design.
We’ll answer questions like:
How do I get more interior design clients?
What should I charge for interior design services?
What are the best marketing strategies for interior designers?
How can I grow my interior design business?
How do I build a brand as an interior designer?
How can I scale my interior design business?
What systems do I need to run a successful interior design business?
How do I create a client onboarding process for my design firm?
Is it worth hiring a coach for my interior design business?
This show delivers actionable tips on how to grow an interior design business with smart, sustainable strategies. You'll get insights on marketing your interior design services, building a strong brand, streamlining your systems, and scaling your firm—without burning out.
If you're an interior designer, firm owner, or creative entrepreneur ready to build a profitable, passion-filled business, you're in the right place.
Tune in, and let’s grow your interior design business—together.
Mastering the Business of Interior Design: Success by Design
97. Why Raising Your Rates Didn’t Give You More Freedom (And What Actually Will)
Use Left/Right to seek, Home/End to jump to start or end. Hold shift to jump forward or backward.
You raised your rates.
You updated your website.
You had the uncomfortable conversations.
And you thought, This is it. This is the turning point.
But you’re still working just as much. Maybe more.
If that’s you, this episode of Success by Design is going to hit home.
In this conversation, I break down why raising your interior design fees is often necessary — but never the magic fix everyone promises. Higher pricing doesn’t automatically create more freedom. In fact, without the right structure, it can actually create more pressure.
We talk about:
- Why pricing is a multiplier, not a solution
- How higher-paying clients come with higher expectations
- The real reason your margin may still be leaking (scope creep)
- Why freedom is created by structure — not revenue
Two designers can charge the same rates and have completely different experiences. The difference isn’t talent. It’s systems, boundaries, and decision ownership.
If you’ve quietly wondered whether raising your rates was a mistake, this episode will give you clarity.
Because your business should be working for you — not the other way around.
Connect with Katie
LinkedIn
Business Strategy Sessions for Interior Designers
Free Resources for scaling your interior design firm
Website
