Mastering the Art of No: A Guide to Politely Decline Design Projects

As an interior designer, you're the maestro of decor, the wizard of color, and the keeper of all things chic. But here's the catch – not every project that comes your way is a match made in design heaven. Sometimes, you have to channel your inner minimalist and declutter your project list by politely saying no to interior design clients. 

Does the thought of declining projects as an interior designer give you the ick? Don’t worry, I’m  about to spill the tea (and it won't be on your brand-new white sofa) on how to decline interior design projects. Part of building your brand is continuously learning, and this is something that’s better to have under your belt as soon as possible. And keep in mind, next month, we’ll focus on how you can choose the projects that are best for your brand. But for today, let's dive into the art of saying "no" in style!

Carefully Craft Your “No”

When declining projects as an interior designer, it's all about maintaining that designer charm. It’s so important to express your gratitude for the opportunity without diving into design commitments that just don't spark joy. This will help bolster the let down so you’re not burning any potential bridges. 

No matter how terrible this client might be or how big of a nightmare the project seems, there’s a huge possibility that a rude “no” might come back to haunt you later, so here’s where you might have to swallow a little pride and play nice. 

Your message has to be honest without the brutal truth. Saying no to interior design clients requires a response that gently communicates your reasons for declining without ruffling feathers. 

Start by showering your potential client with gratitude. After all, they chose you among all the design stars out there! Begin your message with something like, 'I'm absolutely thrilled that you considered me for this project – thank you!' 

Then, gently transition to the decline, keeping it professional yet upbeat. You could say, 'As much as I'd love to dive into this project, my current workload is as busy as a high-end showroom during a sale season. Unfortunately, I won't be able to give your project the time and attention it truly deserves right now.' Remember, it's like delivering design news with a sprinkling of positivity and a dash of chic flair. 

My personal favorite? “I’d really hate to disappoint you and embarrass myself…” It’s an all encompassing yet gentle let down for any potentially hazardous projects. Again, putting it on yourself isn’t always easy, but in the long run, it’s definitely the most safe and effective way I’ve found in how to decline interior design projects. 

Here are a few other reasons that are good for gracefully declining projects as an interior designer:

• Overlapping commitments. 
• Misalignment of design styles.
• The scope of the project is beyond your capacity.

If Possible, Offer Alternative Solutions

When you feel like this situation might benefit from an added safety net, you can always throw in an alternative solution… without you as the designer. If the project truly isn’t a great fit for you, but might be for a colleague, offer that name as a recommendation. Of course, don’t give any suggestions if you feel like this client might be better off handling this on their own. 

I’m not saying you should pass a terrible client off to another designer, like that incredibly talented new designer you met at an event last week- that would be a terrible PR move and really mean. But if you have someone in mind that would be a better style fit, then by all means, share that contact! 

There are also stores and larger companies that offer design services that are better suited for clients that aren’t looking for luxury spaces, so you might be able to direct them that way, too. Just come from a place of confidence and you’ll be a-ok!

Factor in the Timing of Your Delivery

When you’re saying no to interior design clients, timing is everything. But hey, we’re used to that, right? Discover the best communication methods and perfect moments to break the news with grace. 

Don’t deliver the news at a time when everyone’s senses are already running wild. For example, are you in the middle of a meeting about the budget when you realize you simply can’t take one more second of your clients’ refusal to pay you fairly? Resist the urge to quit on the spot and instead, send a well-written message later.

You want your "no" to land softly, not with a splat or a thud. The goal is to leave minimal impact on your professional relationships. Again, times of tension are no good. After delivering the news about a six month lead time for the perfect sectional, or immediately following your clients demand for luxury kitchen appliances on a $6,000 budget, isn’t the best time to bail.  

Dealing with the Fallout

No matter how you go about declining projects as an interior designer it’s inevitable that there will occasionally be fallout. Please keep in mind, as long as you’ve kept it professional and positive, a client that just got rejected might still feel some type of way… ie, they might be mad. 

So how do you handle these disappointed clients? Think of it as a design challenge – how do you turn their frowns upside down without compromising your principles? First, lend a sympathetic ear and acknowledge their feelings. Say something like, "I understand this might be disappointing news, and I truly appreciate your understanding." 

Then, gently steer the conversation toward the future. Remind them that there are other designers that are a better fit, either style wise or time wise. Remember, your goal here is to gracefully bow out of this project without leaving a mark. 

Wrapping Up

And there you have it. That’s exactly how to decline interior design projects, with the most grace possible. You’re here to design beautiful spaces and maximize your profits while doing so, and part of that is saying no to interior design clients. 

Make no mistake, babes, declining projects as an interior designer will never be the easiest part of your job. It’s never fun. But my hope is that these strategies that I use will also be a helpful tool to make that part of your job a little bit easier with each opportunity. 

If you’re feeling like you’d benefit from having someone by your side to help you when these scenarios arise… because they 100% will, I’m here for you! That’s what my Interior Design Business Bakery is all about! I had to pioneer this trail on my own and learn all the lessons the hard way- but I don’t think that has to be everyone’s story! I want you to walk the same path, but with me by your side, helping you every step of the way. When you join the Bakery, you’re getting your very own mentor for the business side of design… hint, hint, it’s me!

Stay tuned for next month’s blog, a part two, if you will. We’ll focus on how to confidently choose clients and projects that are a great fit for your brand. And yes, I did say choose, because you do not need to say “yes” to every project that comes your way. I’ll share the deets next month!

XO,

Michelle