The Business of Beautiful Spaces Podcast for Interior Designers | Interior Design Business Pocast

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Website: https://www.cathleenbarnesconsulting.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cathleenbarnesconsulting/

Step-by-step guides, AI Chat GPT Made Simple and Claude Made Simple, start at the very beginning and then walk you through building your own role-based AI assistants, complete with prompts, checklists, and plug-and-play workflows you can implement immediately. 
Get both guides (and more designer resources) here: https://thebusinessofbeautifulspaces.com/designer-resources

In just one focused hour, we’ll dive into whatever you need most—pricing strategies, client management, attracting high-end clients or building repeat business. You’ll get clarity, strategy, and expert advice based on my 27+ years of running a thriving, seven-figure design firm.

This is your chance to get real answers to the questions you’ve been dying to ask—from someone who’s actually been there.

Book your session as you need it—no strings attached.

Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us [email protected] or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

Laura Thornton is the  principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON.  Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. 

The Business of Beautiful Spaces  I @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
Thornton Design                                      I @thorntondesign

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In this episode, we dive into the essential process of determining your hourly rate as an interior designer. Whether you charge by the hour, use flat fees, or quote per project, understanding your hourly rate is crucial for accurate pricing and profitability. We cover everything you need to consider, from your geographic area, ideal client, and level of service to business expenses, desired salary, and profit margins. Learn how to calculate your rate, track your time, and avoid common pricing mistakes to ensure your design business thrives. 

Step-by-step guides, AI Chat GPT Made Simple and Claude Made Simple, start at the very beginning and then walk you through building your own role-based AI assistants, complete with prompts, checklists, and plug-and-play workflows you can implement immediately. 
Get both guides (and more designer resources) here: https://thebusinessofbeautifulspaces.com/designer-resources

In just one focused hour, we’ll dive into whatever you need most—pricing strategies, client management, attracting high-end clients or building repeat business. You’ll get clarity, strategy, and expert advice based on my 27+ years of running a thriving, seven-figure design firm.

This is your chance to get real answers to the questions you’ve been dying to ask—from someone who’s actually been there.

Book your session as you need it—no strings attached.

Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us [email protected] or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

Laura Thornton is the  principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON.  Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. 

The Business of Beautiful Spaces  I @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
Thornton Design                                      I @thorntondesign

Send us Fan Mail

 As interior designers, we know how critical communication is when working with clients. From the very first meeting to the final reveal, clear and empathetic communication can make or break a project. And let’s be honest, we’ve all had those stressful moments—when things don’t go according to plan, or clients are uncertain or overwhelmed.

Well, today, we’re diving into just that! I’m joined by two incredible guests—Alison Maratos, a Clinical Director and Registered Social Worker, and her sister Sarah St. Amand, who brings her unique perspective to the table. Together, they’ll share how we can create environments of trust, understanding, and clean communication with our clients.

We’re going to talk about values, scripting, mental checklists, and maybe even some physical ones—tools that can help us stay grounded and effective in our interactions, especially when the pressure’s on. So grab a coffee, take a seat, and get ready to connect with your clients like never before in 2025. You’ll leave this episode with practical tips to build stronger relationships, and hopefully, a little less stress along the way

Sarah St. Amand: @Sarahst.amandinteriordesign

Allison Maratos: https://maratoscounselling.com/team/alison-maslin-maratos/

Step-by-step guides, AI Chat GPT Made Simple and Claude Made Simple, start at the very beginning and then walk you through building your own role-based AI assistants, complete with prompts, checklists, and plug-and-play workflows you can implement immediately. 
Get both guides (and more designer resources) here: https://thebusinessofbeautifulspaces.com/designer-resources

In just one focused hour, we’ll dive into whatever you need most—pricing strategies, client management, attracting high-end clients or building repeat business. You’ll get clarity, strategy, and expert advice based on my 27+ years of running a thriving, seven-figure design firm.

This is your chance to get real answers to the questions you’ve been dying to ask—from someone who’s actually been there.

Book your session as you need it—no strings attached.

Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us [email protected] or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

Laura Thornton is the  principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON.  Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. 

The Business of Beautiful Spaces  I @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
Thornton Design                                      I @thorntondesign

Send us Fan Mail

In this reflection episode, Laura Thornton looks back on the highlights and lessons learned in 2024, including the success of aging-in-place bathroom projects and the challenges faced in the design business. She discusses the importance of visibility, experimenting with Instagram reels and interactive content to connect with clients and fellow designers. Laura emphasizes the profitability of smaller projects like custom drapery and furniture and the value of tracking profit margins. She also encourages designers to educate clients early on timelines and set clear expectations. In closing, Laura expresses heartfelt gratitude for the support and engagement from listeners throughout the year, motivating her to continue delivering valuable content into 2025.

