(Hint: It’s not just Instagram anymore)
When we asked the Interior Design Community, “How are you finding new clients right now?” we expected the usual suspects: Instagram, referrals, maybe a fancy networking event.
But the answers we got were something else. Hundreds of designers replied with innovative, scrappy, deeply strategic methods that are actually working right now, and they’re not waiting around for the algorithm to toss them a lead.
From building lifestyle brands and email funnels to in-person networking and unexpected platforms like Pinterest, here’s a behind-the-scenes look at what’s working (and what’s not) for interior designers bringing in new clients in 2025.
1. Your Newsletter Might Be Your Most Valuable Sales Tool
We saw this one pop up again and again: email newsletters are quietly doing the heavy lifting.
@nicolebaxterinteriors:
“Most of my clients come from my newsletter. I talk about lifestyle, not just interiors. People feel connected and ready to work together.”
Rather than blasting design tips or finished projects, Nicole leans into storytelling—what she’s cooking, reading, and renovating at home. That kind of openness builds loyalty. By the time a subscriber is ready to hire, they already feel like they know her.
Want to stand out in a crowded inbox? Ditch the salesy tone. Make your newsletter feel like a conversation.
2. Pinterest Is the Unsung Hero of Search-Based Leads
Pinterest doesn’t get the hype it deserves in design circles. But it’s a sleeping giant for local SEO and evergreen content.
@emilymossdesign:
“A client just found me on Pinterest and booked a full-home project. I hadn’t even updated my site.”
Pinterest boards often show up in Google results. And unlike Instagram, where content disappears in 48 hours, a single pin can drive traffic for years.
You’re missing out on organic leads ready to hire if you’re not adding local keywords and linking pins to your service pages.
3. Talk to Real Humans—Even Off the Clock
Yes, it’s obvious. But it came up so often we had to include it.
@m.rkinteriordesign:
“I joined a local moms group and started talking about what I do. I’ve booked three projects this year from that.”
@maryschalkdesign:
“I get leads from my gym, the wine bar, the library. People want someone they feel they know.”
It’s not about handing out business cards. It’s about being visible and genuinely helpful in your community. If you’re hiding behind your screen, you’re leaving connections on the table.
4. Expert Status Is Earned in Small, Smart Moments
Designers are showing up where people don’t expect to find a designer, but where trust is built.
@jennfischanginteriors:
“I taught a home styling workshop at a local art center. One of the attendees hired me for a kitchen remodel.”
Workshops. Library talks. Guest spots on local podcasts. Even a small magazine column. This positions you as the go-to expert, and that turns into revenue.
5. Referral Magic Takes Maintenance
Referrals are still the holy grail but they don’t generate themselves.
@hausofmeeshie:
“I send handwritten thank-you notes and small gifts to past clients. It’s personal, and they always refer me.”
@lauraudesigncollective shares past project photos and tags former clients, subtly prompting shares and word-of-mouth buzz.
Don’t assume clients will refer you. Stay top-of-mind.
6. Your Website Should Be a Conversion Tool—Not Just a Lookbook
Most designers treat their website like a portfolio. But the smart ones build it like a sales funnel.
@acresandco.design:
“I added a welcome video, simplified the inquiry form, and clarified my process. Inquiries doubled.”
Video builds trust. Clear services copy removes friction. And a simple form with a follow-up email closes the loop.
Want more clients? Make it stupid simple to understand what you do and how to start.
7. Personal Brands Are Booking Full-Service Projects
The most successful designers aren’t just showing pretty rooms. They’re building a world clients want to be part of.
@sandracollinsinteriors:
“I show my own home, my favorite recipes, my travels. Clients say, ‘I feel like I know you. I want to hire you.’”
Lifestyle content helps followers self-select: “This is my kind of designer.”
8. What’s Not Working Anymore in 2025
- Instagram Without Strategy: Pretty pictures aren’t enough. You need video, FaceTime, and real engagement.
- Expensive Print Ads: Several designers reported no ROI. Use that budget for content creation or SEO.
- Generic Blog Posts: AI filler is obvious. Your audience wants your voice, perspective, and project stories.
- Hoarding Your Process: Designers hiding pricing, timelines, or “how it works” are losing leads. Clients want transparency.
Want More Clients? Be More Human
What we heard again and again is this: clients don’t hire portfolios. They hire people they trust, feel aligned with, and see showing up consistently.
You don’t need a viral reel or a blue checkmark. You need:
- A clear offer
- A consistent presence
- A personal connection
From newsletters to Pinterest, wine bars to workshops, the most booked designers are the ones who keep showing up—strategically and authentically.
Related Posts You’ll Love:
- How Do You Track Design vs Product Revenue?
- How Do You Charge Friends and Family for Design Work Without Regret?
- How Designers Handle Clients Who Buy From Another Designer
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