7 Essential Tools for Professional Interior Designers
When you’re just starting out or even a few years into the game, it’s easy to assume that interior designers need an entire library of samples, a grand drawing desk, and more tech than a spaceship. Been there. Tried that. Turns out, you really don’t need everything to get the job done well.
After years in the industry, I’ve learnt to strip it back. These are the essential tools for interior designers that I actually use day-to-day. No fluff. No overwhelm. Just the things that make my life easier, keep clients happy, and projects rolling.
Hi 👋 I’m Jacqueline from The Glade Design. I specialise in residential interiors. Check out my services or email me to chat. New design tips and home inspo every week—subscribe for exclusive content!
1. A Good iPad or Tablet (with a Pen!)
I use it for everything—site visits, client meetings, mood boards, sketching, note-taking, measuring rooms, you name it. Instead of lugging around folders of paper, I keep it all digital and streamlined. It’s my brain in a screen.
My favourite tools on the iPad:
Morpholio Trace
Perfect for sketching directly over plans or photos. You can layer ideas, mark up designs, and it feels surprisingly close to old-school tracing paper—but better.
Notability
My go-to for taking notes during site visits or meetings. You can type, handwrite, record voice notes, even insert images—all in one neat space.
And of course, I link everything to the cloud (Dropbox, iCloud, Google Drive—whichever floats your boat) so I can access files anywhere, anytime.
2. Design (CAD) Software
Now let’s talk about one of the essential tools for interior designers: design software. If you’re working as a professional, this is non-negotiable. You need to choose the right software to produce 3D renders, working drawings, and technical documentation. But here’s the good news—there’s no one-size-fits-all rule, especially if you’re freelancing or running your own design studio.
Here are a few popular options, with key features to help you decide what suits your workflow best:
Revit
This is my personal favourite. I use it primarily for kitchen and bathroom projects—it’s like an all-in-one powerhouse. You can do both 3D modelling and 2D construction documentation in the same file.
- Ideal for architectural and detailed design
- Integrated 3D and 2D workflow
- Smart object-based modelling (not just lines and boxes)
- Great for producing detailed plans and renders from a single model
Yes, it has a learning curve, but once you get the hang of it, it’s magic.
SketchUp
Super popular and incredibly beginner-friendly. Great for decorators and stylists who want to quickly visualise furniture layouts or room concepts.
- Easy to learn, fast to use
- Tons of free 3D models available
- Great for early-stage design and concept presentations
- Works well for rendering when paired with tools like V-Ray
I personally don’t use it anymore because Revit covers my needs—but many designers swear by it for visual storytelling.
AutoCAD
The OG of drafting tools.
- Best for precise 2D technical drawings
- Common in architectural firms and construction documentation
- Not ideal for rendering or visualisation alone—use it alongside a 3D program
ArchiCAD
A solid alternative to Revit.
- Intuitive interface
- Great for team collaboration
- Streamlined workflow from concept to documentation
3ds Max
For those high-end, photorealistic renders that make clients say “wow.”
- Best suited for advanced visualisation
- Often used by architects, set designers, and CGI pros
- Steeper learning curve and requires serious computer power
Chief Architect
Popular in the US for residential design.
- Great for kitchen and bathroom planning
- Fast layout tools
- Built-in cabinet libraries and automated dimensions
3. A Computer That Can Handle Your Software
Let’s keep it real—choosing the right computer is just as important as the software itself. One of the essential tools for interior designers is a machine that can actually run your programs without crashing mid-render.
If you’re using something like Revit (like me), you’ll need a powerful computer—and sorry, Mac users, Revit doesn’t run on Apple unless you use a virtual machine (which is a pain). So Windows it is.
💻 Pro tip:
You don’t need both a laptop and a desktop to start. When I first launched my business, I only had one trusty laptop that did everything. Later on, I added a desktop with a bigger screen—which turned out to be a game changer, especially since I work from home.
Here’s what to consider when picking your setup:
- Graphics card: Essential for 3D rendering
- RAM: At least 16GB (32GB is even better)
- Processor: Go for Intel i7 or AMD Ryzen 7 and above
- Storage: SSD is a must for speed
- Screen size: Bigger = better for plans and multitasking
Start simple. As your projects grow and you figure out your exact needs, you can upgrade accordingly. Focus on performance, not brand.
4. Planning Tools to Keep It All Together
Interior design isn’t just about mood boards and pretty renderings. It’s about managing everything—clients, timelines, contractors, budgets, deliveries, and that random missing cushion that somehow throws the whole room off.
So planning tools? Yep. They’re 100% one of the essential tools for interior designers.
You need a system to track all the moving parts. Every project has a million little tasks, and if you don’t have a process, you’ll drown in sticky notes and mental to-do lists.
It also helps you answer big questions like:
- How many projects can I take on at once?
- How long will each type of project take?
- What tasks repeat in every project?
- Where do my timelines always blow out?
Planning ahead won’t stop every last-minute surprise—but it will help you catch most of them before they become chaos.
My Go-To: Notion
Notion is my project management BFF. I use it for everything—work projects, social media planning, finances, personal journaling, even random business ideas.
Here’s why I love it:
- All-in-one workspace
- Easy to create your own templates
- Visual dashboard where you see everything at a glance
- No switching between to-do lists, notebooks, and apps
And no, I don’t buy pre-made Notion templates. Most of them are too detailed and make me spend more time planning than actually doing. I keep it simple—just the essentials. (See a pattern here? 😉)
Other Planning Tools to Consider
- Trello: Drag-and-drop boards make it great for visual thinkers. Ideal for tracking stages of a project (e.g., concept, sourcing, install).
