What is it like working with an online interior designer?

For a long time, hiring an interior designer felt like something only a small group of people could afford. It often came with high fees, lots of meetings, and the sense that you had to hand everything over.

If you’ve never worked with an interior designer before, doing it online can feel like a bit of an unknown. Many people assume it’s either very hands-off, or that it can’t possibly feel personal without home visits and meetings. In this article I’ll describe what it’s actually like when you work with me as an online interior designer.

Why use an online interior designer?

Working online means you can get professional guidance without spending thousands of pounds per room. Because everything is delivered digitally and there are no home visits or ongoing project management, it costs far less than traditional interior design, while still giving you a clear plan and expert direction.

Online interior design saves you time. Instead of spending evenings and weekends trying to work out layouts or scrolling through endless options, your designer helps plan how the space should work first. Furniture placement, layout, lighting, colours, and finishes are all considered with your space, budget, and lifestyle in mind, then presented clearly so you can see how everything fits together.

This approach saves money too. Having a proper plan helps avoid costly mistakes and impulse purchases that don’t quite work once they arrive. You know what to buy, where to buy it, and roughly how much it will cost before you commit.

Perhaps most importantly, online interior design gives you momentum and confidence. Once you can see the design as a whole, decisions feel easier and the project finally starts moving. For many people, it’s the sweet spot between doing it all yourself and handing everything over completely.

How much does an online interior designer cost?

Online interior design is usually priced as a fixed package rather than an open-ended hourly service. This makes it a more affordable option.

I offer a small number of clearly defined packages, each designed around different levels of support and different types of projects. This might range from help with layout and concept design, through to more detailed plans and shopping lists.

Because pricing is fixed, you know the cost upfront and can decide whether it fits your budget before you begin. There’s no clock running in the background, and no pressure to rush decisions to keep fees down.

Will you understand my style if we never meet?

The truth is that understanding someone’s style has very little to do with standing in their living room. It comes from asking the right questions, understanding how you live, and really listening to what you say you love and what you don’t.

You don’t need to know design terms or have a clear vision. My job is to join the dots, even if all you can tell me is that something feels “too cold” or “a bit flat”.

At the start of the project, you’ll complete a questionnaire that helps me understand your needs. Depending on the package, we may also have a consultation call to dig into the details.

What does the process look like?

Whether you’re working on a living room, bedroom, home office, kitchen, open-plan space or a whole home design, the approach is the same. To get started, you’ll share photos, measurements, and a bit about how you use the space. I guide you through exactly what’s needed, so you’re not left guessing.

From there, depending on the package you choose, I create mood boards, 3D visualisations, layout plans, and shopping lists to share for your feedback.

Once the design is complete, you’re in charge of installation. You can follow the designs exactly, adapt parts of it, or take things slowly over time as budget and time allow.

How many changes can I request?

Design is collaborative, and feedback is a normal part of the process.

I include a set number of revisions so we can refine the design together. Most clients only need small tweaks once they see everything laid out clearly, but there’s always room to adjust.

How do shopping lists work?

You’ll receive a clear shopping list with products, prices, and links, chosen to suit your space and budget, so you know exactly what to buy and where to find it.

I don’t make money when you purchase items on the list, and you’re never required to buy everything at once, or at all. The list is there to guide you, not pressure you.

Will you visit my home?

No. If you choose an online interior design package, everything is done remotely.

While that might sound like a drawback at first, it’s actually what makes the process so flexible. You can take part from anywhere, and nothing relies on coordinating diaries or travel.

With clear photos, measurements, and good communication, there’s very little that can’t be done online.

How long does it take?

Most online design projects take a few weeks from start to finish.

The exact timeline depends on the size of the space and how quickly decisions are made, but it’s generally much faster than traditional interior design.

You can also implement the design at your own pace afterwards.

What budget do I need?

There isn’t a single answer to this, as it depends on the scope of the work. You might be planning to paint a room, make internal changes, or simply update the furniture and décor. Each approach comes with very different costs.

My design fees are fixed, so once that’s covered, your budget goes directly into your project. There’s no percentage-based fee and no pressure to spend more than you’re comfortable with.

I work with the budget you have and help you decide where it’s worth spending a little more, and where it makes sense to save. Being open about your budget from the start means the design stays realistic and achievable, rather than aspirational but out of reach.

Smaller budgets are not a problem. They often require more creative thinking and thoughtful choices. With material and furniture costs rising in recent years, having a clear plan matters more than ever.

Knowing where to look, what’s worth investing in, and which alternatives will still work makes a real difference. Because I’m independent, I can source from anywhere, focusing on value rather than pushing particular brands.

What happens after the design is finished?

Once the design is delivered, you’re not suddenly on your own.

I’m there to answer questions as you start ordering and putting the space together. Most clients take their time with this part, and that’s completely fine.

Is online interior design right for you?

Online interior design works best if you like a clear plan but want the freedom to implement it in your own time.

It may not be the right fit if you want someone on site managing trades or making decisions for you, but for many people, it offers exactly the right balance of support and control.