EP 255 | Working with Builders as an Interior Designer with Crystal Collinson

January 4, 2022

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Is designing for builders and developers the right niche for your interior design business?

In this episode, Kimberley Seldon is joined by Crystal Collinson to explore the realities of working with builders, developers, and presentation centres—and how this side of the design industry differs from residential client work.

While builder-focused projects may reduce direct homeowner involvement, they come with their own challenges, including tight timelines, strict budgets, and a different type of client relationship. Crystal shares practical insight into navigating this niche successfully and building strong industry connections.

If you’ve considered expanding into builder or developer work, this episode will help you understand what to expect.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• Why tight budgets and timelines are standard in builder projects
• How networking helps designers connect with the right builders and developers
• Why the builder is still your client—even without an end-user customer
• How presentation centres function like “retail interior design”
• The differences between builder projects and residential client work
• How niche specialization can create new business opportunities

 

DESIGN INTERVENTION

Design should solve problems, not create them. Our job is to solve a problem for our clients, and when something does not go as planned.

 

About Crystal Collinson

Crystal Collinson Interiors (aka Builder Designer) is a full-service design firm specializing in the design of model homes, sales presentation centres, builder decor studios, and small commercial projects. As principal, Crystal works with many of Toronto’s largest home builders.

Crystal possesses the unique ability to be both creative and extremely organized; keeping a handle on all the moving parts. Living by the philosophy that, “design should solve problems, not create them”.

www.collinsoninteriors.com

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Legal Disclosure | This podcast is for educational purposes only and provides general business advice for interior designers and design professionals. It is not intended as individual legal, accounting, or professional guidance. Kimberley Seldon and Business of Design® make no guarantees regarding accuracy and are not liable for how information is used. Strategies shared may not apply to every situation—listeners should seek qualified legal, financial, or professional advice before making business decisions. References and resources mentioned may change over time.

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