Residential interior designer

Homeowners renovating a kitchen, bathroom or whole home, and buyers of new builds choosing finishes.

Project fee, hourly rate or a percentage of the project budget. Some designers also earn trade discounts on products, which should be disclosed to clients.

• Space planning and technical drawing
• Knowledge of materials, finishes and building basics
• Project management and budgeting
• Building relationships with contractors and suppliers

• Check whether your province regulates the title or practice of interior design, and whether any work needs a registered professional
• Commercial general liability and professional liability insurance are worth checking
• Building permits may be needed for structural or layout changes, so check with your municipality
• Check whether your municipality requires a home-based business licence
• Projects can run over budget or schedule, so use clear written contracts and payment stages

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $1,500 to $8,000, depending on your software, equipment, samples and insurance. You work from a home studio and visit client sites, so you avoid renting premises.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on the size and number of projects and your fees. Projects can run over budget or schedule, so use clear written contracts and payment stages.

Check whether your province regulates the title or practice of interior design, and whether any work needs a registered professional. Also check building permits for structural or layout changes, home-based business licensing, and professional liability and general liability insurance.