8 Secrets to Running a Design Business That Let's You Travel More

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What if your design business could fuel your wanderlust instead of keeping you tethered to your desk? Picture sketching layouts in a Parisian café or finding inspiration for a project while wandering through the markets of Marrakesh. Of course, many of us have commitments—family, routines, the daily grind—that keep us tied down. But here’s the thing: in life, either you travel, or you don’t. And the same principles that help you carve out time for personal adventures apply to your business. We’re here to help you chart a course toward a design business that supports your love for exploration without missing a beat on client satisfaction.

1. Know Your Ideal Clients and Projects

The first step to creating a travel-friendly business is attracting the right clients. Not everyone will align with your way of working, especially if you plan to work remotely for part of the year. Focus on clients who value your expertise and trust you to manage projects effectively. This is particularly important if your work involves a mix of in-person and remote services.

If you’re still saying yes to clients who overcomplicate processes, now’s the time to tighten your criteria. It’s not about being picky; it’s about building a sustainable business. Clear communication from the start sets expectations and helps clients feel secure.

2. Balance Virtual and In-Person Services

Many designers don’t work exclusively with virtual services, but incorporating them can provide more flexibility. Virtual design allows you to handle much of the planning and conceptual work remotely, even for on-site projects. While the biggest paychecks often come from in-person jobs, adding virtual options can free up your schedule, giving you more time to travel.

Offering both in-person and virtual services creates a diversified portfolio. For example, you could take on large on-site projects while also offering virtual consultations or mood boards to fill gaps in your calendar. This mix can lead to more consistent income without locking you into a rigid schedule.

3. Automate Your Processes

Automation tools can streamline invoicing, contracts, and client onboarding, reducing the time you spend on admin tasks. The less time you spend on repetitive backend work, the more time you’ll have for designing and, of course, traveling. With systems in place, you’ll be free to focus on high-value tasks while your business runs efficiently in the background.

4. Delegate and Build a Reliable Team

Delegation is a game-changer when it comes to running a flexible business. While some site visits might be unavoidable, much of the work—from client communication to logistics—can be handled by trusted collaborators. A strong team or network ensures that projects move forward smoothly, even when you’re away.

This could include virtual design assistants, local contractors, or a network of specialists who share your standards. By sharing responsibilities, you can focus on high-level decision-making and design work while leaving the logistical details to capable hands. Delegating well means you’re not tied to every aspect of every project, freeing you to enjoy your travels without sacrificing quality.

5. Diversify Your Income Streams

Diversifying your income gives you financial breathing room and reduces the need to juggle multiple intensive projects at once. An online shop, for example, can generate passive income while showcasing your design aesthetic. Platforms like Sidedoor let you curate furnishings and decor for clients, creating an additional revenue stream that doesn’t tie you to a single location.

Other options include offering online courses, publishing a design guide, or consulting on smaller projects. These avenues allow you to scale your business in ways that support your lifestyle goals. Check out our Creating Passive & Multiple Income Streams for Interior Designers mini-guide, packed with actionable ideas for generating additional income streams and step-by-step instructions to help you implement them. 

6. Streamline Your Workflow

A consistent and efficient workflow keeps your business running smoothly, whether you’re at home or halfway across the globe. Templates for onboarding, presentations, and deliverables can save time and reduce repetitive tasks.

Define a clear process for every stage of a project and communicate it to your clients. This builds trust and keeps projects on track, even when you’re traveling. A streamlined approach means you can focus on both work and leisure without unnecessary stress.

7. Maintain Client Confidence

Traveling doesn’t mean neglecting your clients. They shouldn’t feel any disruption in service, so it’s important to stay available and responsive. Use scheduling tools to send updates during their business hours, even if you’re in a different time zone. Regular communication keeps things moving and reassures clients that their projects are your priority.

Let clients know your travel plans in advance and highlight how you’ll manage their projects during that time. When clients feel informed and supported, they’re more likely to trust your ability to work remotely.

