How Tariffs Are Affecting Interior Design Projects in 2025 (And What You Can Do)

If you’ve been hearing rumblings (or seeing full-on panicked headlines) about rising tariffs and wondering what that means for your home project – you’re not alone. It’s one of the first questions on nearly every client’s mind lately: Should I wait to start? Is now a bad time to order furniture or cabinets? Are prices about to skyrocket?

Let’s take a deep breath together. Yes – some changes are happening. But no, you don’t need to panic. And yes, you’re in excellent hands.

At The Intentional Design Studio, based just outside of Athens, GA, we’re here to help you feel empowered, informed, and confident, – not overwhelmed by trade policy or supply chain shifts. Here’s what you need to know, what we’re doing about it, and how to keep your project on track with care and clarity.

What’s Going On with Tariffs?

There’s been a new wave of tariff increases affecting a variety of imported goods, including many tied to the home industry – think cabinetry, furniture, tile, and lighting. Tariffs on imported cabinetry and furnishings have risen significantly in the last year, with some categories seeing increases of up to 25%, depending on the source and country of origin.

These shifts are designed to encourage domestic manufacturing, but in the short term, they’re causing ripples in project pricing and timelines – especially when materials come from overseas.

How This Affects Your Home Project

Depending on the items we’re sourcing, tariffs are likely to result in:

• Increased costs on imported materials and furnishings
• Extended lead times or delays due to shifting supply chains
• Product unavailability or backorders from affected vendors

And here’s something you might not be hearing in the news:

For every vendor email we’ve received announcing a price increase, we’ve gotten another from a trusted partner letting us know they’re holding prices steady. Not every product or material is affected. And that’s why having someone who knows the landscape – and can help you make smart, strategic choices – matters more than ever.

This is exactly why we’ve spent years building a diverse and dependable network of vendors, artisans, and suppliers. From American-made furniture lines to local craftspeople and niche vendors with short lead times, our relationships allow us to pivot quickly – without compromising style or quality.

So please don’t worry – this doesn’t mean your dream home is out of reach. It just means we need to be a little more strategic – and that’s exactly what we’re here for.

How We’re Navigating It (So You Don’t Have To)

We’re already taking thoughtful, proactive steps to keep your project running smoothly and your investment protected:

• We plan ahead. Early procurement and smart scheduling help avoid last-minute surprises.
• We communicate clearly. You’ll receive weekly updates and honest, transparent guidance every step of the way.
• We adapt with intention. When availability shifts, we find creative, beautiful alternatives that align with your style.
• We separate tariff increases from product pricing. When unexpected tariff changes affect your selections, we isolate those specific increases and pass them through at cost – no padding, no surprises. It’s all part of our commitment to clear, transparent communication.

What Sets Us Apart (Especially Right Now)

Because we believe in thoughtful planning – not last-minute scrambling – we’ve built a sourcing strategy that’s flexible, resilient, and rooted in long-term relationships. Here’s what makes working with us different:

• We love a great antique. Unique secondhand pieces add soul, history, and style – and bypass supply chain chaos entirely. (In fact, I recently shared more about this in a piece for Southern Living’s Roundup of What Designers Never Buy New).
• We prioritize American-made and local craftsmanship. Supporting small businesses not only keeps projects moving – it creates meaningful spaces with heart.
• We source with sustainability and story in mind. Our designs aren’t built around fleeting trends; they’re rooted in intention, quality, and lasting joy.

Whether it’s a flea market gem, a handmade side table, or a reclaimed wood beam from a local sawmill -your home tells a richer story when we think beyond the catalog.

What You Can Do Right Now

Here are a few ways to stay proactive and intentional as you think about your home:

• Get clarity on your goals. Whether it’s a renovation, redecorating and furnishing a room (or a couple rooms), or healthy home upgrade, getting specific about what you want helps us guide you more effectively when the time comes.
• Start collecting inspiration. Now is a great time to gather imagery, sketches, and ideas that reflect your style and lifestyle—especially if you think a project may be on the horizon. (Psst – you can check out our Pinterest for inspiration as well!) 
• Think seasonally. Consider your ideal timeline and how seasonal changes (or upcoming life transitions) might influence the best time to begin.
• Explore our portfolio and process. Take time to get to know how we work and what makes our studio different. Transparency and collaboration are at the heart of everything we do.
• Reach out when you’re ready to begin planning. Our discovery call is designed to learn more about your needs, share how we work, and see if we’re the right fit. Click here to inquire and take the first step toward your intentional home.

From Our Clients

“We felt completely taken care of from start to finish. Catherine’s thoughtful planning, problem-solving, and calm approach made all the difference—and the end result was stunning.”
– Alex

A Final Word

The world may feel unpredictable right now – but your home doesn’t have to. At The Intentional Design Studio, we’re not just creating beautiful spaces. We’re building trust, supporting smart decisions, and designing homes that feel as good as they look – no matter what’s happening outside your front door.

When you work with us, you’re not just hiring a designer. You’re gaining a guide, a strategist, and a calm voice in the noise.

Let’s design something beautiful, together.

Curious about working with us?

Our complimentary discovery call is the first step – no pressure, no decisions – just a chance to share more about your project and see if we’re the right fit. Click here to inquire and take the first step toward a beautifully intentional home.

📍 Proudly serving Athens, GA, Oconee County, and surrounding communities throughout Northeast Georgia and beyond 

💌 Book a complimentary call with us to discuss your project!