{"version":1,"type":"rich","provider_name":"Libsyn","provider_url":"https:\/\/www.libsyn.com","height":90,"width":600,"title":"Ep 220: Why Your Construction Projects Aren\u2019t Profitable (Even When the Budget Is High)","description":"Construction projects often look like the most profitable work in an interior design business\u2014but behind the scenes, they\u2019re where many designers are the most underpaid. In this episode, Michelle breaks down the hidden disconnect between what designers charge and what construction projects actually require. From the constant decision-making to the mental load that never turns off, she reveals why traditional pricing models fall short\u2014and what needs to shift. If you\u2019ve ever felt busy, overwhelmed, or undercompensated during a renovation or new build, this episode will help you understand why\u2014and what to do about it. What You\u2019ll Learn Why construction projects feel profitable\u2014but often aren\u2019t The hidden responsibilities designers take on during construction The difference between renovation (reactive) vs. new build (proactive) projects Where pricing structures typically break down The real cost of underpricing construction administration How \u201cemotional pricing\u201d quietly hurts your business Why raising your prices alone won\u2019t fix the problem What it actually means to align your pricing with your role Key Takeaways Construction projects don\u2019t just scale in size\u2014they scale in responsibility. As the project grows, so does your mental load, decision-making, and ongoing involvement. Renovations and new builds are not the same. Renovations = reactive, unpredictable, fast decision-making New builds = proactive, structured, vision-driven You\u2019re not just designing\u2014you\u2019re leading. During construction, you become the interpreter, problem-solver, and decision-maker for everyone involved. Flat fees often fail mid-project. What felt like a solid number at the beginning rarely reflects the true scope as the project evolves. Construction administration is not a \u201csmall add-on.\u201d It\u2019s a major, time-consuming, high-responsibility phase that deserves its own pricing structure. If your structure is broken, raising prices won\u2019t fix it. You\u2019ll just charge more for the same exhausting experience. Common Pricing Mistakes Pricing based on initial scope without accounting for project evolution Underestimating time, interruptions, and mental energy Including construction administration inside the design fee Making pricing decisions based on what feels \u201ccomfortable\u201d Keeping fees fixed even as responsibilities expand Mindset Shift Stop asking: \u201cWhat feels fair?\u201d Start asking: \u201cWhat does this role actually require of me?\u201d Because strong pricing isn\u2019t about feelings\u2014it\u2019s about alignment between your responsibility and your compensation. What to Do Instead Separate design and construction phases clearly Define and charge for construction administration Build structure and boundaries into your process Track your time and analyze where your effort is going Price based on responsibility\u2014not just deliverables Final Thought Construction projects aren\u2019t just bigger\u2014they\u2019re heavier. And when your pricing finally reflects that, everything changes: your profitability, your energy, and your life outside the business. What\u2019s Next Next week\u2019s episode dives into furnishings and decorating pricing\u2014and where designers are leaving even more money on the table. Share the Episode Know a designer who\u2019s deep in construction projects and feeling stretched thin? Share this episode with them\u2014it might be exactly what they need to hear. Resources Mentioned Design Revenue Audit A diagnostic deep dive into the financial structure of your design firm, including pricing, procurement, and operational profitability. 90-Day Advisory Private strategic advisory focused on restructuring the revenue side of your design business. VIP Intensive A focused strategy session designed to map out the most efficient path toward a more profitable firm. Learn more at: TheDesignBakehouse.com   ","author_name":"Designed for the Creative Mind\u2122","author_url":"https:\/\/thedesignbakehouse.com\/designed-for-the-creative-mind-pod","html":"