Over the years, I have worked with numerous businesses, ranging from salons to cafes and I appreciate that as a small business owner, you wear a lot of hats. From managing stock levels to keeping customers happy. Interior design often falls to the bottom of the to-do list — if it makes the list at all. But the truth is, your space speaks volumes about your brand, values, and level of professionalism.
I consistently see the same interior design mistakes made in small businesses, that are not only easy to avoid but can actually cost businesses customers, productivity, and brand trust.
Let’s break down the top 5 interior design mistakes I see — and how to fix them, even on a budget.
1. Neglecting the Power of the First Impression
The Mistake:
The entryway, reception or storefront of your small business is cluttered, outdated, or inconsistent with your brand.
Why It Matters:
You only get one shot at a first impression. Whether a client walks into your office or peers into your storefront, they instantly judge your professionalism, quality, and attention to detail — often unconsciously — based on your space.
The Fix:
- Start with the front door. Ensure signage is clean and well-lit, paint isn’t chipped, and windows are clear. Is your customer in the right place?
- Add one design element that speaks to your brand. This could be a signature brand colour, a piece of local art, or custom shelving.
- Keep it open and uncluttered. People associate physical clutter with mental chaos.
2. Ignoring Lighting (the Silent Mood-Killer)
The Mistake:
Poor lighting — too harsh, too dim, or all overhead.
Why It Matters:
Lighting affects everything from how long people want to stay in your space to how they perceive your product or service. Fluorescent lights can feel sterile and cold, while dim lighting might feel gloomy or uninviting.
The Fix:
- Layer your lighting. Use a mix of ambient (overhead), task (focused), and accent (decorative) lighting. Design your lighting scheme at fixture layout stage and this will help identify which lighting function you need where.
- Add warmth. Swap harsh bulbs for warmer temperatures (2700K–3000K). Don’t get me started on daylight bulbs!
- Bring in natural light when possible. Remove bulky blinds or rearrange layout to make windows more central.
3. Too Much (or Too Little) Branding
The Mistake:
Either your small business brand is nowhere to be found in the space or it’s so loud it overwhelms the experience.
Why It Matters:
Your space is a silent ambassador for your business. Subtle cues — like color, texture, and layout — should support your brand without shouting it.
The Fix:
- Define your brand vibe. Are you modern and minimalist? Cosy and local? Playful and bold? I love the book ‘How to Style Your Brand‘ by Fiona Humberstone for clarifying what your brand vibe is.
- Use your palette wisely. Repeat brand colors in accents like wall art or signage.
- Keep it consistent. Fonts, tones, and styles in your space should align with your website, packaging, and social media.
4. Overlooking Functional Flow
The Mistake:
Your layout is awkward, making it hard for customers or staff to move through the space.
Why It Matters:
In a small business, this could mean customers missing products or feeling cramped, whilst in offices, it can affect productivity and morale. In wellness spaces, it could destroy the sense of calm.
The Fix:
- Map the customer journey. Literally walk through your space and note pain points or confusion.
- Prioritise open walkways. Avoid bulky furniture that blocks movement. I mean, with my IKEA background the pathway advice is inevitable
- Think like your customer. Is it easy to find what they need? Are the high-value areas (check out, services, displays) easily accessible?
5. Going DIY Without a Design Strategy
The Mistake:
You bodge your small business with bargain finds or trendy items that don’t work together — or worse, don’t serve your goals. Everyone thinks interior design is easy, but it takes time and consideration. Using an interior designer to help with your business space makes sense because they will spend the time (you don’t have) considering all the elements that bring the interior together.
Why It Matters:
Without a cohesive design plan, your space can feel disjointed or even chaotic, which can confuse customers and reduce credibility.
The Fix:
- Start with a mood board. Even a simple Pinterest board helps you define your aesthetic.
- Invest in a few key pieces. A great light fixture or well-made reception desk can anchor the whole space.
- Consult a professional — even for just an hour or two. A design consultation can help avoid expensive mistakes and stretch your budget farther. Book a 15 minute discovery call to discover how I can move your project forward but at a fraction of the cost.
Final Thoughts
Your physical space is one of the most powerful tools you have to connect with your customers and stand out in a competitive market. You don’t need a massive budget or a full renovation to make smart, strategic improvements that align with your brand and business goals.
If any of these mistakes feel familiar, you’re not alone — and you’re not stuck. With thoughtful changes and a bit of creative strategy, your space can become one of your biggest business assets.
Need help bringing your space to life?
I offer tailored interior design services for small business owners who want to create impactful, brand-aligned spaces — without the stress. Book a free discovery call or get in touch to learn more.
Images
1 – Kind Hair – Photographed by One Haus
2 – The Oat Shed – Photographed by Mcmillan Photography
3 – Beautification – Photographed by Appature Images
4 – Moodboard – images from Pinterest