- Asana: A solid task manager for teams or solo designers juggling lots of jobs. Easy to assign deadlines and track progress.
- ClickUp: Combines project management, docs, goals, and time tracking. Super versatile.
- Google Calendar: Don’t underestimate it. Block your time visually. Schedule site visits, client calls, and even “deep focus” time.
For Social Media Planning: Planoly
There are heaps of content scheduling apps out there, but Planoly is hands-down my favourite.
- Beautiful, clean interface
- Drag-and-drop grid for Instagram layout
- Easy to use—even when you’re half-asleep on a Monday morning
- Auto-posting and hashtag saving
Again, the best tool is the one you’ll actually use. Try a few and see what works for you.
5. AI Tools — Your Secret Design Assistant
Here’s the truth: AI isn’t here to replace us. It’s not going to pick the perfect shade of greige or know your client’s obsession with terrazzo. But as a time-saving sidekick? It’s gold. And yes—it’s earned its place as one of the essential tools for interior designers in 2025 and beyond.
I use AI tools regularly to help speed things up across all sorts of tasks.
How I Use AI in My Design Work:
🖼 Quick 3D visualisation
Perfect for early concept stages. AI helps me whip up fast renders to share ideas with clients—faster feedback means faster approvals.
✍️ Writing support
From consultation reports to email drafts, proposals, blog content (hello!), and fee breakdowns—AI helps structure and polish my writing. I still write it myself, but AI gives it that final touch.
📋 Organisation
- Timeline generation
- Budget calculations
- Product sourcing lists
- Client presentation outlines
🔍 Fast answers
Need to find a regulation update or where to buy a specific sustainable tile? Sometimes asking AI is faster than sifting through 12 browser tabs.
AI is not a replacement for your design intuition, creativity, or style. But it’s absolutely one of the smartest tools to help you do more in less time—and stay focused on the parts of the job that matter most.
6. Measuring Tools That Actually Matter
Design isn’t just about choosing beautiful things—it’s about making sure they actually fit. So yep, proper measuring gear is absolutely one of the essential tools for interior designers.
Whether you’re onsite or in a client meeting, having the right tools on hand will save you from awkward surprises (like realising that dream dining table won’t actually fit through the front door).
Here’s what I keep in my tool kit:
🟡 Big Tape Measure
For full site measures—walls, ceilings, windows, joinery—this is your workhorse. You want something strong, at least 5–8 metres, with a solid lock and good standout.
🟢 Mini Tape (2 Metres)
Perfect for meetings when a client asks, “How long is 300mm?” Whip it out and show them. Great for quick checks on-site without dragging out the heavy-duty gear.
🔴 Laser Measure
This one’s non-negotiable.
- Quick and accurate readings
- Perfect for high ceilings or measuring solo
- Great for when you don’t have a second person to hold the tape
Laser measuring = less fuss, more accuracy, and fewer back-and-forth site visits.
🔵 Angle Finder
This is the underrated gem in the toolbox. Not all walls are perfect 90 degrees—especially in older homes.
- Helps check corners and angles
- Crucial for custom joinery, tiling layouts, or oddly shaped rooms
- Small, but mighty for precision work
A good measuring setup saves time, reduces errors, and gives your projects that polished, professional finish from the get-go.
7. Building Your Material Library (The Smart Way)
Your material library doesn’t have to be a massive showroom. It’s something that grows naturally as you take on projects, explore suppliers, and define your design style. But having some tactile samples on hand? That’s definitely one of the essential tools for interior designers, especially when presenting to clients.
How to Start (Without Overdoing It)
- Visit showrooms: Bring a tote bag, ask questions, and collect samples
- Order online: Most brands let you order swatches for free or a small fee if you’re a designer
- Stick to your style: Don’t collect everything. Only stock materials you’d actually use or recommend
- Label and store neatly: Use folders, drawers, or baskets—whatever works for your space
Why Physical Samples Matter
Online browsing is great, but nothing beats seeing and touching materials in person:
- Feel the texture
- See how it reacts to light
- Compare tones side by side
- Build confidence in your recommendations
You don’t need a showroom-sized collection to start. Just a small, curated selection of fabrics, benchtops, tiles, and finishes you love and trust. Update it as your taste evolves and new products hit the market.
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Keep It Smart, Simple, and Stylish
So there you have it—7 Essential Tools for Professional Interior Designers that I actually use, love, and recommend. No fluff, no hype, just real tools that make your workflow smoother, your projects sharper, and your client experience even better.
Here’s the quick recap:
✅ A powerful tablet for everything from sketching to site meetings
✅ Design software that fits your workflow (not just what everyone else is using)
✅ A reliable computer to keep everything running
✅ Planning tools to help you stay on top of your projects and your sanity
✅ AI tools to boost your productivity (not replace your creativity)
✅ Proper measuring gear for precision (because mm matter)
✅ A growing, curated material library you can actually touch and trust
As a designer—whether you’re fresh in the industry or five years deep—it’s tempting to overbuy and over-plan. But you don’t need every fancy tool out there to do brilliant work. Start with the essentials. Add only what works for you. Keep it streamlined. Keep it smart.
Ready to Level Up Your Design Journey?
🎨 Thinking of renovating your space or need help pulling a look together?
Book a 90-minute interior design consultation with me, and let’s create something beautiful, functional, and uniquely you. Whether it’s layout tips, colour palettes, supplier recs, or a mood board to get you started—I’ve got you.
