Decorating studio with sample library

Homeowners doing full-home refreshes, property developers and landlords styling rentals, and small businesses such as cafes and offices.

Project fees, hourly design time and, where agreed, a margin on furnishings you source and supply.

• Project and budget management
• Building relationships with suppliers and installers
• Presenting concepts to clients

• Commercial lease terms, check them carefully before signing
• Public liability insurance, and check whether professional indemnity and contents cover are needed
• Check council zoning and signage rules for your premises
• If you hire staff, check workers compensation requirements in your state
• Rules for businesses fitting out commercial spaces can differ, so check building and fire requirements with the council

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $8,000 to $35,000, depending on your premises, fit-out, the size of your sample library and insurance. Check commercial lease terms carefully before signing anything.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on how many whole-home or business projects you win. Expect a near full-time commitment, with a typical minimum of about 30 hours a week.

Check your lease terms, public liability insurance, and whether professional indemnity and contents cover are needed. Also check council zoning and signage rules, workers compensation if you hire staff, and building and fire requirements for fitting out commercial spaces.