How New Tariffs Are Shaking Up Vancouver’s Interior Design Industry
If you’re planning a home renovation in Vancouver or Vancouver Island, brace yourself - import tariffs are here to make things interesting (read: more expensive).
Whether you’re a homeowner eyeing a remodel or an interior designer sourcing materials, these new trade policies are shifting the cost of everything from custom furniture to high-end lighting.
So, what does that mean for you? Let’s Break it down.
What’s Up with These Tariffs?
Recently, the Canadian government introduced higher import tariffs on key building materials like:
Lumber & wood products (yes, even in B.C., where we basically breathe trees)
Steel and aluminum (good luck with that industrial-style kitchen)
Textiles and upholstery (sofa prices? Going up.)
Luxury home decor from overseas (bye-bye, cheap Italian marble)
These tariffs are a response to global trade disputes and efforts to protect local industries. But for Vancouver’s interior design scene, it means higher costs, longer wait times, and some serious creative problem-solving.
Photos Source: pinterest.com
How This Impacts Vancouver & Vancouver Island Interior Design
Let’s talk about the real effects.
Renovation Costs Are Rising
Expect higher prices on flooring, cabinetry, and fixtures - especially if you love imported European designs. If your kitchen reno was quoted at $50K last year, it might be closer to $60K now.
Longer Lead Times
Designers and contractors are waiting months for materials that used to arrive in weeks. That dreamy light fixture from Spain? It’s either stuck at customs or costs twice as much to ship.
Custom Is the New Normal
With tariffs driving up import costs, more people are turning to local artisans and custom furniture makers. The upside? You get unique, handcrafted pieces. The downside? You’re paying a premium.
Photo Source: Scott & Scott Architects from Arch Daily
The Silver Lining: Supporting Local & Sustainable Design
It’s not all bad news. If anything, this is a push towards sustainable interior design in Vancouver. Here’s how:
More Locally Sourced Materials
B.C. has some of the best sustainable wood and reclaimed materials—now’s the time to embrace them.
Want a statement piece? Check out local sawmills, reclaimed wood shops, and artisan builders.
Vancouver-Made Furniture & Decor
Instead of importing, explore brands like Lock & Mortice, Union Wood Co., or Scott & Scott Architects for sleek, West Coast-inspired pieces.
Custom upholstery shops in Vancouver can rework existing furniture instead of buying new.
Upcycling & Vintage Trends
Tariffs make new imports pricier, but thrifted and refurbished furniture? Still a steal.
Vancouver’s vintage scene (hi, Main Street and Commercial Drive!) has some of the best mid-century and eclectic finds.
Photo Source: Scott & Scott Architects from Arch Daily
How to Design Smart in a Tariff-Heavy Market
Plan Ahead
Order materials WAY in advance. Delays are inevitable, so start shopping early.
Consider Alternatives
Instead of Italian tiles, try B.C.-made concreted tiles. Instead of European steel, go for local blacksmiths and metalworkers.
Budget for Inflation
That quote from last year? Add 10-20% more just to be safe. It’s the reality of renovating in 2025.
Photo Source: pinterest.com
