Tariffs and Their Impact on Your Interior Design Project

Hey there, design lovers!

Let’s talk about something that doesn’t usually pop up in mood boards or Pinterest inspo—tariffs. Yep, those pesky taxes on imported goods that we are all so sick of hearing about are actually showing up in your living room... and dining room... and pretty much everywhere in between.

If you’ve noticed prices creeping up on furniture, lighting, or custom pieces, you’re not imagining things. Tariffs have been quietly influencing the interior design world, and we’re all feeling it—from designers to clients to the folks just trying to get their new sofa delivered sometime before the next holiday.

But don’t worry—we’re breaking it down and giving you some easy, practical tips to keep your design project gorgeous and on budget.

So... What’s Going On?

A lot of the beautiful things that fill our homes—like lighting from China, luxe fabrics from Europe, or specialty tiles from Morocco—come from overseas. When tariffs go up, so do the prices. Suppliers raise their costs, retailers pass those costs along, and suddenly that dreamy velvet accent chair costs a few hundred dollars more than expected.

Add in supply chain hiccups and longer shipping times (anybody remember the Covid days?), and it’s enough to make anyone nervous about starting a renovation or redesign.

What Does This Mean for You?

If you're working with a designer (or shopping for your home on your own), you might notice a few changes:

Some items have unexpectedly high price tags.

Lead times are longer.

Budgets might stretch a bit more than planned.

But here’s the good news—you’ve got options. Here are some real ways to decrease your stress around tariff-related surprises in what can already be a stressful situation:

Shop Local

American-made brands are having a moment—and for good reason. There are so many amazing furniture makers, artisans, and decor brands right here in the U.S. - and especially in NC! No overseas fees, and your order might even arrive faster. Remember that some components of American-made items may be imported so some nominal price increases are to be expected.

Thrift

This should not come as a surprise from me but you can’t beat the character and charm of vintage pieces. Estate sales, flea markets, and thrift stores are full of unique, high-quality pieces that don’t come with import fees. Bonus: It’s eco-friendly, too.

Repurpose

Have an item you like but it needs a facelift? Paint or reupholster it! That ugly-yet-sentimental chair you got from your grandmother may be the perfect piece for your living room with some new fabric!

Mix It Up

Not everything in your space needs to be high-end or imported. Designers are pros at creating balance. Think: one show-stopping investment piece paired with budget-friendly basics. Trust me—it still looks luxe.

Start Early

Planning ahead gives you more wiggle room for lead times, shipping, and any unexpected costs. If you're eyeing a Winter refresh, start sourcing in the Spring. We are already seeing increased lead times for many items, regardless of their point of origin. Getting an early start allows you the opportunity to find alternatives if your original choices are on backorder.

Be Flexible

That imported marble might be stunning, but a beautiful domestic stone could give you a similar vibe for less. Ask us about alternate options—we’ve always got a few tricks up our sleeves.

Have a Good Contingency

Set aside a percentage of your overall budget to cover those unexpected expenses that you, well, don’t expect! Anyone who has ever gone through a renovation knows that there are always things that pop up that you don’t see coming. The contingency will help you feel more at ease about that.

Tariffs may be part of the design equation right now, but they don’t have to steal the spotlight. With a little flexibility, smart sourcing, and some creative thinking, we can still create a space you love—without the stress.

Thinking about starting a project? Let’s chat. Whether you’re designing your dream home or a vacation rental, we’ve got the know-how (and the sources) to keep things stylish and smooth—tariffs or not.