Online interior design service

Busy homeowners, renters and first-time buyers who want professional guidance at a lower cost than a full in-person service.

Fixed package prices per room, for example a concept pack or a full design with shopping list. Some designers add video consultations or earn affiliate commission from product links.

• Using design software such as 2D or 3D room planners
• Clear written and visual communication
• Organising several small projects at once
• Marketing yourself online

• Professional indemnity insurance, check what cover suits remote advice
• Clear terms on revisions, delivery times and what you are not responsible for, such as builders' work or measurement errors
• If you use affiliate links, check the advertising rules on disclosing them
• Using images and product photos only where you have permission, and handling client photos and personal data carefully under data protection rules
• Standing out from cheap or free online design tools, so be clear about what personal service you give

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £200 to £1,500, depending on the design software, website and marketing you set up. Fixed-price packages help you keep track of what each project costs you.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £300 to £2,500, depending on how many packages you sell and how you price them. You need to stand out from cheap or free online design tools.

Check what professional indemnity cover suits remote advice, set clear terms on revisions and delivery times, check the advertising rules on disclosing affiliate links, and make sure you have permission for images and handle client photos under data protection rules.