Why Interior Design Matters – Part 2: Six Ways to Improve Interior Design Project Outcomes

In our previous issue of Workplace Insights, we explored how interior design is far more than an aesthetic layer…it’s a strategic discipline that shapes how people work, connect, and experience the workplace. We examined how thoughtful design choices can influence behavior, support organizational culture, and create environments that are both functional and human-centered.

So what does this mean for how to approach interior design in the workplace? It signals the need to shift from viewing interior design as a finishing touch to recognizing it as a foundational driver of workplace strategy and performance. To fully engage interior designers and unlock that value, we recommend the following:

1. Engage interior designers in the early planning stage for programming and test fits. This allows designers to help inform the design, not react to it later.
2. Include the interior designer in key meetings. This helps facilitate understanding and execution of the project’s design intent throughout all phases of the project.
3. Establish a clear decision-making process. Designated client decision makers help the designer move forward with timely feedback. Delayed approvals can lead to a delay in project or a rushed design process.
4. Support designers in design-led decisions. An interior designer’s project perspective is holistic and balances aesthetics, performance, cost, and long-term operational impact. This affects finish selections (e.g., a finish selection may have a higher initial material cost but greater durability, lower maintenance and longer life cycle), layouts (improving workflow efficiency) and workplace strategy (supporting hybrid work patterns). This allows us to deliver a thoughtful, cohesive and functional project that meets the client’s goals.
5. Align design budget with expectations. Design fees need to be based on the complete scope of the project and include budget/time to allow interior designers to fully develop solutions that address functionality, performance and long-term value. An adequate budget allows for full programming, visioning, and workplace strategy, as well as preparing detailed drawings and specifications. It also provides for critical coordination with architects, engineers, furniture vendors, and contractors.
6. Facilitate collaboration between interior designers and corporate brand teams. This collaboration should happen early, and consistently throughout the project. Doing so allows for the design to reflect an authentic expression of the brand’s identity. This alignment of team members also reduces late-stage changes, conflicting feedback, and creates a strong brand consistency across physical spaces for employees and visitors. It also guides the thoughtful placement and durability of branding elements.

When we move beyond common myths and fully engage interior designers at the earliest stages of design, they unlock the full potential of workplace environments. Thoughtfully designed spaces do more than look appealing, they enhance functionality, support collaboration, reinforce culture and create environments where people can thrive.