Step-by-step guides, AI Chat GPT Made Simple and Claude Made Simple, start at the very beginning and then walk you through building your own role-based AI assistants, complete with prompts, checklists, and plug-and-play workflows you can implement immediately. 
Get both guides (and more designer resources) here: https://thebusinessofbeautifulspaces.com/designer-resources

Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us [email protected] or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

Laura Thornton is the  principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON.  Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. 

The Business of Beautiful Spaces  I @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
Thornton Design                                      I @thorntondesign

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of The Business of Beautiful Spaces, I’m joined by Nina Urzi, a powerhouse who transitioned from the tech industry to transform her family’s overwhelmed construction business into a thriving 8-figure company. With her background in corporate HR, sales, and marketing, Nina leveraged her expertise to implement systems, streamline processes, and build a successful construction business with more than 20 employees.

Now, as a stand-in COO for construction companies aiming to scale, Nina shares her unique perspective on how designers—especially women—can navigate the construction job site with confidence and authority. From building strong relationships with contractors to communicating effectively and handling challenges head-on, Nina’s advice is invaluable for anyone working in this space.

Whether you’re new to construction or looking to refine your approach, Nina’s story and insights will leave you inspired and equipped to thrive on the job site.

Links & Resources:

• Connect with Nina Urzi: Website 

Step-by-step guides, AI Chat GPT Made Simple and Claude Made Simple, start at the very beginning and then walk you through building your own role-based AI assistants, complete with prompts, checklists, and plug-and-play workflows you can implement immediately. 
Get both guides (and more designer resources) here: https://thebusinessofbeautifulspaces.com/designer-resources

In just one focused hour, we’ll dive into whatever you need most—pricing strategies, client management, attracting high-end clients or building repeat business. You’ll get clarity, strategy, and expert advice based on my 27+ years of running a thriving, seven-figure design firm.

This is your chance to get real answers to the questions you’ve been dying to ask—from someone who’s actually been there.

Book your session as you need it—no strings attached.

Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us [email protected] or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

Laura Thornton is the  principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON.  Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. 

The Business of Beautiful Spaces  I @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
Thornton Design                                      I @thorntondesign

Send us Fan Mail

In this podcast episode, we explore how niching down can help interior designers thrive in a competitive industry. Instead of trying to appeal to everyone, focusing on a specific audience allows you to sharpen your marketing focus, create meaningful connections, and position yourself as an expert. By identifying your strengths, passions, and the clients you enjoy working with most, you can align your business with a niche that’s both fulfilling and profitable. We discuss six key benefits of targeting smaller markets, from crafting stronger pitches and smarter spending to building trust and a distinct brand identity. This focused approach simplifies your marketing efforts, maximizes your impact, and lays the foundation for sustainable growth, empowering you to create deeper connections with the right clients while building a business you love.

Step-by-step guides, AI Chat GPT Made Simple and Claude Made Simple, start at the very beginning and then walk you through building your own role-based AI assistants, complete with prompts, checklists, and plug-and-play workflows you can implement immediately. 
Get both guides (and more designer resources) here: https://thebusinessofbeautifulspaces.com/designer-resources

In just one focused hour, we’ll dive into whatever you need most—pricing strategies, client management, attracting high-end clients or building repeat business. You’ll get clarity, strategy, and expert advice based on my 27+ years of running a thriving, seven-figure design firm.

This is your chance to get real answers to the questions you’ve been dying to ask—from someone who’s actually been there.

Book your session as you need it—no strings attached.

Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us [email protected] or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

Laura Thornton is the  principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON.  Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. 

The Business of Beautiful Spaces  I @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
Thornton Design                                      I @thorntondesign

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of The Business of Beautiful Spaces, we’re focusing on how to work smarter, not harder in 2025. As your design business grows, so do the demands on your time, energy, and resources. Streamlining your business isn’t just about saving time—it’s about creating a sustainable, profitable operation that delivers exceptional results for your clients without burning you out.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The importance of implementing project management tools to streamline workflows
• How outsourcing and delegating tasks can free you up for creativity and growth
• Proven strategies for managing client expectations and keeping projects on track
• Tips for reducing bottlenecks and avoiding unnecessary delays in your projects
• How streamlining improves client satisfaction and boosts your bottom line

Step-by-step guides, AI Chat GPT Made Simple and Claude Made Simple, start at the very beginning and then walk you through building your own role-based AI assistants, complete with prompts, checklists, and plug-and-play workflows you can implement immediately. 
Get both guides (and more designer resources) here: https://thebusinessofbeautifulspaces.com/designer-resources

Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us [email protected] or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

Laura Thornton is the  principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON.  Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. 

