How to Find Success as a Virtual Kitchen and Bathroom Designer

By Industry Partner 2020, A Cyncly Company

For kitchen and bath designers, the excitement associated with new technologies bringing people closer together is something to be harnessed. It represents an incredible opportunity to not just reach a larger market, but to genuinely connect with customers in a way that wasn’t previously possible. 

Sounds exciting, right? So, how does one become a virtual designer and find success in this emerging field? 

Step 1: Build a solid foundation of knowledge and know-how 



The first step is to gather foundational knowledge in kitchen and bath design.

Your more established design colleagues will also be the first to tell you that design education is an ongoing one. Long after you’ve finished your formal training, you’ll find no shortage of ongoing education opportunities in the form of blog posts, trend reports, trade publication articles, webinars and live event seminars. The right design software will also boost your knowledge base with ongoing training options. 

Step 2: Choose the best design software for you 

To become a virtual designer, you’re going to need to familiarize yourself with the best virtual tools for not only creating designs, but also streamlining your workflow. That means choosing the right design software. 

While we’re not exactly impartial, we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention that Design Live has you covered when it comes to both creating amazing virtual renderings and managing your virtual business.  

Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned pro, 2020 Design Live gives you the ability to create stunning, photo-realistic renderings. In addition, every subscription to 2020 Design Live includes access to the 2020 Manager Starter Edition, allowing you to organize, optimize and win more deals for your virtual design business. 

Step 3: Build your design portfolio 



A full portfolio should not only include examples of your design work but also testimonials from satisfied clients. It might be helpful to include before-and-after images as well. Think of it as a resume. Include any elements that might instill a sense of confidence in anyone considering hiring you to design their kitchen or bathroom. 

Step 4: Market your design business 

An attractive portfolio is the first step toward marketing yourself. It’s crucial to create a brand for your virtual business by establishing an online presence through a website, social media, organic search engine optimization, and paid advertising. 

However, just because your design business is virtual, it doesn’t mean you should limit your marketing activities to only digital solutions. Take advantage of networking opportunities at events, trade shows, and seminars. You can also reach out to home builders, contractors, and others in the construction industry. 

Step 5: Look to the future of design



You can accomplish this in a couple of ways: 

The importance of staying up to date on the latest trends and technologies, while also continuing to hone your skills by taking courses, can't be overstated.  

But equally important is using the newest tools to craft your designs and share your renderings with clients.
 
There are several features of our software designed to put the “virtual” in virtual designer: 

• Design Live’s 360° Panorama renderings provide your clients with an immersive 3D experience that makes them feel like they’re right inside the new design – all from the comfort of their home.
• The latest enhancement to 360° Panorama is a Multi-point feature that allows your clients to easily navigate a rendering from different viewpoints and perspectives so that they can see the design from all angles. 
• Design Live’s new Live Share feature allows you to collaborate in real-time with your customers. Make changes together even while apart and ensure your client feels as though they’re part of the entire design process. 

Opportunity knocks 
To become a virtual interior designer, you need a combination of knowledge, expertise, and marketing skills. By following the steps above, you can establish yourself in this emerging sector and build a successful career.