Are you an interior designer looking to expand your services and meet the needs of today’s digitally-savvy clients? If so, it’s time to consider adding virtual interior design services to your offerings.
What is Virtual Interior Design?
Virtual interior design is an online service that allows designers to work with clients remotely, without the need for in-person meetings.
Traditionally you go to your client’s home, see the project in person and discuss how you work. In virtual design, all of that takes place online. You can either conduct your meetings via zoom or a similar platform, or you can offer similar packages and have the client email you pictures and measurements. For more in-depth projects I recommend meeting online.
I am a big fan of expectations. Setting the expectations upfront of what the client will be responsible for, things like accurate photos and measurements, and what they can expect to get from you in return is key. You will need to have an idea of what you will provide and at what cost before you start.
How to Get Started with Virtual Interior Design
To get started with virtual interior design, you’ll need to invest in the right tools.
- Zoom or a similar platform (do you need the free or paid plan? Depends on how long meetings may go. You don’t want to get cut off 40 min in because you are on the free plan).
- Canva or a similar tool to present virtual project files and mood boards
- Confidence that you are able to select colors and materials based on pictures alone
- Pictures of projects you have successfully completed virtually
- The pricing structure for your services
How to Deliver Your Virtual Interior Design Service
When working with clients virtually, communication is key.
Use video conferencing and screen-sharing tools to collaborate with clients in real time.
Be sure to include a detailed list of what’s included in the fee.
How to Handle Client Objections for Virtual Interior Design Services
Some clients may be hesitant to try virtual interior design, especially if they are used to working with designers in person. Be prepared to address their objections and concerns by providing a detailed explanation of the virtual design process. Again, you have to set expectations and be confident in what you deliver. Overcome client objections the same way you would with an in-person client. Knowing you are capable and being able to confidently guide the client is you best tool.
Get some client testimonials from those you have completed and send those to the potential clients. Testimonials are a great way to show that you’ve done this before and clients are happy with your work.
Make sure you have a smooth process in place. As with in-person design, the process is part of the design. Making sure the process is clear for both you and your client will help move the project along to completion.
Make sure you still have your “How we work” doc that sets not only expectations and things like fees but also states your policies for sample returns, return policy etc.
How to know if Virtual Interior Design Services are Right for You
If you are considering adding this, but your technical abilities make you nervous? Then virtual design may not be right for you. Given you are only able to connect virtually your technical abilities should be something you are confident in. If you enjoy and have time to sit at your computer then this is a great option! You also need to be able to communicate your visions via computer since you are unable to stand in the space. It is definitely a different experience to work with clients and never enter their homes.
I decided to offer virtual design, because I felt I could reach people so much further than the distance I could drive to their homes. I do prefer to work via zoom rather than only emailing designs. I feel it helps keep the personal connection.
By adding virtual interior design to your services, you can expand your reach and provide a convenient and accessible option for a wider variety of clients. With the right tools and approach, you can take your interior design business to the next level.
Need one on one support as you build your interior design business? Whether you serve your clients online or in person, MYDB will help you learn to thrive in your design business.
Join Manage Your Design Business here.
