As a professional designer, you know that offering virtual design services (a.k.a. eDesign services) is a great way to attract more clients. Not only does it allow you to work with clients all over the world; it also allows you to showcase your skills and talent, as well as increase your income. So, we’re here to reveal the 8 best virtual design services that YOU should offer your clients!
Additionally, we’ll also provide tips on how to get started in the eDesign industry, as well as answer some frequently asked questions. On that note, let’s get to it!
Still on the fence about whether your business should offer virtual design services? Here are 8 ways they’ll benefit you and your clients!
The 8 Best Virtual Design Services To Offer Clients
- Interior decorating
- Home staging
- Professional organizing
- Color consulting
- Feng Shui design
- Floral design
- Landscape design
- Aging in Place design
1. Interior Decorating
What Is Interior Decorating?
Interior decorating is the art and science of enhancing the interior of a building to achieve a healthier and more aesthetically pleasing environment for the people who use the space. Furthermore, an interior decorator is someone who plans, researches, coordinates, and manages such projects.
Interior decorating is a multifaceted profession that includes conceptual development, space planning, color scheme coordination, and furnishings sourcing. To be a successful interior decorator, one must have excellent communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
What Services Do Interior Decorators Provide?
Interior decorators provide a variety of services to their clients, which can include:
- Space planning
- Furniture selection
- Color consulting
- Custom window treatments
- Wall coverings
- Flooring
- Lighting
- Artwork and accessories
- Furnishings sourcing
How Much Do Interior Decorators Charge?
Interior decorators typically charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $50 to $250 per hour. On the other hand, some interior decorators also charge a flat fee or a commission. This is based on a percentage of the total project cost.
Interior Decorator Salary
- United States: Between approx. $20,500 USD to $75,500 USD per year (Source: ZipRecruiter)
- Canada: Between approx. $31,525 CAD to $50,700 CAD per year (Source: Talent.com)
- United Kingdom: Between approx. £24,000 GBP to £34,000 GBP per year (Source: Payscale)
- Australia: Between approx. $43,000 AUD to $80,000 AUD per year (Source: Payscale)
Why Should You Offer Virtual Interior Decorating Services?
As an interior decorator, you can offer your clients a variety of services that will help them improve their homes. Not only will you be able to help them select the right furniture and accessories; you’ll also be able to give them advice on color schemes, flooring, lighting, and more.
Furthermore, by offering virtual interior decorating services, you’ll be able to reach a wider range of clients. This is because you’re not limited by location. So, if you have clients in different parts of the world, you can still work with them without having to travel.
How To Provide Virtual Interior Decorating Services
Now that you know all about interior decorating and why it’s a great virtual design service to offer clients, let’s take a look at how you can provide this service online.
When working with clients virtually, the first thing you’ll need to do is get an idea of their style and what they’re looking for. You can do this by asking them to fill out a questionnaire or by having a client consultation via video or phone call.
Once you have an idea of your client’s style and what they’re looking for, you’ll be able to start putting together a design plan. This plan will include everything from furniture and accessories to color schemes and flooring.
Once you have the design plan, the next step is to start sourcing the products. You can do this by shopping online or by visiting stores in person.
Once you’ve sourced all of the products, it’s time to put the design together. This is where you’ll take all of the elements from the design plan and put them together in a way that looks good and functions well.
Finally, once the design is complete, you’ll need to take photos or videos of the space and send them to your client. This will allow them to see the final product and give you their feedback.
Become a certified International Design and Decorating Professional (IDDP) in as little as 3-6 months with QC Design School‘s self-paced, online Interior Decorating Course!
2. Home Staging
What Is Home Staging?
Home staging is the process of preparing a house for sale. This can involve anything from decluttering and deep cleaning to rearranging furniture and adding accessories. The goal of home staging is to make a house look its best so that it will sell quickly and for the highest possible price.
What Services Do Home Stagers Provide?
Home stagers typically provide the following services:
- Home staging consultation
- Decluttering
- Deep cleaning
- Furniture rental
- Accessories rental
- Arranging furniture
- Hanging artwork
How Much Do Home Stagers Charge?
