Interior design tools are everywhere but if you’re just starting and you want to show your client a mock-up of your thoughts then where should you begin?

I’ve compiled a quick list of 10 interior design apps and software that you will be able to virtually pick up and use instantly without a large learning curve.

It doesn’t matter if the client is looking to remodel their kitchen or just restyle their living space. These tools can communicate your design ideas quickly with a high level of precision with high-quality room design software.

Take a look at some of my best software picks for interior designers…

1. Cedreo

Cedreo is an online 3D home design platform used by professional home builders, remodelers and interior designers to create 2D and 3D floor plans, as well as interior and exterior renderings.

The software is intuitive and easy to use, and helps users quickly create photorealistic interior designs using its library of 7,000+ customizable pieces of 3D furniture, materials and decorations.

Designers can quickly show prospective clients exactly what their finished project will look like, and as a result, close more design contracts in less time.

Before commencing any interior design project, it’s important that your clients understand how you work and what to expect from your services. And, this is where a welcome packet comes in.

In this guide, I’m going to cover:

• What is a client welcome packet?
• What to include in a client welcome packet
• How to get clients to actually read your welcome packet

Read on to find out how a simple welcome packet can help streamline your new client onboarding process and give you more time to focus on what you love: designing dream spaces.

What is a client welcome packet?

A welcome packet sets the tone for your client: interior designer relationships and helps ensure the smooth running of design projects. It should include everything clients need to know when working with you, from how your interior design process works to whether it’s okay to text you at midnight.

Do you start every interior design project with a client questionnaire, or do you try to remember everything discussed in your initial consultation?

Was it mirrored furniture they hated? Or did they say that was their favourite? And, what was their stance on the colour green?

Creating dream spaces for your clients means listening to what they want and using your special eye for design to pull it all together. And, the best way to really understand their needs and desires is with a new client questionnaire.

In this article, I’m going to explore the following:

• What is a client questionnaire?
• Why is an initial client questionnaire important?
• What questions to include in your client questionnaire
• Insights from experienced interior designers

If you’re tired of wasting time trying to figure out what exactly your clients want, keep reading.

What is an interior design client questionnaire?

An interior design questionnaire is as simple as it sounds. It’s a list of questions you ask new clients before you begin working on a project with them. It’s your chance to get to know your potential client’s interior design preferences and align your ideas, so you’re on the same page from the get-go. Without having a client questionnaire to refer back to, you may end up creating something your client is unhappy with. It’s also a great way to sift out any clients that don’t align with your way of working or your interior design style.

As an interior designer, being able to show your previous work is one of the best ways to get new clients.

Your portfolio will demonstrate your skills as an interior designer, show you style and can even set you apart from potential competitors.

You cannot underestimate the need for a professional interior design portfolio. By inviting potential clients to view the spaces you’ve created, allowing them to take in the lighting, textures, scale, ambience and style.

This lets potential clients immerse themselves in your work, delving deep into your designs from the comfort of their homes.

Why You Need An Interior Design Portfolio

As an interior designer, regardless of the specific niche, a portfolio is an absolute must. Simply put, the more creative and impressive your portfolio is, the higher your chances of finding new clients.

You can create an online or printed portfolio however, an online one is much easier to change and update. Ideally, you’ll have an always updated online portfolio and also a printed version which you occasionally update to keep it fresh. Most clients will just want your online portfolio, but there will always be a few clients that will love getting their hands on a hard copy.

Keeping great relationships between your interior design practice and clients is crucial to getting great testimonials to be used within your portfolio.

How To Create Your Own Interior Design Portfolio

There are two core ways to create an interior design portfolio:

• An online portfolio
• A printed design portfolio presentation