17. Sustainable Design, Systems & Profit: Business Lessons for Interior Designers with Rebecca Hay — Design with Impact

Episode 17: Sustainable Design, Systems & Profit: Business Lessons for Interior Designers with Rebecca Hay

Description:

What does it really take to build an interior design business that is both profitable and sustainable?

In this episode of Design with Impact, I’m joined by Rebecca Hay, an interior designer, international speaker, business mentor, and founder of Designers Room. Rebecca built her interior design firm, Rebecca Hay Designs, into a seven-figure business before transitioning her focus to coaching and mentoring other interior designers.

Rebecca and I talk about something that doesn't get nearly enough attention in the design industry: the connection between strong business systems and sustainable design.

We explore how having the right processes in place can give designers more freedom to make thoughtful material choices, research sustainable suppliers, manage waste, and create better client experiences—without sacrificing profitability.

From pricing your services and working with vintage and antique pieces to talking to contractors about waste management, this conversation is packed with practical advice for interior designers who want to build a business that works better—for themselves, their clients, and the planet.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Why systems and structure can actually create more freedom and creativity in your interior design business
The three foundational systems every full-service interior design business needs
Why a strong supplier network can help your team make more sustainable sourcing decisions
How to balance sustainability, quality, durability, and profitability when specifying products
Why designers need to understand their costs and price their services for profit
How strong business systems can free up time for sustainable research and better design decisions
How the next generation of designers may approach sustainability, technology, and business differently
Rebecca's advice for designers who want to build a profitable business while creating more sustainable, meaningful spaces

Connect with Rebecca Hay:

Website: www.rebeccahay.com

Instagram: @rebeccahaydesigns

Podcast: Resilient by Design

Workshops:

Rebecca offers workshops for interior designers, visit www.rebeccahay.com for upcoming workshops and resources.

Montreal Waste Management Companies:

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