How To Start an Interior Design Business in the UK - Amanda’s Story

Starting an interior design business can feel both exciting and overwhelming. From finding your first clients to managing projects, suppliers and finances, there’s a lot to consider alongside the creative work.

At Decorbuddi, we offer a different way to build your own interior design business - combining independence with the support of an experienced team.

In this insight, we speak to Amanda Delaney, one of our designers and an established interior designer based in Godalming, Surrey, about her journey, her day-to-day role, and how she has built a successful, flexible interior design business with Decorbuddi.

What were you doing before you joined Decorbuddi?

After university, I began my career as a buyer for a large food company in Bristol, followed by a role with a health food brand. That’s where my love for sourcing and curating really developed - something that now plays a big role in my interior design work.

Alongside this, I’ve always worked in creative industries. I spent several years in corporate and brand marketing, setting up my own marketing consultancy before having children.

Interiors were always a passion. I loved refurbishing my own homes, which gradually evolved into something more. I went on to launch a home and accessories business, hosting seasonal sales events, before completing my interior design training at KLC in Chelsea Harbour.

Looking back, moving towards starting my own interior design business felt like a natural progression.

Surrey Interior Design Project by Amanda Delaney

What attracted you to Decorbuddi when starting your interior design business?

I loved the idea of being part of a growing business, but what really stood out was the balance - flexibility, independence and support.

I’ve always seen myself as a team player, and throughout my career I’ve enjoyed working alongside creative and commercial teams. When I completed my training, I wasn’t entirely sure how I’d feel working completely on my own.

Through a networking group, I heard about Decorbuddi - and it immediately clicked. The idea of building my own interior design business, while still being part of a collaborative team, really appealed.

Decorbuddi provided the business support I needed, while allowing me to retain my own identity with clients. It also enabled me to focus on growing my client base locally, particularly as an interior designer in Surrey, where word of mouth has been invaluable.

Why did you choose to build your interior design business with Decorbuddi rather than on your own?

I already had experienced both working in large companies and running my own business and so I had a clear understanding of what suited me.

In larger organisations, particularly at the start of my career, I really valued the structure, training and support of being part of a team. There was always someone to share ideas with, and I learnt a huge amount from that environment.

Running your own business, on the other hand, is incredibly rewarding and energising, but it can also feel quite isolating at times. I’m someone who really enjoys sharing ideas and experiences, and I feel more motivated and inspired when I’m part of something collaborative.

That’s ultimately why I chose to build my interior design business with Decorbuddi rather than on my own. It offers the best of both worlds. I have the support of a team, ongoing training and business infrastructure behind me, while still having full autonomy over my projects, my creativity and my client relationships.

I can run my own Decorbuddi business in a way that suits my lifestyle, with the flexibility to manage my time, work remotely when needed, and focus on the projects I enjoy most, all while knowing that support is there when I need it.

Surrey Renovation Project by Amanda Delaney

How would you describe your day to day role now?

No two days are the same - which is one of the things I love most. Some days I’m visiting clients or meeting with contractors on site. Others are spent sourcing products, visiting showrooms, or gathering samples.

I might be preparing floorplans and elevations, writing specifications, or pulling together moodboards - one of my favourite parts of the process, as it’s often the first thing the client sees.

It’s a real mix of creative and practical work.

How do you balance the creative and commercial aspects?

The creative side is what draws most people into interior design, but you quickly realise how important organisation, project management and commercial awareness are.

The flexibility of running my own Decorbuddi business allows me to create space for both. I often find my best ideas come when I’m out walking, exercising or travelling.

From a commercial perspective, I always consider the client’s budget from the outset. It’s essential that designs are not just beautiful, but achievable.

What do you enjoy most about being part of Decorbuddi?

Without a doubt, it’s the team.

There’s a constant sharing of ideas, knowledge and experience. There are times when you come across a situation that you haven’t experienced before, but I can guarantee one of the team will have the answer. The team are a fountain of creativity, knowledge and experience which allows you to problem solve and find perfect solutions for your clients.

I love that we all have different life experiences and varied career journeys. This eclectic mix allows us to think outside of the box to create amazing designs that are both practical and in tune with our clients brief.