8. Draw Inspiration from Travel

Travel isn’t just a break; it’s a source of creative energy. Immersing yourself in new environments, cultures, and architecture can spark ideas that elevate your work. From vibrant markets to historical landmarks, these experiences add depth and richness to your designs. 

Document your travels through photos, sketches, or journals, and find ways to incorporate what you discover into your projects. Your clients will appreciate the stories and thoughtfulness behind your designs.

Designing a Life of Freedom

Think about why you fell in love with interior design—it’s about creating new spaces and experiences. Traveling offers you that same joy on a grander scale. And here’s the good news: it’s not all or nothing. You don’t have to choose between being a digital nomad and staying glued to your home office. Start small—plan one trip this year and see how it goes. When you realize your business can thrive even while you’re away, you might find yourself booking that next adventure sooner than you thought. Don’t let your other dreams get buried under stacks of samples. Go explore!

xx, Danae

Move Over Sunbathing; Have You Tried Forest Bathing?

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What if I told you that there's a hidden oasis of relaxation, without the scorching UV rays and pesky sand, where you can disconnect from everyday noise and reconnect with nature? It’s time to try forest bathing!

What is Forest Bathing?

No, it's not taking a bath amidst the trees (though that could be quite an adventure!). Forest bathing, or "Shinrin-yoku" as it's known in Japan, is the practice of immersing yourself in the soothing embrace of nature, particularly the forest. It's not a bath in the traditional sense but more like a sensory soak in nature's serene beauty. The term was coined in Japan in the 1980s and has since gained popularity as an alternative form of relaxation and rejuvenation.

Not Your Average Hike

Unlike hiking or trekking, forest bathing doesn't involve conquering peaks or covering vast distances. It's a slow, mindful, and meditative experience. Imagine strolling leisurely through the woods, allowing yourself to be fully present in the moment, and embracing the sights, sounds, smells, and textures of the forest. It's a chance to let go of stress, quiet the mind, and connect with nature on a deeper level.

Benefits of Forest Bathing

Beyond the obvious appeal of a relaxing experience (ecotherapy, anyone?), the forest air is filled with phytoncides, natural chemicals that support the immune system. Immersing yourself in nature can spark creativity and improve focus and clarity of thought. Being in nature also promotes better sleep quality, leading to more restorative rest.

How to Engage in Forest Bathing: A Gentle Guide

Choose your Destination: Find a forest or wooded area near you. It could be a local park, nature reserve, or any green space with plenty of trees. The more diverse the flora, the better.

Gear Up: You don’t need much; just be sure to dress for the weather, and consider bringing a picnic blanket, a journal with a pen, and snacks and water if you’ll be out for a while.

Disconnect to Reconnect: Leave behind the distractions of technology. Turn off your phone or put it on silent. This is your time to be present with nature, not with screens.

Use All Your Senses: As you walk, engage all your senses. Notice the rustling of leaves, the chirping of birds, the earthy aroma of the forest floor, and the feel of the bark against your fingertips. You can even place your bare feet on the earth for a “grounding” experience.

Find Your Spot: When you feel drawn to a particular spot, pause and stay there for a while. It could be near a stream, under a majestic tree, or wherever you feel most comfortable.

Be Mindful: Let your thoughts come and go like leaves floating downstream. Be fully present in the moment and observe without judgment.

Stunning Forest Bathing Destinations

The United States boasts an abundance of natural wonders, and several places are perfect for indulging in the magic of forest bathing, including:

  • Redwood National and State Parks, California

  • Acadia National Park, Maine

  • Olympic National Park, Washington

  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee, and North Carolina

  • Adirondack Park, New York

If you're planning to venture into a new or remote region for your forest bathing experience, it's wise to consider making it a group excursion for added safety. Fortunately, there's a growing availability of guided tours that can enhance your forest bathing journey, such as this one in Asheville, North Carolina, or this one in Honolulu, Hawaii.

However, you don’t need to embark on grand journeys to far-off destinations for a transformative experience. Whether you choose to wander alone or gather friends, start by taking small, mindful steps right in your local area. Explore the nearby parks, meander through wooded areas, and let the enchanting beauty of nature surround you. Happy forest bathing!

 xx, Danae

Lesser-Known Travel Destinations for Interior Design Lovers!

