EP 488 | Fewer Projects, More Profit for Interior Designers with Ellen Walker

July 7, 2026

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What if the key to making more money in your interior design business isn’t taking on more projects—but taking on fewer?

In this episode, Kimberley Seldon sits down with longtime Business of Design® member Ellen Walker, who recently achieved a milestone many designers dream of: $1 million in revenue and $200,000 in net profit from just three projects.

After years of working hard with little financial reward, Ellen transformed her business by embracing project management, capturing every available revenue stream, and following proven systems. Today, she manages entire projects from concept to completion, works closely with trusted trades, and enjoys greater profitability, control, and satisfaction than ever before.

If you’ve ever felt trapped by the belief that earning more requires working harder, Ellen’s story will show you another way.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

  • Why taking on fewer projects can lead to greater profitability
  • How project management creates both control and additional revenue
  • The three revenue streams every interior designer should capture
  • Why clients often prefer having one person manage the entire project
  • How strong contractor relationships support long-term business growth
  • The value of accountability, forecasting, and sharing financial results honestly
  • Why it’s never too late to transform your business and increase profitability
  • How following proven systems creates confidence, consistency, and wealth

 

DESIGN INTERVENTION

Don’t be afraid to take on the whole project.
When you are the lead, you are in control.

 

WATCH ON YOUTUBE

About Ellen Walker

I’ve been in the industry since May 1995. Began with window treatments and slowly worked with design projects starting small and working into larger ones to where I’m at today. It’s definitely had its bumps along the way. I almost packed it in about 10 or so years ago because of a bad client. I subcontract most of what I do for drawings and 3D photo realistic renders. The last 5 years have been the best in my career. Last year the best ever with $942,000.00 in revenue and $192,000.00 net profit.

www.ellenwalkerdesign.com

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Thank you to our podcast sponsor, Daniel House Club!

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Visit danielhouse.club/bod and use code BOD2026 to save on your Signature Membership.

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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.