Home stagers typically charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $50 to $250 per hour. Additionally, some home stagers also charge a flat fee or a commission. This is based on a percentage of the total project cost.
Home Stager Salary
- United States: Between approx. $23,650 USD to $109,610 USD per year (Source: Comparably)
- Canada: Between approx. $32,175 CAD to $60,239 CAD per year (Source: Talent.com)
- United Kingdom: Between approx. £49,000 GBP to £80,500 GBP per year (Source: The Burning Of Rome)
- Australia: Between approx. $55,000 AUD to $65,000 AUD per year for Property Stylists AUD (Source: Jora)
Why Should You Offer Virtual Home Staging Services?
Home staging is a great virtual design service to offer for a few reasons. First, it’s a service that can be done entirely online. This means that you won’t have to worry about traveling to meet with clients or working in their homes.
Additionally, home staging is a service that can be done relatively quickly. So, if you have clients who are looking to sell their home fast, home staging is a great option. Finally, home staging is a service that doesn’t require a lot of expensive materials or equipment. As such, it’s a relatively low-cost service to provide.
How To Provide Virtual Home Staging Services
The first step in providing virtual home staging services is to consult with your client. This can be done via phone, video chat, or in person (if you live in the same city/town as your client).
During the consultation, you’ll want to get an idea of the style of their home, what they’re looking to achieve, and what their budget is. Once you have this information, you’ll be able to put together a proposal for the project.
If your client decides to move forward with the project, the next step is to declutter and deep clean their home. This can be done virtually by giving your client a list of things that need to be done. Alternatively, you can do it in person if you live close by.
After the home is decluttered and cleaned, it’s time to start working on the design. This can be done by rearranging furniture, hanging artwork, and adding accessories. If your client doesn’t have all of the necessary items, you can provide them with a list of things that they need to buy or rent.
Finally, once the design is complete, you’ll need to take photos or videos of the space and send them to your client. This will allow them to see the final product and give you their feedback.
Home staging is a great way to help your clients sell their homes quickly and for the highest possible price. By offering virtual home staging services, you can provide this service to clients without having to worry about traveling or working in their homes. Plus, as we already mentioned, home staging is a relatively quick and low-cost service to provide!
Check out QC Design School’s online Home Staging Course to learn about how you can become an International Staging and Redesign Professional (ISRP) in as little as 12 short weeks!
3. Professional Organizing
What Is Professional Organizing?
Professional organizing is the process of helping people to organize their homes and offices. This can involve anything from decluttering and deep cleaning to arranging furniture and hanging artwork.
Check out this helpful blog article to learn more about the role and responsibilities of a professional organizer.
What Services Do Professional Organizers Provide?
Professional organizers typically provide the following services:
- Decluttering and deep cleaning
- Arranging furniture and hanging artwork
- Helping to choose storage solutions
- Packing and unpacking for moves
- Creating systems for organizing paperwork, belongings, etc.
How Much Do Professional Organizers Charge?
Professional organizers typically charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $50-$100/hour. Some organizers also charge a flat fee for specific projects, such as packing and unpacking for a move.
Professional Organizer Salary
- United States: Between approx. $37,800 USD to $62,200 USD per year (Source: Salary.com)
- Canada: Between approx. $31,000 CAD to $136,000 CAD per year (Source: Payscale)
- United Kingdom: Between approx. £19,750 GBP to £24,000 GBP per year (Source: Salary Expert)
- New Zealand: Between approx. $44,095 NZD to $47,926 NZD per year (Source: Salary Expert)
- Australia: Between approx. $40,172 AUD to $56,472 AUD per year for Property Stylists (Source: Salary Expert)
Why Should You Offer Virtual Professional Organizing Services?
There are a few reasons why you should offer virtual professional organizing services. First, it’s a service that can be done entirely online. This means that you won’t have to worry about traveling to meet with clients or working in their homes.
Additionally, professional organizing is a service that can be done relatively quickly. So, if you have clients who are looking to get their home or office organized fast, this is a great option for them.
