# 97 | Managing Change in the Interior Design Industry with Maggie Griffin

Interior design Business2-Establishing3-Scaling

Oct 24

"We are not the right fit for everyone, and I think it took me a long time to be able to say that. I think that takes it takes courage, it takes experience and time to be okay with that. " - Maggie Griffin

In today's episode, I sat down with Maggie Griffin of Maggie Griffin Design, a full-service residential interior design firm in Gainesville, Georgia. Maggie is known for her modern Southern Living style with spaces that are freshly classic and comfortable for everyday life. We share about the changes we've seen in the design industry since the pandemic, especially regarding lead times and project costs. We also talk about managing client expectations from those who might be looking for what Maggie calls a "move that bus moment" and how she can educate clients on what to expect without scaring them off.

Social Media in the Interior Design Industry

Social media has had a significant impact on the interior design industry more recently and platforms like Instagram and Pinterest have changed the way designers share their work. With this influx of information out there, design trends have evolved including the rise of modern Southern Living style and the importance of classic, comfortable spaces. More clients come to the table with a set idea of what they want a space to look like and what pieces they may want to invest in. It is important to be adaptable to changing client needs as social media continue to shape design trends.

Setting Client Expectations

When vetting clients that you want to work with as an interior designer, it can be a challenge to set realistic expectations about project timelines and costs. This is why it is so important have solid communication, especially when dealing with clients who have limited design experience. In some cases, this may include declining projects that are not a good fit and being open to referring business to other designers.

Challenges in the Interior Design Industry

One of the larger challenges in the interior design industry today is that starting during the pandemic but continuing into today project timelines and costs have gotten longer. Setting client expectations ahead of time for these potential delays and longer project timelines is key. Between project timelines and the social media influence on interior design, being adaptable, honest, and having the ability to communicate strongly is imperative to building a successful interior design firm.

Overall, the interior design space is much more accessible through social media and interior designer's online presence which is helpful in building clientele who have a strong sense of what they may be looking for, but can also be a challenge when communicating various timelines and costs that come with a certain style, signature piece, or art/furniture.

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