Episodi

  • Send us a text

    n this inspiring episode of The Business of Beautiful Spaces, Laura chats with Laurie Laizure, founder of the Interior Design Community and host of the To-The-Trade Podcast. Laurie is a connector, a cheerleader for designers everywhere, and a true thought leader in the interior design industry. With over 94,000 members worldwide, IDC has become a trusted space for designers to share, learn, laugh, and grow—especially during times of industry change.

    Together, Laurie and Laura dive into the power of community, how designers can lean into connection and collaboration, and why Laurie believes that no matter where you’re from—Boston or Bangladesh—we’re all navigating similar challenges. From tech tools and social media to global trends and daily struggles, this episode is packed with encouragement and insights to help you feel supported, inspired, and ready to keep building your beautiful design business.

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

    Why community is essential for the future of interior designHow IDC has evolved and adapted with the industryThe biggest challenges facing designers today—and how to overcome themThe value of authentic connection in a digital worldTips for staying informed, inspired, and supported as a designer

    Connect with Laurie Laizure:

    Instagram: @interiordesigncommunityWebsite: www.interiordesigncommunity.comPodcast: To-The-Trade Podcast

    Mentorship One on One :

    https://theprofitacademyforinteriordesigners.mykajabi.com/mentorship

    The Business of Beautiful Spaces Presets:

    https://theprofitacademyforinteriordesigners.mykajabi.com/preset-collection

    The Profit Academy for Interior Designers Online Course:

    https://theprofitacademyforinteriordesigners.mykajabi.com/

    Be 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

    Laura 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
    Thornton Design I @thorntondesign





  • Send us a text

    This episode couldn’t be more timely. As many of us are navigating a major shift in our businesses—grappling with pricing pressures, uncertain clients, and the ever-growing noise around tariff talks—it can be hard to stay positive, charge what we’re truly worth, and hold firm on the value we bring. That’s why I’m so excited to welcome today’s guest, Andrea Liebross.

    Andrea is a business and mindset coach who works with unapologetically ambitious women entrepreneurs across a variety of industries—women just like you and me, who are juggling the complexities of life, business, and big dreams. She's also the host of the Time to Level Up podcast and author of the upcoming book She Thinks Big: The Entrepreneurial Woman’s Guide to Moving Past the Messy Middle and into the Extraordinary, coming out this fall.

    Andrea has helped nearly 10,000 women shift from stuck to unstoppable by blending big-picture thinking with the kind of systems and strategies that create time, money, and energy freedom. Today, she’s here to help us break through the messy middle, stay grounded in our value, and continue building businesses that don’t just survive—but truly thrive. Let’s dive in.

    Website: https://andrealiebross.com/

    Be 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

    Laura 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
    Thornton Design I @thorntondesign





  • Episodi mancanti?

    Fai clic qui per aggiornare il feed.

  • Send us a text

    Elle is an avid reader, ocean lover and Brit-girl born to travel.

    She's also obsessed with helping interior designers stand out and get paid. Elle spent 10 years writing for luxury magazines, and today she blends rich storytelling and editorial design into results-driven websites for interior designers. She lives in Hong Kong and has two kids and a very naughty chihuahua. Follow Elle on Instagram at @imellekwan or contact her through her website at https://ellekwan.com/services

    Get Elle's 3-step project-booking process and email templates here: https://ellekwan.myflodesk.com/powerhouseportfolio

    Be 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

    Laura 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
    Thornton Design I @thorntondesign





  • Send us a text

    In today’s episode, we’re diving into a topic that so many interior designers and decorators wrestle with—how to get help without the pressure of hiring full-time staff. I’m joined by the incredible Ronniesha Rivera, founder of Vetted by Design, who specializes in helping creatives streamline their businesses with the support of skilled virtual assistants.

    We’ll explore how VAs can become a powerful extension of your team—allowing you to delegate with confidence, reclaim your time, and finally loosen the grip on those tasks you just don’t need to do yourself. Whether you’re overwhelmed by admin, struggling with social media, or simply looking to grow without burnout, Ronniesha shares practical tips and real talk on how to make virtual support work for your business. You don’t want to miss this one!