Plus, as we mentioned above, professional organizing is a service that can be charged by the hour. This means that you can make a decent hourly rate without having to commit to a long-term project.
How To Provide Virtual Professional Organizing Services
Once a client has reached out to you (or you to them), the first step is to schedule a consultation. This can be done over the phone, via video chat, or through email. During the consultation, you’ll want to discuss the client’s goals for their space and get an idea of what needs to be done.
After the consultation, you’ll put together a plan of action and send it to the client. This plan will include a timeline, budget, and list of recommended products and services. Once the client has approved the plan, you can begin working together!
Since you won’t be physically going into the client’s home, you’ll want to make sure that you’re clear about what needs to be done. This means sending photos, videos, or even a detailed written description of the project.
Additionally, you’ll want to set up regular check-ins with the client. This will help to ensure that both you and the client are happy with the work getting done and that the project is on track.
Interested in adding virtual professional organizing services to your home design business? Become an Advanced International Organizing Professional (AIOP) with QC Design School’s self-paced, online Professional Organizing Course!
4. Color Consulting
What Is Color Consulting?
Color consulting is the process of helping clients choose colors for their home or office. This can include everything from paint colors to furniture and accessories. As a color consultant, you’ll use your knowledge of color theory to help clients create a space that they love.
What Services Do Color Consultants Provide?
Color consultants typically provide the following services:
- Paint color selection
- Furniture and accessory selection
- Window treatment selection
- Wallcovering selection
How Much Do Color Consultants Charge?
Color consultants typically charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $50-$100/hour. Some consultants also charge a flat fee for specific projects, such as choosing paint colors for an entire home.
Color Consultant Salary
- United States: Between approx. $20,500 USD to $103,000 USD per year (Source: ZipRecruiter)
- Canada: Between approx. $24,000 CAD to $85,000 CAD per year (Source: Glassdoor)
- United Kingdom: Between approx. £25,000 GBP to £78,000 GBP per year (Source: Glassdoor)
- New Zealand: Between approx. $62,000 NZD to $75,000 NZD per year (Source: Glassdoor)
- Australia: Between approx. $55,000 AUD to $70,000 AUD (Source: Jora)
Why Should You Offer Virtual Color Consulting Services?
There are a few reasons why you should offer virtual color consulting services. First, it’s a service that can be done entirely online. This means that you won’t have to worry about traveling to meet with clients or working in their homes.
Additionally, color consulting is a service that can be done relatively quickly. So, if you have clients who are looking to get their home or office organized fast, this is a great option for them.
Plus, as we mentioned above, color consulting is a service that can be charged by the hour. This means that you can make a decent hourly rate without having to commit to a long-term project.
How To Provide Virtual Color Consulting Services
The first step to providing virtual color consulting services is to conduct the client consultation. This can be done over the phone, via video chat, or through email. During the consultation, you’ll want to discuss the client’s goals for their space and get an idea of what needs to be done.
After the consultation, you’ll put together a plan of action and send it to the client. This plan will include a timeline, budget, and list of recommended products and services for your client to secure. Once the client has approved the plan, you can begin working together!
Since you’ll be doing this project remotely, you’ll need to set up regular check-ins with the client. This will help to ensure that both you and the client are happy with the work getting done and that the project is on track.
Furthermore, you’ll want to make sure that you’re clear about what needs to be done. This means sending photos, videos, or even a detailed written description of the project. Your client can send you photos and/or videos throughout the process so you can see the work getting done. If any changes need to be made or recommendations offered, you can make them at this time.
Become an International Color Consulting Professional (ICCP) in as little as 3 months with QC Design School’s online Color Consultant Course!
5. Feng Shui Design
What Is Feng Shui Design?
Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese practice that focuses on the placement of objects in a space to encourage positive energy flow. Feng Shui design is the process of using this practice to create a harmonious and balanced environment.
Learn all about Feng Shui in this awesome Beginner’s Guide!
What Services Do Feng Shui Designers Provide?
