Key Takeaways
| Main Points | Details |
|---|---|
| Consultation Fees | $50 – $200 per hour |
| Cost Per Room | $450 – $1,500 for design only |
| Cost Per Square Foot | $5 – $12 for consultation, design work, and furnishings |
| National Average Cost | $5,406 |
| Fee Structures | Hourly rates, square footage rates, and fixed or flat rates |
Cost To Hire Interior Designer Or Decorator
Hiring an interior designer or decorator comes with various cost structures and can cover consultation fees, design work, and furnishings. Understanding the typical costs involved can help you budget accordingly.
$50 – $200 Consultation Fees Per Hour
Consultation fees range from $50 to $200 per hour. These fees cover the initial meeting where the designer assesses your space and understands your needs and preferences.
$450 – $1,500 Cost Per Room (Design Only)
Design-only costs for individual rooms range from $450 to $1,500. This fee usually covers the planning and design phases but does not include furnishings or additional materials.
$5 – $12 Cost Per Square Foot (Consultation, Design Work, & Furnishings)
Comprehensive services that include consultation, design work, and furnishings cost between $5 and $12 per square foot. This cost structure often suits larger projects involving multiple rooms or entire homes.
Interior Designer Cost
| National | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Minimum Cost | $449 |
| Maximum Cost | $50,000 |
| Average Range | $1,893 to $11,180 |
Interior Design Price List
| Charge Type | Cost Range | Average |
|---|---|---|
| 1-Hour Consultation (In-Home) | $50 – $450 | $200 |
| Per Hour | $50 – $450 | $150 |
| Per Square Foot | $5 – $17 | $9 |
| Per Room (+ Furnishings) | $1,000 – $12,000 | $3,200 |
| Per Room (Design Only) | $449 – $1,499 | $975 |
| Cost Plus (Designer’s Markup) | 17% – 45% | 30% |
| Markup on Retail | 10% – 35% | 22% |
| Percent of Construction Cost | 10% – 30% | 20% |
How Much Do Interior Designers Charge?
The way interior designers charge for their services can vary significantly based on the scope of the project and the designer’s expertise. Here’s an overview of the fee structures you might encounter.
Interior Design Fees Structure
| Fee Structure | Details |
|---|---|
| Designer’s Experience | Junior Designer $ Average Designer $$ Principal Designer $$$ |
| Purchase Fees | Different percentages on top of the cost of items like rugs, lamps, sofas, etc. |
| CAD Drawings | CAD and architectural drawings cost extra. |
| Management Fee | Typically 25% of the job. |
| Travel Fees | ½ of the designer’s hourly rate. |
| Reimbursable Expenses | Proven with receipts for out-of-pocket expenses. |
Interior Design Payment Structure
| Payment Structure | Details |
|---|---|
| Retainer or Deposit | Nonrefundable upfront deposit of 10% of estimated project cost. |
| Design Fee Installments | 1 @ 50% 2 @ 10% 3 @ 15% 4 @ 15% |
| Product Deposit | Firms may require 50% deposit for furnishings they will purchase. |
| Late Fees | X% per day/week/month. |
Interior Design Consultation Fee
Consultation may involve an initial meeting to discuss your project’s scope, potential designs, and costs. This usually ranges between $50 and $200 per hour. The consultation fee can vary based on the designer’s experience and geographical location.
Interior Designer Hourly Rate
| Charge Type | Cost Per Hour |
|---|---|
| Junior Designer | $50 |
| Average Range | $80 – $200 |
| Top Professional Designer | $450 |
Interior Design Cost Per Square Foot
| Square Feet | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| 1,000 | $4,400 – $12,400 |
| 1,500 | $6,600 – $18,700 |
| 2,000 | $8,800 – $24,900 |
| 2,500 | $11,000 – $31,000 |
| 3,000 | $13,100 – $37,300 |
| 3,500 | $15,300 – $43,500 |
| 4,000 | $17,500 – $49,800 |
Interior Decorating Cost Per Room
Online interior decorators’ costs can vary based on the room and the level of service required. Here is a breakdown of costs for different rooms in your home:
Online Interior Decorator Costs Per Room – Design Only
| Room | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Living Room | $600 – $1,400 |
| Dining Room | $500 – $900 |
| Living & Dining Room | $700 – $1,300 |
| Bedroom | $550 – $1,300 |
| Home Office | $500 – $1,100 |
| Kitchen | $600 – $1,500 |
| Entry/Hall | $450 – $700 |
| Bath | $600 – $1,400 |
| Patio | $450 – $1,400 |
| Nursery | $500 – $1,100 |
Freelance Interior Designer Day Rates
Freelance interior designers might charge on a per-day basis. Day rates can provide more flexibility for smaller projects or clients needing sporadic design input.
