Choosing the right project management software is a key decision for interior design businesses of all sizes. Today’s platforms range from all-in-one solutions with accounting and procurement to flexible tools focused on collaboration or visual design. This guide compares leading options—both specialized for interior design and general project management tools—highlighting features, pricing, and ideal use cases to help you find the best fit for your workflow.
Specialized Interior Design Platforms
Studio Designer
Overview:
A long established, industry-specific platform, Studio Designer provides comprehensive project management with integrated accounting and reporting capabilities. It’s widely used by larger firms and those needing robust financial controls.
- Strengths:
- All-in-one solution
- Deep financial reporting
- Scalable for complex projects
- Considerations:
- Steep learning curve
- Traditional interface
- Less focus on visual presentation tools
Design Manager
Overview:
Another veteran in the field, Design Manager combines project management and accounting, with strong reporting and inventory features. It’s trusted by many established firms.
- Strengths:
- Integrated accounting
- Detailed reports
- Product clipper for sourcing
- Considerations:
- Data entry can be time-consuming
- Interface feels dated
- Lacks built-in mood boards or 3D tools
Mydoma Studio
Overview:
Mydoma Studio streamlines workflow and client communication, offering mood boards, client portals, and proposal tools. It integrates with QuickBooks for accounting.
- Strengths:
- User-friendly
- Strong client-facing features
- Good for e-design
- Considerations:
- No full accounting built-in
- Some advanced features require integrations
Ivy (Houzz Pro)
Overview:
Now part of Houzz Pro, Ivy provides project management, sourcing, and client dashboard tools, with a focus on marketing and lead generation through Houzz’s marketplace.
- Strengths:
- Modern interface
- Marketing tools
- Integrated product library
- Considerations:
- No built-in accounting
- Higher cost
- Marketplace focus may not suit all business models
DesignFiles
Overview:
DesignFiles emphasizes ease of use and visual presentation, with drag-and-drop mood boards, client portals, and basic project management.
- Strengths:
- Very user-friendly
- Affordable
- Strong for visual deliverables
- Considerations:
- Limited advanced project management
- No accounting module
Programa
Overview:
Programa is a newer platform focused on simplicity and efficiency. It offers project scheduling, product libraries, procurement tracking, and integrates with QuickBooks for financials.
- Strengths:
- Clean interface
- Covers essential project management needs
- Affordable and scalable
- Considerations:
- Fewer advanced features (e.g., 3D design, deep reporting)
- No mobile app yet
- Still evolving
Materio, StyleRow, Studio MINE (Allmine)
Overview:
These platforms blend project management with product sourcing and procurement, some with unique features like floor plan mapping or shoppable experiences.
- Strengths:
- Streamline sourcing and procurement
- Visual coordination tools
- Considerations:
- Newer platforms with evolving features
- May be more than needed for simple projects
General Project Management Tools
Asana, ClickUp, Basecamp, and Others
Overview:
General-purpose project management tools are popular for their flexibility and familiar interfaces. Designers often use them alongside other apps for creative or financial tasks.
- Strengths:
- Adaptable
- Affordable
- Strong for task and team management
- Considerations:
- Lack design-specific features (e.g., product libraries, client portals)
- Often require supplemental tools for a complete workflow
Quick Feature Comparison
| Platform | Accounting | Visual Tools | Client Portal | Product Library | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Studio Designer | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Large firms, financial focus |
| Design Manager | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Established firms |
| Mydoma Studio | No* | Yes | Yes | Yes | Small/mid-size, e-design |
| Ivy/Houzz Pro | No* | Yes | Yes | Yes | Marketing, sourcing |
| DesignFiles | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Solo/small, visual focus |
| Programa | No* | No | Yes | Yes | Simple, efficient management |
| Materio | No* | No | Yes | Yes | Design-build, renovations |
| StyleRow | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Sourcing, boutique firms |
| Studio MINE | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Sourcing, model homes |
*Integrates with QuickBooks or similar for accounting.
Conclusion
There is no one-size-fits-all project management solution for interior designers. The best choice depends on your firm’s size, workflow, and priorities:
- For robust accounting and financial oversight: Studio Designer or Design Manager are strong candidates.
- For visual presentations and client experience: Mydoma Studio and DesignFiles stand out.
- For streamlined, modern project management: Programa offers a clean, efficient option, especially for small teams and those seeking simplicity.
- For those who want sourcing and procurement built in: Consider Materio, StyleRow, or Studio MINE.
- For flexible, general task management: Asana, ClickUp, and similar tools remain popular.
Evaluate your needs, take advantage of free trials, and choose the platform that best aligns with your business goals and client experience.
Note: Features and pricing are subject to change; always check each provider’s website for the latest details.