Feng Shui designers typically provide the following services:
- Home consultations
- Interior decorating
- Room-by-room analysis
- Space clearing
- Cure recommendations
How Much Do Feng Shui Designers Charge?
Feng Shui designers typically charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $75-$200/hour. Some consultants also charge a flat fee for specific projects, such as designing an entire home.
Feng Shui Designer Salary
- United States: Approx. $67,778 USD per year for entry-level Feng Shui consultants based on 1-3 years’ experience (Source: Salary Expert)
- Canada: Approx. $68,464 CAD per year for entry-level Feng Shui consultants based on 1-3 years’ experience (Source: Salary Expert)
- United Kingdom: Approx. £35,959 per year for entry-level Feng Shui consultants based on 1-3 years’ experience (Source: Salary Expert)
- Australia: Approx. $82,457 AUD per year for entry-level Feng Shui consultants based on 1-3 years’ experience (Source: Salary Expert)
- New Zealand: Approx. $74,421 NZD per year for entry-level Feng Shui consultants based on 1-3 years’ experience (Source: Salary Expert)
Why Should You Offer Virtual Feng Shui Design Services?
Feng Shui is a great service to offer virtually because it doesn’t require you to be in the space to do your work. You can consult with clients over the phone or via video chat, and then provide them with a detailed plan of action. This plan can include a list of recommended cures, as well as suggestions for placement of furniture and other objects in the home.
Plus, Feng Shui design is a service that can be charged by the hour. This means that you can make a decent hourly rate without having to commit to a long-term project.
How To Provide Virtual Feng Shui Design Services
The first step to providing virtual Feng Shui design services is to conduct the client consultation. This can be done over the phone or via video chat. During the consultation, you’ll want to ask the client about their goals for the project, as well as any specific areas of concern.
After the consultation, you’ll put together a plan of action and send it to the client. This plan will include a timeline, budget, and list of recommended products and services for your client to secure. Once the client has approved the plan, you can begin working together!
Since you’ll be doing this project remotely, you’ll need to set up regular check-ins with the client. This will help to ensure that both you and the client are happy with the work getting done and that the project is on track.
Furthermore, you’ll want to make yourself available to answer any questions or concerns that the client may have throughout the project. This will help to build trust and keep the lines of communication open.
Enroll in QC Design School’s self-paced, online Feng Shui Design Course and become a globally-certified Advanced Feng Shui Design Professional (AFDP) in as little as 3-6 months!
6. Floral Design
What Is Floral Design?
Floral design is the art of creating arrangements and bouquets using fresh, dried, or silk flowers. Floral designers use their creativity and knowledge of plant care to choose the perfect blooms for each arrangement.
What Services Do Floral Designers Provide?
Floral designers typically provide the following services:
- Home decor
- Wedding consultations
- Event planning
- Flower care and maintenance
- Custom arrangements
How Much Do Floral Designers Charge?
Floral designers typically charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $50-$200/hour. Some designers also charge a flat fee for specific projects, such as designing an entire wedding or creating arrangements for an entire home staging project.
Floral Designer Salary
- United States: Between approx. $34,477 USD to $75,279 USD per year (Source: Salary.com)
- Canada: Between approx. $30,000 CAD to $56,000 CAD per year (Source: Glassdoor)
- United Kingdom: Between approx. £20,730 GBP to £34,057 GBP per year (Source: Salary Expert)
- New Zealand: Between approx. $44,095 NZD to $70,392 NZD per year for Florists (Source: Salary Expert)
- Australia: Between approx. $42,000 AUD to $68,000 AUD (Source: SalaryBand)
Why Should You Offer Virtual Floral Design Services?
Floral design is a great service to offer virtually because it doesn’t require you to be in the same space as your client. You can consult with clients over the phone or via video chat, and then provide them with a custom plan for their home or event.
Plus, floral design is a service that can be charged by the hour. This means that you can make a decent hourly rate without having to commit to a long-term project.
How To Provide Virtual Floral Design Services
Let’s say that you’re approached by a client who’s looking for virtual assistance in creating floral arrangements for their home. The first step is to conduct a consultation with the client. This can be done over the phone or via video chat.
