Tariffs: a word that’s been on everyone’s mind for the last few months, with new updates popping up seemingly every day. This week, we asked five designers—Kari Bennett, Sonia Chauhan, Nancy Davilman, Elaina Fagan Darden and Michelle Gerson—how they are keeping clients abreast of the Trump administration’s constantly changing tariff policies and how those rules affect their projects.
Ongoing Dialogue
“As tariffs continue to shift, clarity is key. Rather than relying solely on headlines or outdated online resources, we’re in direct contact with our overseas vendors to get the most current, accurate information straight from the source. This ongoing dialogue allows us to assess real-time implications and communicate honestly with our clients about how these changes may affect their budgets, timelines and overall project scope. In response, we’re expanding the range of sourcing options we present—offering both domestic and international manufacturing pathways—so clients can make informed decisions that balance cost, speed and quality. In today’s environment, adaptability and transparency aren’t just nice to have—they’re essential to delivering successful outcomes.” —Kari Bennett, EdgeID, Salt Lake City
Open Communication
“When the panic set in about tariffs, we received a lot of emails and notices from vendors concerned about upcoming price increases. Thankfully, we had been given notice and were able to place some orders ahead of the changes, which was very helpful. We’ve been transparent with our clients right from the jump. We’re all navigating the same global realities, and unfortunately, tariffs are one of those unavoidable challenges affecting everyone across all industries—not just design. In some cases, we’ve had to pivot and reselect materials from places that were not charging tariffs. But the most important thing to us has always been maintaining open and honest lines of communication with our clients. Clear expectations go a long way in building trust, especially when external factors are out of everyone’s control.” —Michelle Gerson, Michelle Gerson Interiors, New York
Have a backup
“Tariffs are one of those behind-the-scenes factors clients don’t usually think about until they see the invoice. In recent years, fluctuating import taxes have significantly impacted furniture, lighting and material costs, especially when sourced from overseas. The truth is, these added costs are completely out of our hands as designers, and even our trade vendors are often at the mercy of sudden price increases. When that happens, I lead with transparency. I call out any tariff-affected items early on, and when possible, I’ll offer comparable alternatives at a similar price point. If a client loves a particular piece, we talk through the pros and cons of sticking with it versus exploring other options. Setting clear expectations from the very beginning and explaining the ‘why’ behind price changes has made a big difference. Clients appreciate being kept in the loop, as it builds a trustworthy foundation and helps us navigate any curveballs together.” —Sonia Chauhan, Marble & Marigold Design, Chicago
Know Where to Source
“I predominantly source my furniture from a to-the-trade showroom that’s very proactive in communicating all tariff information they receive from their vendors. Even before the additional tariffs were imposed, I’ve always explained the costs that go above and beyond the net price of the goods being purchased. Because of this, tariffs have naturally become part of that initial conversation. I believe in being completely transparent with clients, and I think it’s important for them to understand both the costs they’ll incur and the fact that these fees are entirely out of my control.” —Nancy Davilman, ND Interiors, Stamford, Connecticut
Upfront and Ready
“With any project, there are expenses like sales tax, shipping, storage and installation costs that a client may not think about factoring into their budget at first. I always make a point to have a transparent conversation about these at the very beginning of the project, and now tariffs will be a part of that conversation as well.” —Elaina Fagan Darden, Elaina Darden Interiors, San Antonio, Texas