Cost Plus, Commission, Or Percentage Fees
| Type of Markup | Percentage-Based Fees |
|---|---|
| % of Construction Cost | 10% – 30% |
| % of Furnishings | 10% – 35% |
| Cost Plus | 17% – 45% |
Fixed Or Flat Rates
For some projects, designers might offer a fixed or flat rate instead of hourly or square footage rates. This structure can provide more predictability in costs.
Design Fee
A design fee might be a lump sum charged for the project’s entirety or divided into various phases such as initial design, mid-project revisions, and final approval and implementation.
Management Fee
A management fee, often around 25% of the project cost, is typically added to cover the coordination and oversight of the project.
Retainer Or Deposit
Most designers require an upfront retainer or deposit, usually nonrefundable, constituting about 10% of the estimated project cost.
What Is An Interior Designer?
An interior designer is a professional who plans, researches, coordinates, and manages such enhancement projects. They are tasked with creating spaces that are both functional and visually appealing.
What Do Interior Designers Do?
Interior designers assess the needs, preferences, and budget of clients to deliver custom design solutions. They manage the entire project, including planning, procurement, and installation.
Is An Interior Designer Worth It?
Hiring an interior designer can save you time, reduce stress, and help you avoid costly mistakes. Their extensive knowledge and professional connections can also provide valuable resources and options you might not find on your own.
How Do Interior Designers Get Paid?
Interior designers earn their fees through various structures such as hourly rates, commissions, and percentage fees on furnishings and constructions costs.
Interior Decorator vs. Home Designer
Interior Decorators
Interior decorators focus primarily on the aesthetic aspects of a space. They work on elements like color schemes, furniture arrangements, and decorative accessories.
Interior Designers
Interior designers cover both the functionality and aesthetics of a space. This includes structural changes, lighting design, and architectural details alongside interior decor.
How To Prepare For An Interior Decorator
Before meeting with an interior decorator, clarify your tastes, preferences, and budget. Gather inspiration images and ideas, and be prepared to discuss your goals and expectations for the space.
Interior Designer FAQs
How Much Does A Painter And Decorator Cost?
Painters and decorators generally charge based on the room’s size, the complexity of the job, and the materials used. Typical costs range from $200 to $500 per room.
How Much Do Interior Designers Make?
Interior designers’ earnings vary based on experience, location, and reputation. Average salaries range from $40,000 to $80,000 per year, but top designers can earn significantly more.
Commercial Interior Design Costs
Commercial interior design projects tend to cost more due to larger spaces and more complex requirements. Expect prices ranging from $50,000 to $100,000 or more depending on the scope and scale of the project.
Hiring an Interior Designer
Hiring the right interior designer involves researching their work, reading reviews, and conducting interviews to find someone whose style and experience align with your needs.
How To Hire A Decorator
To hire a decorator, begin by identifying potential candidates through online searches, referrals, or design associations. Meet with them to discuss your project and request portfolio samples and references.
Interior Design Associations
Associations such as the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) and the International Interior Design Association (IIDA) can provide resources and directories to help you find qualified professionals.
Interior Design On A Budget
Even if you’re on a tight budget, you can still benefit from professional design services. Consider hiring a designer for a one-time consultation, focusing on key areas, or seeking out freelance designers for more affordable rates.
By understanding the various cost structures and services offered by interior designers, you can make informed decisions about how to achieve the home or office of your dreams while staying within your budget.
