I recently got the opportunity and was able to decorate a model home. I wanted to share some tips so that you to can do this too. For years, I have had it on my professional bucket list to decorate a model home. It all started when my husband and I (when we were dating) would go to the “Parade of Homes”- aka model homes decorated to the nines. I loved walking through them and seeing the latest trends (before blogs!) and getting inspired. Homes with basketball courts and theaters and even indoor swimming pools- so fun to see (this was obviously before the recission)! I dreamed about decorating one and what fun things I would add. Well, a few weeks ago I made that dream a reality! I got a few emails asking how I was able to do this and some tips on how to become a decorator of a model home, so I thought I would answer that question here in the hope that it is helpful for you.
The background story–
I got my Interior Design degree in 2005 from FIDM. Since graduating I have mostly worked as a visual merchandiser (I make store showrooms look pretty to increase sales) for furniture stores.
How it happened–
One day a builder contacted the place I work to see if we could furnish their model home with our furniture. Since I am the only one on staff with Interior Design experience, I was the lucky one to get to decorate it. So pretty much, I was in the right place at the right time. Since I’ve worked at the same furniture company for years I have received requests again and again for decorating a model home. The truth is that furniture isn’t cheap so builders love partnering with furniture stores as a advertising partner. If you are interested in merchandising, a furniture store might be a great way for you to be able to decorate a model home.
How you can make it happen-
Great job on your creativity! I have had the same dream of designing for a model home, but not sure where to start. Most of the builders that I’ve known in the past already have a designer or team whom they have used for years. How do I go about getting my foot in the door? Any advice is greatly appreciated!!
Hi Shannon- first of all, thanks for the comment! I would suggest some networking. See what events your local builders have (in Utah we have the Parade of Homes or there is a spring home show for builders). I would attend those events with a business card and make friends. You never know which contact you make will be the one that leads to becoming their decorator. Before the recession, I used to see in-house designer positions listed online for builders, so I would check there too. I had the dream of decorating a model home for years, so I just want to encourage you and say hold on to your dream even if it takes awhile to get there! You can do it! 🙂
xo, Ashley
Hi Lola, thank you SO much for sharing! I really appreciate it!
Great post and such a good stoy! My friend Katie become a decorator in a very similar way so I’ve shared this with her 🙂
We have a parade of homes here in Birmingham, AL. What a great idea. A local magazine, Southern Living, covers it and I do know [of] the editor. It would be great to be a model home decorator AND get your work featured! I’m actually interviewing for a Model Home Designer position out in CA and am kind of flying by the seat of my pants putting together a presentation. I’m glad I ran across your blog entry! 🙂
Oooooh! That’s so exciting! Good luck Miranda!