    Be 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

    Laura 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
    Thornton Design I @thorntondesign





  • Send us a text

    In this heartfelt and unfiltered episode, Laura sits down with Carly Nemtean — Principal Designer of Carriage Lane Design Build and Co-Founder of The Collective Workspace — for a real conversation about what many designers are feeling behind the scenes. From navigating the post-COVID slowdown to dealing with tariff challenges and shifting client expectations, Carly and Laura talk candidly about the emotional and financial realities of running a design business right now. This episode is a reminder that if you’re feeling uncertain or overwhelmed, you’re not alone — and there’s power in sharing the journey.

    website: https://www.thecollectiveto.com/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecollectiveworkspace/

    🎉 You’re Invited: Designer Day at Decor-Rest!
    📅 Tuesday, May 13th, 2025 | 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM
    📍 511 Chrislea Road, Woodbridge, Ontario, L4L 8N6

    Join us for a fabulous morning at the Decor-Rest showroom and factory in Woodbridge! This exclusive in-person event kicks off with a delicious continental breakfast and the chance to connect with fellow designers. I’ll be there as a special guest speaker, sharing real-world strategies for building a profitable interior design business—no fluff, just what works.

    You’ll also get a sneak peek at the latest trends from the Milan and High Point Furniture Markets, an exclusive plant and showroom tour, and we’ll wrap up with prizes, photos, and fun! This is your opportunity to learn, laugh, and network with some of the best in the biz.

    đŸ’„ Space is limited and the Marzilli family at Decor-Rest goes all out—so if you sign up, please show up! Can’t wait to see you there

    RSVP: [email protected]

    Be 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

    Laura 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
    Thornton Design I @thorntondesign





  • Send us a text

    Welcome to today’s episode, where we’re diving into the powerful partnership between interior designers and trusted vendors—and how that collaboration can elevate not just your design vision, but your bottom line. Joining us is Idilia Lucente, Sales Manager at Decor-Rest, a family-run Canadian furniture company known for their commitment to quality, customization, and the kind of customer care that makes doing business feel more like working with family.

    With over four decades of experience and deep Italian roots, Decor-Rest has earned a reputation for award-winning, bench-made upholstered furniture that blends timeless craftsmanship with the latest trends. From sourcing exclusive fabrics across the globe to tailoring each piece with precision, Decor-Rest offers designers a one-stop solution for custom luxury that’s both stylish and smart. Idilia brings her passion for building relationships and supporting designers in creating beautiful, profitable spaces—with the added bonus of saving time, avoiding competitive shopping, and delivering peace of mind with Canadian-made quality and warranties that practically sell themselves.

    Whether you're an established designer or just starting out, this conversation will give you valuable insights into how partnering with a vendor like Decor-Rest can help you streamline your process, impress your clients, and build a more profitable business. Let’s dive in!

    Website: https://www.decor-rest.com/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decorrest/

    🎉 You’re Invited: Designer Day at Decor-Rest!
    📅 Tuesday, May 13th, 2025 | 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM
    📍 511 Chrislea Road, Woodbridge, Ontario, L4L 8N6

    Join us for a fabulous morning at the Decor-Rest showroom and factory in Woodbridge! This exclusive in-person event kicks off with a delicious continental breakfast and the chance to connect with fellow designers. I’ll be there as a special guest speaker, sharing real-world strategies for building a profitable interior design business—no fluff, just what works.

    You’ll also get a sneak peek at the latest trends from the Milan and High Point Furniture Markets, an exclusive plant and showroom tour, and we’ll wrap up with prizes, photos, and fun! This is your opportunity to learn, laugh, and network with some of the best in the biz.

    đŸ’„ Space is limited and the Marzilli family at Decor-Rest goes all out—so if you sign up, please show up! Can’t wait to see you there.

    RSVP for Designer Day Event: [email protected]

    Be 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

    Laura 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
    Thornton Design I @thorntondesign





  • Send us a text

    In this episode of The Business of Beautiful Spaces, I sit down with Ronniesha Armstead, founder and CEO of Vetted By Design, to tackle one of the most common questions in the design industry: How do you know when it’s time to hire help? If you’re feeling overwhelmed with admin work, spending more time managing orders than designing, or simply questioning if you need support—this episode is for you. We discuss how outsourcing tasks like accounting, renderings, AutoCAD drawings, and procurement can free up your time and boost profitability. Ronniesha shares how Vetted By Design simplifies the hiring process by connecting interior designers with pre-vetted professionals, making it easier than ever to get the help you need. Tune in to learn how a virtual design assistant could be the first step in scaling your business!

