Last Updated on June 12, 2025 by Tanya Janse van Rensburg
Getting new clients as an interior designer is not just about showing beautiful before-and-after photos.
While talent and taste are essential, a strong pipeline of potential clients is what keeps your business alive.
Today, many interior designers are adopting smarter strategies to expand their network and attract more qualified leads.
Instead of relying solely on traditional marketing, they’re exploring options such as lead generation services to target their ideal clients directly.
Some work with a sales outsourcing company to delegate prospecting, allowing them to focus solely on design.
Whether you're a solo designer or part of a growing studio, using more refined lead generation strategies can make a big difference.
One of the fastest ways to get warm, qualified leads is by aligning yourself with professionals who already work with your ideal client.
Builders and real estate agents often come across homeowners who need interior design help, especially after buying a new place or completing renovations.
Establishing a referral partnership means they can recommend your services as part of their process.
You can also offer to stage a model home or provide free consultations for their clients. This builds trust and puts you in front of people who are ready to invest in their space.
People love learning about design trends, color palettes, or how to decorate small spaces. Hosting small, invite-only workshops gives potential clients a taste of your expertise.
You don't need to rent a big venue—a client’s home, a co-working space, or even a high-end furniture showroom works well.
These events are great lead magnets because attendees are already interested in design. Collect their contact information during registration and follow up with a personalized offer.
Whether it’s a discounted room consultation or a home walkthrough, it helps convert interest into business.
Interior design clients often overlap with the clientele of luxury goods and services. Think kitchenware boutiques, art galleries, or high-end appliance retailers.
Partnering with them for cross-promotions or in-store design showcases can put your name in front of the right audience.
For example, you could design a mini room setup in a local furniture store and display your business cards and portfolio.
Or you could collaborate on a giveaway that requires entrants to share their contact details. These kinds of partnerships can boost visibility and bring in genuine leads who already appreciate premium design.
Happy clients are powerful marketing tools, but you can take it further with a well-structured referral program. Instead of offering basic discounts, provide unique experiences or designer perks.
Think along the lines of a private design preview, an invite to a launch party, or early access to your seasonal service package.
The key is to make your program feel exclusive and rewarding. Let past clients and business partners know they’re part of something special.
The more appreciated they feel, the more likely they’ll refer others who match your ideal customer profile.
Many interior designers overlook one of the most consistent sources of leads—property management companies and relocation services.
These businesses are constantly dealing with clients who are moving, upgrading, or preparing homes for rent or sale. That’s your sweet spot.
Reach out to these companies with a proposal to become their go-to designer. Offer move-in-ready packages, virtual staging, or post-relocation styling services.
These companies want to offer more value to their clients, and you can be part of that solution.
The best part? You’re getting leads that already have a need and a timeline.
In a competitive industry like interior design, creative talent alone isn’t enough—you need a steady stream of the right clients.
By leveraging strategic partnerships, hosting targeted events, and tapping into underused networks, you can build a lead generation system that works for you.
The more intentional your outreach, the faster your business grows—without burning out in the process.
