Interior designers are often hired to transform spaces into something extraordinary—but what happens when the client’s taste is… well, not quite on-trend? Balancing client satisfaction with professional integrity is one of the trickiest parts of the job. The challenge becomes even harder when clients insist on keeping outdated furniture or decor choices that clash with the design vision.
If you’re wondering how to handle clients with bad taste without losing your mind (or your paycheck), you’re not alone. Here’s how other designers navigate this delicate dance—while still delivering a result both you and your client can live with.
1. Identify Whether It’s a Portfolio Project or a Paycheck Project
Not every project will end up on your Instagram grid—and that’s okay.
💡 southerngraceinteriors put it simply:
“There are ‘portfolio projects’ and then there are ‘paycheck projects’. In this industry, there are more of the latter. Social media would have us believe otherwise, but that’s not reality.”
Why It Matters:
- Portfolio projects build your brand.
- Paycheck projects pay the bills.
- Understanding the difference helps you manage your own expectations.
How to Implement:
- If the client’s taste is non-negotiable, focus on their happiness, not your portfolio.
- Charge accordingly for your time and expertise.
- Don’t photograph the project if it doesn’t align with your aesthetic.
2. Lead with Education, Not Judgment
Many clients don’t even realize their taste is outdated—they simply don’t know what they don’t know.
💡muffinsmeatshack shared:
“A client comes to you for your expertise, not your taste. You are a mirror, not the reflection.”
Why It Matters:
- Clients aren’t hiring you to impose your taste—they’re hiring you to elevate theirs.
- Education builds trust and confidence in your recommendations.
- Guiding clients instead of judging them helps maintain a positive relationship.
How to Implement:
- Create mood boards showing how updated pieces would improve the space.
- Explain why certain choices clash with the architecture or color palette.
- Use before-and-after visuals to demonstrate the impact of small upgrades.
3. The 80/20 Rule: Balance Their Taste with Your Vision
Most designers agree that some compromise is inevitable.
💡peter.hutchin.joinery said:
“I try to guide them, but at the end of the day, they are paying for what they want. Although I probably won’t be sharing the pictures.”
Why It Matters:
- The 80/20 rule suggests that 80% of the project should reflect your expertise, while 20% accommodates the client’s preferences.
- This balance keeps the client happy without completely sacrificing your aesthetic.
How to Implement:
- Prioritize key architectural elements, finishes, and layouts.
- Let the client keep a few sentimental or cherished pieces.
- Use styling tricks like custom upholstery or layered textiles to help blend in less attractive pieces.
4. Address Sentimental Attachments with Empathy
Sometimes, bad taste is really just emotional attachment in disguise.
💡 rebeccawyborn shared:
“Maybe the furniture has sentimental value. I would try to find out the motivation for wanting to keep it, and if of sentimental value, then figure out how to implement it with items that complement the style of the home.”
Why It Matters:
- Sentimental pieces often hold deep personal meaning.
- A little empathy goes a long way toward building trust.
- Incorporating sentimental items shows clients you’re on their side, not just pushing your own agenda.
How to Implement:
- Ask clients about the story behind the pieces they want to keep.
- Suggest reupholstering, refinishing, or repainting sentimental items.
- Use clever styling tricks to make beloved pieces feel more intentional.
5. Use Visual Tools to Influence Their Taste
A client may not see the problem until you show them the difference.
💡 stephaniehiltondesign shared:
“Put together a quick inspo board to get them excited about what it can look like. Don’t do any sourcing—just grab some Pinterest images.”
Why It Matters:
- Visual tools help clients understand the bigger picture.
- It’s easier to guide taste subtly than to criticize it outright.
- Inspiration boards shift the conversation from what’s wrong to what’s possible.
How to Implement:
- Create Pinterest mood boards before the project starts.
- Use rendering software to show their existing furniture in a fresh context.
- Share curated Instagram saves or magazine clippings during consultations.
6. Set Boundaries Early in Your Contract
If you’re worried about a client’s bad taste derailing the project, protect yourself upfront.
Why It Matters:
- Clear contracts prevent scope creep and creative clashes.
- Clients need to understand that certain choices can affect both timeline and outcome.
- Setting boundaries reinforces that your expertise is part of the value they’re paying for.
How to Implement:
- Include clauses about revisions and changes in your contract.
- Specify how many design revisions are included before hourly fees kick in.
- Be upfront about what happens if clients source their own items.
7. Know When to Walk Away
Not every client is the right fit—and that’s okay.
💡 thegaleanagroup shared:
“You either make the decision that you are going to do it and be more of an ‘assistant’ to them vs. an advisor, or you walk away.”
Why It Matters:
- Taking on clients who don’t respect your expertise can drain your creativity and confidence.
- Protecting your brand means knowing when to say no to the wrong projects.
- Walking away frees you up for clients who trust your vision.
How to Implement:
- Screen clients carefully during the discovery call.
- Have a polite exit strategy if you sense the project isn’t a good fit.
- Trust your instincts—if it feels like a nightmare before the contract is signed, it probably will be.
Final Thoughts: Trust the Process
Bad taste isn’t always a dealbreaker—as long as the client trusts your expertise. The key is to educate, guide, and compromise strategically. If they still won’t budge? Focus on making their home feel good to them—even if it’s not photo-worthy for your portfolio.
✔ Educate with empathy
✔ Use visuals to influence their choices
✔ Set clear expectations in your contract
✔ Balance their taste with your vision
✔ Know when to walk away
At the end of the day, the happiest client is one who feels heard, respected, and a little more stylish than when they started.