    Website: https://vetted-bydesign.com/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vettedbydesign/

    Be 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

    Laura 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
    Thornton Design I @thorntondesign





  • Send us a text

    As the visionary founder of Brenda Brix Consulting and AMR Design, Brenda leads an exceptional team, collaborating with ideal clients to transform her long-standing dreams into reality. Despite facing health challenges and experiencing burnout early on, Brenda's transformative journey led her to create a streamlined and repeatable business structure that allows her the time and mental space to pursue her passions. Brenda has launched a furniture line, has projects across western Canada, and is thrilled to work with other interior designers to create a business supporting the life they want. As an award-winning entrepreneur, Brenda offers invaluable insights and strategies, promoting collaboration over competition and an abundance mindset that fosters growth and unity. Committed to lifelong learning and giving back, Brenda seeks to pave the way for aspiring women in business by sharing her knowledge and expertise.

    Website: https://www.brendabrix.com/

    Be 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

    Laura 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
    Thornton Design I @thorntondesign





  • Send us a text

    I’m excited to introduce you to Porsche Williams, the founder of The Prototype, a concierge service that helps interior designers streamline their businesses and elevate their client experience. Porsche specializes in providing unique, done-for-you gifting solutions that seamlessly integrate into a designer’s process—going beyond the expected holiday season to create meaningful touchpoints throughout the client journey.

    In today’s episode, we’re diving into elevated gifting strategies for interior design firms—how and when to use gifting to strengthen relationships, reinforce your brand, and add a personal touch that sets your business apart. Porsche will share insights on selecting thoughtful, high-impact gifts that align with your firm’s identity and client experience, as well as how The Prototype can handle the execution on your behalf. If you’ve ever wanted to incorporate gifting into your process but weren’t sure where to start, this conversation will provide the clarity and strategy you need.

    https://www.theprototype.net/about

    Be 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

    Laura 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
    Thornton Design I @thorntondesign





  • Send us a text

    In this episode, I sit down with Cathy Tonks, a seasoned interior designer who is transforming the industry with her innovative designer co-op. This collaborative workspace provides designers with shared office space, meeting rooms, and a full showroom featuring access to over 200 vendors. With the collective buying power of over 21 designers and growing, members gain exclusive discounts and vendor relationships that would be difficult to secure independently. Beyond the resources, Cathy has fostered a true design community where professionals can collaborate, learn, and grow through vendor presentations, idea-sharing, and ongoing support. We discuss how creating a strong design network can elevate your business, why community over competition is the future of the industry, and how this one-stop-shop concept is making waves. If you’re ready to explore new ways to grow and connect as a designer, this episode is a must-listen!

    https://www.designswithyouinmind.net/about

    https://www.instagram.com/designswithyouinmind/

    Be 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

    Laura 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
    Thornton Design I @thorntondesign





  • Send us a text

    What 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/

    Be 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

    Laura 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
    Thornton Design I @thorntondesign





  • Send us a text

    What’s next in the world of interior design? In this episode, I sit down with Stacy Garcia, a globally recognized trend forecaster, product designer, and industry visionary, to explore the future of design and how interior designers can stay ahead of the curve.

    Stacy breaks down the 6 key design trends for 2025, sharing insights into the colors, materials, and styles that will define the industry in the coming year.

    Be 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

    Laura 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
    Thornton Design I @thorntondesign





  • Send us a text

    Feeling busy but not productive? As interior designers, we juggle endless tasks—client meetings, site visits, vendor calls, and team management—while battling constant distractions. In this episode, I’m breaking down practical strategies to help you stay focused, eliminate distractions, and finally feel like you’re making progress in your business.

    Be 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

    Laura 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
    Thornton Design I @thorntondesign





  • Send us a text

    In this episode, I’m joined by sales specialist Nikki Rausch, a master in recognizing and responding to buying signals. With 25+ years of experience selling to prestigious organizations like The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and NASA, Nikki shattered sales records and received “top producer” awards along the way.

    Today, entrepreneurs and small business owners hire Nikki to show them how to sell successfully and authentically.

