110 - Let's Talk about Building a Legacy – How to Create a Lasting Interior Design Business with Margaret Donaldson

Send us Fan MailWhat does it take to build a design business that stands the test of time? In this episode, I sit down with Margaret Donaldson, a seasoned interior designer with over 30 years of experience, to uncover the key principles behind creating a sustainable, profitable, and long-lasting design firm. We discuss how to evolve with industry trends without losing your brand identity, the importance of client relationships, referrals, and reputation, and the strategies for growing and leading a strong, committed team. Margaret also shares her best advice on scaling, delegating, and staying inspired through the years, ensuring your business not only survives but thrives for decades. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to solidify your firm's legacy, this episode is packed with wisdom to help you build a business that lasts!https://margaretdonaldsoninteriors.com/https://www.instagram.com/mdiluxurydesign/In just one focused hour, we’ll dive into whatever you need most—pricing strategies, client management, attracting high-end clients or building repeat business. You’ll get clarity, strategy, and expert advice based on my 27+ years of running a thriving, seven-figure design firm.This is your chance to get real answers to the questions you’ve been dying to ask—from someone who’s actually been there.Book your session as you need it—no strings attached. Step-by-step guides, AI Chat GPT Made Simple and Claude Made Simple, start at the very beginning and then walk you through building your own role-based AI assistants, complete with prompts, checklists, and plug-and-play workflows you can implement immediately. Get both guides (and more designer resources) here: https://thebusinessofbeautifulspaces.com/designer-resourcesBe sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us [email protected] or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the  principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON.  Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces  I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design                                      I @thorntondesign