The Business of Beautiful Spaces  I @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
Thornton Design                                      I @thorntondesign

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of The Business of Beautiful Spaces, we dive into the ins and outs of professional photoshoots for your interior design projects. From understanding the costs and time commitments to navigating usage rights and creating the perfect shot list, this episode covers everything you need to know to make the most of your photography investment.

I also share my personal experiences with photoshoots, including the challenges of working around outdated focal points or less-than-ideal lighting, and how I overcame these obstacles by creating custom photography presets. These presets are designed to elevate your iPhone photos, ensuring consistency and professional-quality enhancements for your portfolio and social media.

For a limited time, you can grab my photography presets at 40% off using the code BLACKFRIDAY40. Visit The Profit Academy for Interior Designers website to purchase them and take your design photography to the next level!

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The true costs of professional photoshoots (beyond the photographer’s fee)
• Time commitments, including setup, styling, and teardown
• How to plan a photoshoot: creating shot lists, selecting props, and more
• The importance of clarifying photo usage rights and credits with photographers
• Strategies for subsidizing photoshoot costs with client purchases
• Why and how to use presets to enhance your photos

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to streamline your photoshoot process, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you showcase your beautiful work and grow your design business.

Links & Resources:

• Photography Presets: Get them here and use code BLACKFRIDAY40 for 40% off
• Connect with Laura Thornton: Website | Instagram

Step-by-step guides, AI Chat GPT Made Simple and Claude Made Simple, start at the very beginning and then walk you through building your own role-based AI assistants, complete with prompts, checklists, and plug-and-play workflows you can implement immediately. 
Get both guides (and more designer resources) here: https://thebusinessofbeautifulspaces.com/designer-resources

Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us [email protected] or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

Laura Thornton is the  principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON.  Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. 

The Business of Beautiful Spaces  I @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
Thornton Design                                      I @thorntondesign

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of The Business of Beautiful Spaces, we dive into strategic planning for a profitable 2025. Laura shares essential steps for setting actionable business goals, including assessing expenses, determining project requirements, balancing consultations and larger projects, setting clear goals, and aligning marketing efforts to attract profitable projects. She also discusses her own goals for the coming year, focusing on desirable projects like lake houses and cottages. For those looking to deepen their financial strategies, Laura offers a special Black Friday promotion on The Profit Academy for Interior Designers. Use code BLACKFRIDAY40 for 40% off the core 6-week course content—an invaluable investment to make 2025 your best year yet!

https://theprofitacademyforinteriordesigners.mykajabi.com/

Step-by-step guides, AI Chat GPT Made Simple and Claude Made Simple, start at the very beginning and then walk you through building your own role-based AI assistants, complete with prompts, checklists, and plug-and-play workflows you can implement immediately. 
Get both guides (and more designer resources) here: https://thebusinessofbeautifulspaces.com/designer-resources

Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us [email protected] or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

Laura Thornton is the  principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON.  Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. 

The Business of Beautiful Spaces  I @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
Thornton Design                                      I @thorntondesign

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, we dive into the advantages of having a dedicated design studio and how it can elevate your business. From projecting a more professional image and enhancing client trust, to showcasing your style and creativity in a real-world space, a studio offers unique benefits that go beyond what a home office can provide. We’ll explore how a studio can streamline your workflow, eliminate household distractions, and give you quick access to samples and resources. Plus, with a controlled environment for presentations and a hub for industry networking, a design studio becomes an invaluable investment in your brand and productivity.

Step-by-step guides, AI Chat GPT Made Simple and Claude Made Simple, start at the very beginning and then walk you through building your own role-based AI assistants, complete with prompts, checklists, and plug-and-play workflows you can implement immediately. 
Get both guides (and more designer resources) here: https://thebusinessofbeautifulspaces.com/designer-resources

In just one focused hour, we’ll dive into whatever you need most—pricing strategies, client management, attracting high-end clients or building repeat business. You’ll get clarity, strategy, and expert advice based on my 27+ years of running a thriving, seven-figure design firm.

This is your chance to get real answers to the questions you’ve been dying to ask—from someone who’s actually been there.

Book your session as you need it—no strings attached.

Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us [email protected] or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

Laura Thornton is the  principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON.  Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. 

The Business of Beautiful Spaces  I @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
Thornton Design                                      I @thorntondesign