
Interior designers often juggle creative vision with the practicalities of running a business. But in the middle of sourcing materials, dealing with clients, and bringing design concepts to life, one crucial aspect is often overlooked—accounting. Partnering with skilled accountants for interior designers professionals can significantly improve your tax efficiency, especially when it comes to the deductions you might not even know exist.
Tax isn’t just about ticking boxes once a year. If you’re an interior designer in the UK, primarily self-employed or operating as a limited company, tax planning should be woven into your business strategy. Many designers lose thousands annually simply because they don’t fully understand what they can claim—and what they shouldn’t.
Let’s take a look at some of the deductions you might be missing and how working with experienced accountants can turn your tax return into a tool for financial growth.
The Overlooked Power of Business Expenses
Every time you invest in your design business, you’re likely making a tax-deductible expense. Yet many interior designers either underclaim or keep poor records, leaving money on the table. Typical expenses such as office supplies, laptop upgrades, design software subscriptions, and even mood boards can often be deducted.
But what about the less obvious ones? Travel to client sites, home office usage, phone bills, internet, and even marketing costs like website hosting or Instagram ad spend—all these can be considered legitimate business costs. Specialist accountants for interior designer professionals will ensure you’re claiming what’s yours without crossing any HMRC red lines.
Home Office? That Counts Too
Many interior designers operate from home, especially in the early stages. If you’re using part of your home for admin, client calls, design planning, or even product storage, that space might qualify for a tax deduction.
You don’t need a separate room to claim it either. Accountants familiar with HMRC rules for freelancers and creatives can calculate your allowable portion based on floor space or time used—whichever is more beneficial. It’s small percentages like these that, when added up, can lead to meaningful tax relief.
Travel, Meals & Client Entertainment
Travelling to site visits, sourcing trips, or client consultations? That mileage can be claimed, provided it’s documented correctly. For business-related travel in your car, HMRC permits a flat fee per mile. Trains, buses, and even taxis fall under allowable expenses, as long as you can show it’s for business.
And while you can’t claim your morning coffee, meals taken during client meetings or on a work trip might be deductible. Navigating what’s claimable and what’s not is tricky, but accountants for interior designer businesses know where to draw the line.
Professional Fees and Training
Membership costs to expert enterprises, just like the British Institute of Interior Design (BIID), are frequently tax-deductible. Likewise, investing in continued education through short courses, seminars, or design certifications not only enhances your skillset but can usually be written off against tax—provided it relates directly to your work.
An accountant with industry-specific experience can guide you on what qualifies as allowable training costs, so you’re not guessing your way through deductions.
Software and Digital Tools
From AutoCAD to Adobe Creative Cloud, digital tools are essential to modern interior design. Most designers rightly claim these as business expenses. However, subscriptions to client management systems, project planning tools, and even cloud storage can also be included.
The issue is rarely about what’s deductible—it’s about consistency and evidence. During an audit, your claims might be rejected if you don’t have clear usage records or receipts.. With experienced accountants for interior designer professionals in your corner, you’ll have systems in place that protect your deductions year-round.
Marketing, Branding, and Web Presence
Marketing is no longer optional. Whether it’s paying a photographer for portfolio shoots, hiring someone to manage your Instagram account, or investing in SEO for your website, these costs support your business growth and are often deductible.
An accountant will not only ensure you claim these costs but also provide adequate advice on separating personal and business branding expenses, especially when the lines blur. For example, a photoshoot that also includes personal shots might not be fully deductible.
Capital Allowances and Long-Term Assets
Large purchases like computers, printers, office furniture, or even a business vehicle may qualify for capital allowances. These can either be claimed in full under the Annual Investment Allowance or depreciated over time.
Understanding which route is most tax-efficient depends on your income and plans. That’s where accountants for interior designer professionals bring immense value—they align your claims with your business goals.
Don’t Forget About VAT
If your interior design business is approaching the VAT threshold—or if you’re already registered—there are additional deductions and complications. Whether you’re on the flat-rate scheme or the standard VAT scheme, claiming back VAT on purchases can seriously improve cash flow.
However, VAT errors are also common among creatives. Whether it’s claiming VAT on ineligible items or charging VAT to the wrong clients, penalties can be costly. A VAT-trained accountant will ensure you stay compliant while making the most of your return.
Why You Need a Specialist Accountant
In actuality, not every accountant is created equal. A generalist might help with basic tax filing, but they often miss the nuances of creative businesses. Interior designers, like all creatives, have unique income patterns, seasonal fluctuations, and unconventional expense categories.
Partnering with accountants who understand your world as an interior designer professional ensures your finances are optimised for success. They won’t just prepare your tax return—they’ll help forecast cash flow, manage HMRC deadlines, and make informed business decisions that support your creative growth.
Final Thoughts
Designing spaces is your strength—navigating HMRC rules probably isn’t. But the good news is, you don’t have to do it alone. With the proper support, you can turn tax season from a stressful experience into a strategic advantage.
At JungleTax, we help interior designers like you find and claim every deduction you’re entitled to. From initial consultation to full-service tax support, we’re with you every step of the way. Whether you work solo or run a growing design firm, our accounting experts know how to back your creativity with thoughtful financial planning.
Just a call or click away – Let’s Connect
hello@jungletax.co.uk
0333 880 7974
FAQs
What can interior designers claim on tax in the UK?
Interior designers can typically claim business-related costs such as travel, software, design tools, home office expenses, marketing, and more.
Do I need to be VAT registered as an interior designer?
If your annual turnover exceeds £90,000 (as of 2025), you are legally required to register for VAT. Below that, it’s optional but could be beneficial depending on your expenses.
Is it worth hiring an accountant as a self-employed designer?
Absolutely. A specialist accountant helps you stay compliant, claim all deductions, and ultimately keep more of what you earn—stress-free.