During the consultation, you’ll want to ask the client about their goals for the project, as well as any specific areas of concern. After the consultation, you’ll put together a plan of action and send it to the client.
This plan will include a timeline, budget, and list of recommended products (such as flower recommendations) and services for your client to secure. Once the client has approved the plan, you can begin working together!
One such way you might work together could be through a video tutorial. During this, you might secure the same materials as your client and then physically walk them through the creation of their floral designs. Another way to work together would be by sending them photographs or videos of arrangements that you’ve created, along with a list of materials needed to recreate the look.
You’ll also need to provide them with upkeep and aftercare tips for their floral arrangements. This is an important part of the virtual design process, as it will help your client to keep their arrangements looking beautiful for longer!
No matter what method you choose, make sure that you’re providing clear and concise instructions so that your client can successfully create their own floral designs.
Like the idea of offering your clients virtual floral design services? Add an International Floral Design Professional (IFDP) designation + certification to your resume in as little as 12 weeks by taking QC Design School’s online Floral Design Course!
7. Landscape Design
What Is Landscape Design?
Landscape design is the process of creating outdoor spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. This can include anything from designing a new backyard patio to planning an entire park. Landscape designers typically have a background in horticulture, architecture, or civil engineering – although this is by no means a requirement.
If you’re not sure what the difference is between a landscape designer vs. a landscape architect, you can find this out in detail here!
What Services Do Landscape Designers Provide?
Landscape designers typically provide the following services:
- Site analysis
- Hardscape design
- Softscape design
- Plant selection and placement
- Lighting design
How Much Do Landscape Designers Charge?
Landscape designers typically charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $50-$200/hour. Some designers also charge a flat fee for specific projects, such as designing a new patio or garden.
Landscape Designer Salary
- United States: Between approx. $38,000 USD to $71,000 USD per year (Source: Payscale)
- Canada: Between approx. $39,000 CAD to $100,000 CAD per year (Source: Glassdoor)
- United Kingdom: Between approx. £20,000 GBP to £43,000 GBP per year (Source: Payscale)
- Australia: Between approx. $65,000 AUD to $80,000 AUD (Source: Seek)
Why You Should Offer Virtual Landscape Design Services?
Landscape design is another great service to offer virtually because it doesn’t necessarily require you to be on-site with your clients. This means that you can work with clients from anywhere in the world!
How To Provide Virtual Landscape Design Services
Say, for example, that you’re approached by a client who needs virtual assistance creating a beautiful garden space in their backyard. The first step would be to conduct a consultation with the client, during which you would discuss their goals for the project.
Once you have a clear understanding of what the client is looking for, you can begin putting together a plan of action. This might involve sending them photographs or videos of gardens that you’ve designed, along with a list of materials needed to recreate the look.
You might also choose to create a digital mood board to help your client visualize the finished product. You can also provide them with tips on plant selection and placement, as well as advice on how to care for their new garden.
From there, it’s simply a matter of staying in touch with your client and providing them with any support they need to successfully create their dream garden!
Become a certified International Landscape Design Professional (ILDP) with QC Design School’s online Landscape Design Course and start offering clients these virtual services in as little as 12 weeks!
8. Aging in Place Design
What Is Aging in Place Design?
Aging in place design is the process of making expert recommendations for homes and living spaces. As a result, they can be safely and comfortably used by people of all ages, abilities, and mobility levels. This might involve anything from recommending that clients install grab bars in the bathroom, or widen doorways to accommodate wheelchair users.
What Services Do Aging in Place Designers Provide?
Aging in place designers typically provide advice and recommendations pertaining to the following services:
- Home safety assessments
- Accessible design consultation
- Universal design consultation
- Remodeling advice and guidance
How Much Do Aging in Place Designers Charge?
Aging in place designers typically charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $50-$200/hour. Some designers also charge a flat fee for specific projects, such as redesigning a bathroom to be more accessible.
