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The Design Dialogues PodcastAuthor: Beth Bieske
The Design Dialogues Podcast is your go to interior design podcast. Through our conversations we will be inspired and educated so that you can build a succesful interior design studio. Language: en Genres: Arts, Business, Design, Entrepreneurship Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it Trailer: |
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104 When to Move from Home Office to Studio Space
Episode 104
Wednesday, 30 April, 2025
In this episode, I tackle one of the biggest decisions you'll face as your design business grows: when to move out of your home office and into a dedicated studio space. Learn the key signals that it's time to make the move, how to budget for this significant investment, and why a studio space can transform both client perception and team dynamics.Hope you enjoy the episodeBeth xxEpisode NotesThe Home Office Reality CheckWorking from home has its perks—comfy clothes, coffee on hand, and efficiency. But there comes a point where your dining table setup or spare bedroom studio no longer supports the business you're building.Let's be honest, working from home has its perks. You're in comfy clothes, coffee is always on hand, and it can feel incredibly efficient. Until it isn't.Signs you might be outgrowing your home office include:• Constantly rearranging or working around home life• Hesitating to host client meetings in your space• Needing to hire team members with nowhere to put them• Wanting to create a more professional brand experienceThe Emotional ShiftMoving to a studio space isn't just a logistical decision—it's an identity shift.You're not just moving locations, you're stepping into a new identity as a business owner. One who is investing in space, presence and scale.This transition brings up big questions around confidence, money, team structure, and what kind of studio you're creating.The Financial ConsiderationsStudio space isn't cheap, and it's not just rent you need to consider:• Internet and utilities• Furniture and fit-out costs• Insurance and security• Cleaning and maintenanceI recommend looking at this decision through the lens of revenue per square meter: What will this space help you generate? Could it allow you to bring on another team member, raise your fees, or streamline your workflow so you take on more projects with less stress?Also consider the tax implications—office expenses are deductible, and separating your business from personal life can help with tax clarity.The Perception FactorA studio space tells clients, suppliers, and collaborators that you're established, trustworthy, and in it for the long game.It becomes part of your brand story. Clients are walking into your curated environment. They're experiencing your process before you even open your mouth and that elevates everything—your confidence, your pricing, and your position in the market.Team Dynamics and Studio CultureIf you're planning to grow your team, having a studio can be a game-changer:• Creates clear boundaries between work and home• Allows for real-time collaboration• Builds a studio culture where people feel aligned with your values• Attracts talent who want to be part of something biggerPerhaps most importantly, it creates a studio culture. One where people feel proud to come in, aligned with your values, and invested in the long-term success of your business.Practical Tips for Making the LeapReady to consider a studio space? Here's some practical tips:• Start small—you don't need a huge space in the trendiest suburb• Think about client flow from parking to signage to meeting space• Do a cost-benefit review with your accountant• Get support from designers who've made this transition beforeA small, well-located, beautifully styled space can be incredibly impactful.This episode is essential for interior designers who are feeling the limitations of their home office and considering the next step in their business growth. Whether you're ready to make the move now or planning for the future, these insights will help you make a confident, informed decision. Want to work together? Here are the ways I can help you in your business. 1.Sign up to our MAILING LIST where each month you will receive helpful business tips straight to your inbox 2. Start a HEALTH CHECK today. We will work together for 8 weeks and improve your systems and processes.I only have 8 spots available every month. 3. Start my course THE PROCESS so you know exactly what to do when in your interior design studio. 4. Have a look at THE RESOURCE STOCKROOM - this is where you will find our short courses and free resources to help you run a better interior design studio 5. Want to use our tool MTTD in your studio? Start your FREE 30 DAY TRIAL today.
