The price of an interior designer and their fees are difficult to pin down. You need to have a clear idea of the needs of each project. Hiring an interior designer is essential when embarking on a renovation or interior design project . Are you one of those people who wonders how much an architect costs? Do you also want to know how their fees are calculated? In that case, this practical guide to interior designer prices is for you!
Hiring an interior design professional is a significant investment. However, it pays off in the long run in terms of the quality and value of your living space. In this article, we will take a detailed look at the different aspects that influence the cost of an interior designer’s work.
We will also discuss their pricing methods. Project study, completion of the work, interior design, and coordination of the various trades are all steps in an interior designer’s mission. Each of these has a significant impact on the total cost of the work. We will also discuss the role of the interior designer and how their services can be integrated with those of the architect.
Finally, we’ll look at how to maximize your budget by choosing the right pricing options, comparing multiple quotes, and communicating effectively with your professional. Knowing an interior designer’s price is one thing, but understanding what’s behind that total is essential for making an informed decision about your interior design project!
What is an interior designer?
An interior designer is a professional who designs and plans interior spaces to meet the needs and desires of clients. They typically work on residential renovation projects, whether primary or secondary residences, or apartment building renovations.
Interior designers are involved in designing and planning room layouts, selecting colors, materials, and furniture, and installing equipment and systems. Interior designers often work closely with other construction professionals, such as contractors, project managers, and tradespeople, to ensure the project runs smoothly and on schedule.
Why use an interior designer?
Working with an interior designer can be a good idea for several reasons, even if it comes at an additional cost. First, interior designers have extensive knowledge of design trends, materials, and colors.
They can help you create an interior space that is not only functional and comfortable, but also stylish and aesthetically pleasing. They can also help you maximize the use of available space, creating creative and innovative solutions for even the smallest spaces.
Additionally, an interior designer can help you save time and money by managing your renovation or decorating project from start to finish. They can manage contractor bids, oversee construction, manage building permits, and coordinate the various teams involved in the project. This helps minimize delays, unexpected expenses, and errors.
The role of the interior designer
The interior designer plays a central role in the transformation of spaces. This professional combines creativity and technical expertise. Interior designers are highly qualified professionals in the field of interior design and apartment renovation.
Whether in Paris or elsewhere, they design and carry out apartment or house renovation projects. They handle everything from simple interior design to complete home redesign. Suffice it to say, the profession of interior designer goes beyond decoration. For good reason, it requires a thorough understanding of both functional and aesthetic aspects.
How much does an interior designer cost?
The cost of an interior designer can vary considerably depending on several factors. These include the size and complexity of the project, the reputation and experience of the interior designer, and the geographic region where the project is located.
Typically, interior designers charge either an hourly rate or a flat rate for the entire project. Hourly rates can range from €50 to €150 per hour, while flat rates for the entire project can range from €10,000 to €50,000, or even more for larger projects.
It’s important to understand that the initial cost of hiring an interior designer can often be offset by the substantial savings achieved throughout the project. The experience and expertise of these professionals translates into more efficient resource management, reducing unexpected costs.
Here is a table of prices charged by an interior designer according to their mission:
Mission | Description | Average price |
Advice | Home visit and advice on fitting out your home | 150 € – 300 € |
Preliminary draft | Survey of existing buildings, 2D and 3D layout proposal, mood board | 800 € – 2 500 € |
Complete study | Execution plans, descriptive notes, work monitoring | 8% – 15% of the amount of work excluding tax |
Construction site monitoring | Coordination of craftsmen, acceptance of works | 10% – 15% of the amount excluding tax of the work |
Investing in an interior designer not only ensures a professionally designed space, but also ensures rigorous budget management. This proactive approach typically results in substantial savings and the successful realization of your goals. This makes an interior designer an invaluable partner in bringing your vision to life.
What is the average rate per m² for an interior designer?