Aging in Place Designer Salary
The average Aging in Place designer can expect to earn approximately $62,000 USD per year (Source: Payscale).
Why You Should Offer Virtual Aging in Place Design Services?
Aging in place design is a great service to offer virtually because it doesn’t necessarily require you to be on-site with your clients. This means that you can work with clients from anywhere in the world!
How To Provide Virtual Aging in Place Design Services
If you’re approached by a client who needs virtual assistance making their home more accessible, the first step would be to conduct a consultation with them. During this consultation, you would discuss their goals for the project, as well as any specific concerns they have about safety or accessibility in their home.
Once you have a clear understanding of what the client is looking for, you can begin putting together a plan of action. This might involve sending them photographs or videos of homes that you’ve designed, along with a list of recommended changes or modifications to their own space. You might also choose to create a digital mood board to help your client visualize the finished product.
From there, it’s simply a matter of staying in touch with your client and providing them with any support they need to successfully make their home more accessible!
Become a certified Aging in Place Professional (APDP) in as little as 3-6 months by enrolling in QC Design School’s self-paced, online Aging in Place Course today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Now let’s take a look at some frequently asked questions about virtual design services…
Q: How profitable is eDesign?
A: EDesign is a very profitable way to run your design business! For example, let’s say you charge $100/hour for virtual design services. If you’re able to complete an average of one project per week, that’s $400 in revenue generated each week, or $20,800 over the course of a year!
Now, imagine if you were to be able to complete more than one project per week… And if you were to add this to the regular income you’re already making from your in-person design services!
Q: What is a virtual design consultation?
A: A virtual design consultation is a meeting between a designer and client that takes place online, typically via video chat. During this meeting, the designer will get to know the client’s style, needs, and budget for their project. From there, the designer will be able to provide expert recommendations and guidance on how to proceed with the project.
Q: How much should you charge for your virtual home design services?
A: The amount you charge for virtual design services will depend on a number of factors, such as your experience level, the complexity of the project, and the scope of work involved. That being said, most designers charge between $50-$200/hour for virtual design services.
Q: How can you take your business services online if you have no experience in eDesign?
A: If you have no experience in eDesign, the best place to start is by taking an online course! QC Design School offers a self-paced, online Virtual Design Training Course that’ll teach you everything you need to know about providing eDesign services. In as little as a month, you could be up and running with your very own virtual design business!
Here’s the full Virtual Design Training Course curriculum for your perusing!
Q: What are some common mistakes made when starting a virtual design business?
A: Some common mistakes made when starting an eDesign business include not having a clear niche, not promoting your services effectively, and not having systems in place to streamline the design process. Another mistake that’s often made is underestimating the amount of time and effort required to run a successful eDesign business.
Q: What should you include in your virtual design services portfolio?
A: When putting together your virtual design portfolio, be sure to include examples of projects you’ve completed that are similar to what your potential clients will be looking for. For example, if you specialize in designing small spaces, be sure to showcase some of your past work in this area. You should also include testimonials from happy clients, as well as before-and-after photos of projects you’ve worked on.
Q: How do you get started with virtual design services?
A: The first step is to decide what type of service you’d like to offer clients. Once you’ve done that, the next step is to put together a portfolio of your work. And last but not least, be sure to promote your services effectively so that potential clients can find you!
Q: What are some common questions prospective clients have about virtual design services?
A: Some common questions prospective clients have include:
- “How much do virtual design services cost?”
- “What is the process of working with a virtual designer?”
- “What type of services can I expect to receive?”
- “How do I know if virtual design is right for me and my project?”
If you’re able to answer these questions confidently, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a successful virtual designer and booking more customers than you can shake a stick at!
Conclusion
So, there you have it! Although the 9 career paths discussed in this article are fantastic virtual design services to offer clients, remember that the sky is the limit. There are plenty more design services you can offer digitally. You just need to decide what you’re passionate about!
Do you have any questions about virtual design services? Maybe you’ve got some tips to offer other readers? Leave a comment below and let’s chat! We’re always happy to help fellow entrepreneurs on their journey to success.
Happy designing! 🙂
