Designs by construction2style || Photos by Chelsie Lopez
In the final installment of our Digital Marketing for Designers series, we’re tackling one of the most overlooked, yet powerful tools in your online presence: SEO. Many designers, architects, and builders invest heavily in crafting visually stunning websites—only to find potential clients aren’t discovering them. That’s because a beautiful site alone won’t rank on Google; it needs to be optimized for search.
Fortunately, we have Morgan Molitor of construction2style to guide the way. Here, she breaks down common SEO mistakes, must-have website features, and effective strategies to turn your website into a traffic-generating, client-attracting machine.
MD: What’s your No. 1 piece of advice for industry professionals looking to improve their online marketing strategy today?
MM: Stop overthinking and start showing up consistently. Too many designers get stuck waiting for the perfect post, the perfect website update, or the perfect strategy before putting themselves out there. The reality? Online marketing is about momentum.
Show your work, tell the story behind it, and make it easy for people to understand what you do and how they can work with you. Don’t just post pretty pictures—educate, engage, and create value. Whether it’s through social media, a blog, or email marketing, consistency and clarity will always beat perfection.
Most importantly, make it easy for people to take action. Have a clear call to action, whether it’s booking a consultation, downloading a guide, or signing up for your newsletter. The easier you make it for people to connect with you, the faster you’ll turn followers into clients.
What’s the most common SEO mistake you see designers, builders, and architects making?
[I would say] treating a website like an online portfolio only instead of a traffic-generating tool. Many people overlook key elements like keyword-rich page titles, meta descriptions, and blog content that answers what potential clients are searching for.
Another big mistake is relying too heavily on images without text. Search engines can’t “see” images the way humans do, so if there’s no descriptive alt text or supporting content, that work isn’t helping your rankings.
SEO isn’t just about visibility—it’s about attracting the right audience. A well-optimized site helps industry pros get discovered by homeowners searching for design inspiration, renovations, or professional services. The key is to balance aesthetics with strategy, so every page has a purpose beyond just looking good.
How can professionals optimize their websites to attract more potential clients via Google search?
- Start by using keyword-rich page titles and meta descriptions that reflect what potential clients are searching for. Instead of just “Portfolio” or “Our Work,” use descriptive phrases like “Modern Kitchen Remodels in [Your City]” or “Luxury Interior Design for New Builds.”
- Consistent, valuable content is another key factor. Adding a blog with design tips, project breakdowns, and industry insights not only positions you as an expert but also helps Google recognize your site as relevant and fresh.
- Optimize images with alt text and fast load times. Many design-build pros rely on visuals, but search engines need context. Alt text describing the image helps with rankings, and compressed images improve site speed—both critical for SEO.
- Make sure your site is mobile-friendly and easy to navigate. Most searches happen on mobile, and a slow or clunky site will push potential clients away.
- Lastly, use local SEO strategies by including your location in your website copy, Google My Business profile, and directory listings. People searching for professionals in their area are more likely to find you if you clearly state where you work.
How can blogging boost website traffic and lead generation?
“Blog” can feel like an overused word, which is why many designers shy away from it—they’re not bloggers, after all. But the reality is, you don’t have to call it a blog. Think of it as an article hub, a resource center, or a guide library—whatever fits your brand. It’s simply a space on your website that provides valuable content for potential clients while also working behind the scenes to drive traffic and leads.
When done right, this section of your website becomes a powerful tool. It boosts SEO, helping your site rank higher on Google when people search for design inspiration or services. It establishes credibility by showcasing your expertise through project breakdowns, design tips, and industry insights. It keeps visitors engaged, giving them a reason to stay on your site longer and take action.
Most importantly, it drives lead generation. Every post—whether it’s a design guide, a trend forecast, or a behind-the-scenes project update—can naturally lead potential clients to book a consultation, join your email list, or follow you on social media.
So, whether you call it a blog, journal, resource hub, or something totally unique, the goal remains the same: to create a space that informs, inspires, and attracts your ideal clients.
Want more? Check out Part 1 and Part 2 of our Digital Marketing for Designers series.