    Nikki has written 3 books, all available on Amazon. And she has a podcast called Sales Maven which you can find on your favorite podcast platform.

    instagram: @your_sales_maven

    Be 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

    Laura 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
    Thornton Design I @thorntondesign





  • Send us a text

    In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Lucy Lagana, a distinguished homeopath and holistic health expert who travels the world sharing her knowledge, including extended stays in exotic locales like the Maldives. Lucy, with her extensive background in homeopathic medicine, holistic nutrition, and allergy clearing, has been a crucial part of managing the host's health for over a decade. Today, we dive into the topic of cortisol—the notorious stress hormone—and its impact on women running their own interior design businesses. We explore how the multifaceted roles of business ownership can silently ramp up stress levels, affecting both mental and physical health. Lucy provides practical advice on recognizing the signs of elevated cortisol and shares non-medical strategies to manage and reduce its effects. Tune in to discover how you can start tuning into your body's needs with the same keen attention you give to your clients, making 2025 a year of health as well as success.

    Instagram: @lucylagana
    website: www.rootstohealing.com

    Be 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

    Laura 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
    Thornton Design I @thorntondesign





  • Send us a text

    In this episode of Let’s Talk About Goals, Your Why, and Building Your Legacy, we dive deep into the power of core values and Big Hairy Audacious Goals (BHAGs). Discover how clarifying your principles and aiming high can keep you aligned, guide your decisions, and ignite a sense of purpose in both your business and personal life. From overcoming psychological barriers to creating systems that support your vision, we explore practical ways to stay focused on what really matters—making an impact and laying the groundwork for a legacy that lasts.

    Whether you’re an emerging entrepreneur or a seasoned pro, this conversation is designed to help you shift your mindset from simply being a designer to becoming the visionary CEO of your firm. Learn how connecting with your “why” can propel you toward authentic growth, attract the right clients, and shape a thriving business. Tune in for insights that will empower you to dream bigger, work smarter, and design a future that’s truly aligned with your core values.

    Be 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

    Laura 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
    Thornton Design I @thorntondesign





  • Send us a text

    In this episode, we dive into why honing in on a specific niche can be the game-changer that helps interior designers stand out in a crowded marketplace. Rather than stretching yourself thin trying to appeal to everyone, we explore how narrowing your focus allows you to sharpen your expertise, streamline your marketing, and attract clients who truly value what you offer. From defining your unique strengths to crafting laser-focused messaging, we outline six compelling reasons why “going small” can yield big results for your design business.

    Whether you’re a seasoned pro looking to refine your brand or a newcomer aiming to carve out your space in the industry, this conversation sheds light on how niching down fuels both creativity and profitability. Tune in to discover practical tips, real-world examples, and the mindset shifts needed to thrive in the modern landscape of interior design.

    Be 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

    Laura 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
    Thornton Design I @thorntondesign





  • Send us a text

    Today’s guest is Crispin Butterfield—an interior designer who has been running her own thriving design business for over two decades. We’re going to dive into the ins and outs of building a successful firm: how she started from scratch, the moment she decided to grow her team, and the challenges she faced along the way. Now, with a wealth of experience under her belt, Crispin is dedicated to giving back to the interior design community, sharing her insights through mentoring, downloadable templates, and a host of other resources. I can’t wait to learn from her journey and unique perspective. Her name is as cool as her story—let’s get chatting with Crispin!

    Website: https://www.designlifeinc.ca
    Instagram: @designlifeinc

    Be 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

    Laura 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
    Thornton Design I @thorntondesign





  • Send us a text

    Cathleen Barnes is a web strategist and designer with over a decade of experience in the corporate digital e-commerce world. Specializing in working with interior designers, she creates websites that go beyond stunning visuals to become true business tools.What sets Cathleen apart is her data-driven approach. By leveraging inspector tools and strategy maps, she ensures every website aligns perfectly with her clients’ goals—whether it’s attracting dream clients, increasing bookings, or streamlining processes.Cathleen’s passion lies in showing interior designers how a thoughtful, strategic website can transform their business. She has helped designers boost their online visibility and client conversion rates through personalized strategies that deliver real, measurable results.


    Website: https://www.cathleenbarnesconsulting.com/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cathleenbarnesconsulting/

    Be 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

    Laura 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
    Thornton Design I @thorntondesign





  • Send us a text

    In this episode, we dive into the essential process of determining your hourly rate as an interior designer. Whether you charge by the hour, use flat fees, or quote per project, understanding your hourly rate is crucial for accurate pricing and profitability. We cover everything you need to consider, from your geographic area, ideal client, and level of service to business expenses, desired salary, and profit margins. Learn how to calculate your rate, track your time, and avoid common pricing mistakes to ensure your design business thrives.

    Be 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

    Laura 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 @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
    Thornton Design I @thorntondesign