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Maybe you are fortunate enough to have already visited some of the most famous travel destinations, or perhaps you are someone who prefers to explore off the beaten track. Either way, I’ve curated a list of eight alternative destinations that offer a wealth of attractions for enthusiasts of interior design and architecture, promising an extraordinary and unforgettable experience.

Instead of: Mexico City, Mexico

  • While both cities feature colorful facades and wrought-iron balconies, San Miguel de Allende stands out for its colonial-era charm. With Baroque and Neoclassical architecture, ornate churches, elegant mansions, and cobblestone streets, this small town in the mountains of central Mexico is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is known for its flower-filled courtyards and charming small-town feel.

 

Instead of: Jaipur, India

  • Each city having its own unique style of architecture and design, Chandigarh is renowned for its modernist utopia. Designed by the Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier in the 1950s, Chandigarh features functional, minimalist design, bold geometric architecture, and innovative design solutions. Some of the notable landmarks in Chandigarh include the Capitol Complex, the Open Hand Monument, and the Palace of Assembly, which showcase the city's pioneering modernist aesthetic. In addition to its architectural marvels, Chandigarh is also known for its beautiful gardens, such as the Rose Garden and the Rock Garden, and its bustling markets, where you can find traditional handicrafts and textiles.

Instead of: Amsterdam, Netherlands

  • While both are Dutch cities that offer a mix of historic and modernist architecture, Rotterdam is known for its cutting-edge architecture and innovative design. Rotterdam is home to a number of stunning architectural marvels such as the Cube Houses, which are a set of innovative homes designed by architect Piet Blom, and the iconic Erasmus Bridge, which spans the River Maas and is a symbol of the city's modernity.

 

Instead of: Istanbul, Turkey

  • Both cities offer a mix of historic and modern architecture, with a strong influence from the Ottoman and Persian empires. Tbilisi is less well-known than Istanbul, but it offers a similar blend of cultures and a unique architectural style. One of the must-visit points of interest in Tbilisi is the Narikala Fortress, a medieval castle that sits on a hill overlooking the city and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

Instead of: Copenhagen, Denmark

  • Helsinki and Copenhagen are both Nordic cities that boast impressive design and architecture, but Helsinki is known for its Art Nouveau architecture and its Finnish design heritage. The Design Museum in Helsinki is a great place to explore Finnish design history and contemporary design, while the Arabia Factory, located just outside the city center, is a hub of Finnish ceramics and design. The Finnish capital is also home to some of the most interesting examples of modernist architecture in the world, such as the Temppeliaukio Church and the Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art.

 

Instead of: Dubai, United Arab Emirates

  • Both cities offer a mix of modern and traditional architecture, with a focus on luxury and high-end design. Baku is less well-known than Dubai, but it offers a similar mix of opulence and modernity. One of the most stunning architectural attractions in Baku is the Flame Towers, a trio of skyscrapers that are covered in LED screens that display images of flames, making them look like they're actually on fire. In addition, the Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center, designed by the late architect Zaha Hadid, is a stunning example of contemporary architecture and design.

Instead of: Barcelona, Spain

  • Both cities offer a mix of Gothic, modernist, and contemporary architecture, but Valencia is less crowded and touristy than Barcelona, and its architecture is arguably more diverse and less well-known. Valencia is also known for the work of architect Santiago Calatrava, whose futuristic designs can be seen in the City of Arts and Sciences, a complex of cultural and architectural wonders that includes the Hemisfèric planetarium, the Oceanogràfic aquarium, and the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia opera house.

 

Instead of: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

  • While both cities have their own charm, Brasilia is a modernist utopia that is unlike any other city in Brazil. The entire city was planned and built from scratch in the late 1950s, with bold geometric shapes, concrete structures, and innovative design solutions. The city's master plan was designed by the famous Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer and, once again, Le Corbusier. Despite being the capital city, it is often overshadowed by Rio de Janeiro as a tourist destination, but it is well worth a visit.

 

Happy Traveling!

xx, Danae