What kind of support do you receive?

Decorbuddi HQ is always on hand whenever I need. In no particular order:

Marketing & branding are handled centrally, which is a big win. It allows me to focus on my clients rather than managing social media or trying to generate new business myself.

Purchasing & accounts are also taken care of. With over 500 trade agreements in place, we have the flexibility to source from the best suppliers for our clients and share those benefits with them - without having to negotiate everything individually. I also think it gives clients real confidence knowing there’s a dedicated accounts team behind the scenes.

New client leads are invaluable. It’s amazing to receive introductions to clients who have been carefully matched to my skills and experience. It makes the whole process easier and enjoyable for everyone involved.

Flexibility is key. When I decided to focus more locally on being an interior designer in Surrey rather than London, head office fully supported that decision. Now, most of the opportunities I receive are close to home in Surrey or within easy reach in nearby Sussex and Hampshire.

Ongoing communication and training, including weekly team meetings, newsletters, showroom visits and events, keep us informed, inspired and connected.

This support allows me to focus on what I love - designing - while knowing they have the business side covered.

What is it like for your clients to work with you?

I think it is a huge benefit to clients to know that not only do they have my creativity and experience working on their project but also the collective knowledge of the whole team. They also know that I’m fully focused on their project, without the distraction of managing every aspect of a business behind the scenes.

Clients really enjoy being part of the process and the Decorbuddi collaborative approach. They feel empowered in the decisions involved in designing their rooms - it’s a very personal experience for them.

They also really value the flexibility we offer - whether that’s working on an hourly or bespoke basis - and the transparency in how we structure and communicate our services.

I’ve completed several projects in Surrey using bundles of hours following an initial consultation. Many of my clients have beautiful homes, but are looking for an experienced eye to guide them in the right direction - helping them refine ideas, prioritise purchases, and make confident decisions on layout and design (and often narrowing down those endless Pinterest searches!). Not every project has to be a “start from scratch” complete house renovation.

What is it like working locally in Surrey?

As an interior designer in Surrey and Sussex, I work across a wide range of properties - from period homes to new builds and contemporary renovations. Every project is different, which keeps things interesting.

Clients value working with someone local. There’s an immediate connection - shared knowledge of the area, access to trusted trades, and the ability to visit local showrooms as well as those in London.

For me, it means stronger relationships with clients and contractors, more opportunities through word-of-mouth referrals as my name has become known in the area and more efficiency as I travel less.

Designed by Amanda Delaney

What has surprised you most about working this way?

I think it’s the number and diversity of projects I’ve been involved in. Clients come to Decorbuddi because they’re drawn to the individuality of our work.

Most designers naturally develop a recognisable aesthetic, but working this way gives me the opportunity to design across a variety of styles - which is far more exciting. It keeps things fresh, challenging and incredibly rewarding.

It also means clients benefit from more original ideas and a completely tailored approach. I’m constantly learning and evolving as a designer.

Do you have a project you’re particularly proud of?

A fully remote project for a Middle Eastern client renovating a property in Wimbledon stands out. Starting during COVID, it was a turnkey project that required me to design every detail so everything would be ready for when the client arrived in the UK.

We built a strong relationship entirely remotely, and it was incredibly rewarding to finally meet on site once the project was complete. I’ve since gone on to work with other members of the family, which has been a real privilege and something I’ve really enjoyed.

Has being a Decorbuddi designer changed your lifestyle?

It’s given me focus, flexibility and a much better work-life balance.

I started this journey when my children went to university, which allowed me to fully commit. It’s also given me the freedom to travel, find inspiration - and redesign my own home at the same time!

Most importantly, it allows me to adapt when life changes.

What would you say to someone looking to start an interior design business?

If you’re friendly, enjoy working as part of a team and love collaboration - but still want to maintain your individuality as a designer - this is a really great way to do it.

What’s next for you?

Travel continues to be a huge source of inspiration for me. I’d love to take on more international projects, and I’m currently hoping to design the interior of an apartment within a ski chalet in the French Alps later this year.

Watch this space!

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to get in touch. We would love to hear from you.

Project Photography: KT1 Photography // Personal Photography: Social Stock Photography