Navigating Tariffs & The Economy As a Designer and Small Business

Having been in business for 33 years, we have walked with clients through many different economic shifts. In today’s design industry, tariffs are simply one of the many factors we manage on your behalf. As your design team, we are prepared to lead you through a successful design project so you can focus on what matters most: creating a beautiful, livable space you love.

We know increased tariffs raise costs, but many of our trusted vendors have been absorbing those expenses or using tiered pricing based on product sourcing—helping to minimize the impact. Categories like imported stone, quartz, furniture, lighting, and textiles have seen some changes, but for our clients, the difference has been marginal.

That said, we understand the conversation around tariffs can cause uncertainty, and it’s natural to feel hesitant. However, our decades of experience and long-standing vendor relationships allow us to guide you forward with clarity and peace of mind.

One of the greatest advantages of working with an experienced design firm is the strength of our vendor relationships. We have spent decades building trust with manufacturers and reps. Our partners have prioritized our clients by honoring pre-tariff pricing, offering discounts, and helping us time orders strategically.

Another way we help clients navigate tariffs is through thoughtful design choices. At the heart of Kirkendall Design is the belief that good design should be as personal as a signature. We blend your meaningful heirlooms and collected items with new furniture to create interiors that feel fresh, personal, and timeless. By combining custom and ready-made furniture with existing items, we can adapt to pricing changes without compromising your design goals.

At the end of the day, our team is here to guide you. Tariffs may change, but our commitment to transparency and trust will remain the same. We are grateful to walk through this process with you—and are committed to creating a home that tells your story!