How much does an interior designer cost in 2023?
When considering hiring an interior designer, it’s important to take into account the variations in prices and services that exist depending on the designer and their fee structure.
Some interior designers charge an hourly rate, while others offer flat rates. Some are based on a commission percentage calculated on the total cost of the project. In all cases, knowing your options is essential to making an informed decision.
In an age of do-it-yourself Internet tutorials and 30-minute renovation shows, you’d think the cost of interior design would be easy to determine.
However, in reality, the price of interior design is determined by several important factors. Here’s a guide to the real cost of an interior designer and advice on how to make the right choice.
Average cost of an interior designer
On average, the cost of a classic interior designer ranges from $2,000 to $12,000, excluding furniture costs. Fortunately, new alternatives such as online interior design services can save you up to $1,000.
Costs for online interior design services typically range from $79 to $1,849, with fixed fees. Launching a project online is a cost-effective way to collaborate with professional interior designers quickly and easily.
The advantage of online interior design is that you can work at your own pace and preview the result before making any purchases. However, traditional interior design services also have their own advantages.
Beyond the simple choice of colors for walls or decorative cushions for a sofa, the cost of interior design includes many other elements. The role of professional interior designers is as follows:
- Follow and pass rigorous certification programs.
- Create computer renderings for better visualization of the space.
- Efficiently manage contractors, electricians, painters and other professionals.
- Find, buy and install products through an extensive network of furniture stores and designers.
Hiring an interior designer has many advantages, whether in person or online. However, it’s essential to know the real costs in advance to determine whether interior design fits your budget.
Key questions about interior designer costs
Before hiring an interior designer, it’s useful to answer a few key questions to determine the estimated cost:
What is the scope of the project?
Determine whether you simply want to revamp your living room with new paint and decor, or whether you’re planning a complete bathroom renovation.
It’s essential to be clear and realistic about what can be taken on board in order to better control the cost of interior design, as levels of complexity and expertise can vary.
How big is your space?
The size of your space will certainly have an impact on the cost of interior design. Designing layout options and finding rooms for a large living room will take more time than for a small apartment.
What’s your budget?
Your budget really drives the project. Start by making a list of the must-haves for your space, then, if your budget allows, add extra items that aren’t strictly necessary.
This way, you can achieve a stunning interior without breaking the bank. Be sure to leave room for unforeseen costs such as repairs, shipping costs or parts you’ve fallen in love with.
Hourly rates for interior designers
Paying by the hour is one of the simplest ways to remunerate interior designers. Hourly rates can vary from $50 to $500 or more per hour. This pricing structure is particularly suitable for small projects requiring little time.
The hourly cost includes travel, site visits, time spent shopping, e-mail or telephone exchanges, and any other time indirectly related to your project. However, it does not include the cost of furniture or materials.
Interior design package
Depending on the size and needs of your project, some interior designers offer flat rates. The contract and quotation will clearly specify what is included in this fee, as well as the number of revisions available and the contract expiry date (i.e. the end date of the project).
The costs of an interior designer are often based on a flat-rate structure, as it’s easier to estimate the work required when there are no complex architectural needs.
Monthly payment to interior designer
This payment model involves an agreed amount for interior decoration, which is paid monthly in advance until the work is completed. It’s important to draw up a clear contract defining the designer’s expectations, particularly with regard to services, communication, working hours, etc.
Pricing based on interior surface area
Interior design pricing is based on the square footage of the project. To illustrate this, let’s take the example of Lori Dennis, an interior design expert from Los Angeles.
Suppose a 10,000-square-foot property, including 6,000 square feet of outdoor space, is billed at $6 per square foot. In this case, interior design costs would amount to $96,000. This pricing structure is generally used for large spaces such as hotels and commercial projects.
Commission
Rather than charge an hourly rate, some interior designers prefer to buy furniture, decorations and other supplies at a discount, then charge you the retail price, keeping the difference as a fee.
Others may apply a mark-up charge, similar to a tip (usually 20%), retaining a percentage of the total cost of furniture and supplies.
Whichever method you use, we recommend that you obtain copies of purchase receipts to verify the amounts paid. It’s also a good idea to ask the interior designer for cost estimates to make sure it fits your budget.
Percentage
The price of interior design can also be calculated according to the total budget (construction, materials, etc.). The interior designer’s fees are calculated by applying a percentage to the total cost.
Know your style
It’s natural to appreciate different interior design styles, such as modern and rustic.
However, if your Pinterest boards feature a variety of color palettes and design styles, it can be difficult to communicate your preferences to your interior designer, potentially wasting time and money.
It can be useful to take interior design style questionnaires to refine your preferences. Having a clear design direction can speed up the project and reduce interior design costs.
Determine your interior design needs
Start by determining which existing elements you want to keep or integrate into your new design. This will let your designer know exactly what new pieces you’ll need to buy, and help keep your budget under control.
If you have a limited budget, knowing your needs will also help you find an affordable interior designer. In general, if your needs are simple, the costs of an interior decorator will be lower than those of an interior designer.
Choosing the right designer
Researching interior designers is essential. Take into account their certifications, professional training and years of experience, and consult their portfolios and customer reviews.
Your budget for an interior designer or decorator need not be exorbitant. The tips mentioned above, along with other articles on the cost of an interior designer, can help you approach your interior design project in an informed and prepared way, while keeping an eye on your expenses.
Thanks for reading! We hope this article has helped you!
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