For a project study mission, the average cost of an interior designer is:
Project type | Surface | Average cost per m² |
Apartment | 50 m² | 80 € – 150 € |
Home | 100 m² | 60 € – 120 € |
Local commercial | 200 m² | 50 € – 100 € |
It should be noted that the cost of a project study mission generally includes these four elements:
- – the survey of the existing,
- – the 2D and 3D layout proposal,
- – the mood board,
- – the costing of the work.
Also, for specific services, additional fees may be charged (e.g.: creation of 3D perspectives, search for furniture, etc.).
Interior designer price for a complete mission
Here is a summary of interior designer prices for a complete project.
Surface | Medium budget |
Studio (20 m²) | 2 000€ – 4 000€ |
One-bedroom apartment (50 m²) | 5 000€ – 10 000€ |
3-room apartment (80 m²) | 8 000€ – 15 000€ |
House (100 m²) | 10 000€ – 20 000€ |
House (200 m²) | 20 000€ – 40 000€ |
Please note that these prices are provided as a guideline. They are, in fact, averages. They may therefore vary depending on the interior designer’s experience, the complexity of the project, the geographic location, and the services included in the project.
Generally speaking, the complete mission of an interior designer includes:
- – The survey of the existing,
- – The 2D and 3D layout proposal,
- – The mood board,
- – Costing of the work,
- – The production of execution plans,
- – Monitoring of work,
- – Acceptance of the works.
To get an accurate quote, you’ll need to clearly define your project in detail (surface area, type of property, desired style, etc.). Contact several interior designers to get quotes and compare them afterward. Also, compare the services offered. Above all, don’t hesitate to negotiate the interior designer price!
Interior Design Project: Should You Hire an Interior Designer?
Interior design and decoration work should begin with space planning. Get rid of unnecessary items and clear pathways to make it easier to move around. This also involves repainting the walls and floor coverings and optimizing the lighting in all rooms (living room, bedrooms, bathroom, kitchen, etc.).
For a customized interior design and decoration for your apartment or house, hiring an expert decorator is now essential. Their advice and services provide important support for revamping each of your rooms, including your living room, kitchen and dining room, bathroom, and even your patio.
The interior designer helps you choose your decorating style and furniture (wood or steel). They also undertake to oversee the craftsmen involved in your design and decoration project. Interior designer fees can vary depending on the room to be renovated. For example, for kitchen design and decoration, they are approximately €490 (excluding VAT), €420 (excluding VAT) for the bathroom, and €390 (excluding VAT) for the bedroom.
Regarding the cost of interior design and decoration for your home, you can expect to pay between €350 and €2,000/m², depending on the scope of the work. In short, apartment renovation is a long and expensive project, especially if the work is comprehensive. Therefore, the advice and support of a professional interior designer are important tools to help you make your project a reality.
How are interior designer prices calculated?
The hourly rate is often chosen for consulting or diagnostic services prior to the purchase of a property. The price per square meter is commonly used to estimate the cost of a project study prior to work, with a sliding scale: as the surface area to be developed or renovated increases, the price per square meter decreases.
For partial or simple assignments, a fixed price may be offered, such as for a design study for one or two rooms, a small area, or specific advice. Finally, a percentage of the cost of the work is commonly used to invoice a complete interior design assignment. This is generally between 8 and 15% of the total amount excluding tax, with the rate decreasing as the cost of the work increases.
If the interior designer’s prices are too high for your budget, you can always apply for assistance to carry out your renovation work .
Interior Designer Pricing: How to Choose the Right Pricing Options?
When choosing the right pricing options for your interior design project, it is essential to consider several factors.
Carefully analyze your needs
First, analyze your needs and the level of service required for your project. Do you have a clear idea of what you want to achieve? Indeed, if you already have a clear vision of your interior design project, an hourly rate may be an attractive option, allowing you to pay only for the time the interior designer actually spends on your project.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more predictable approach in terms of costs, a fixed price may be more appropriate, especially if your project is well-defined and isn’t expected to require many additional hours.
Consider the complexity of your project
Another aspect to consider is the complexity of your project. If it involves multiple steps or requires significant coordination with other construction professionals, a flat fee or a percentage of the total cost of the work may be more advantageous. This allows the interior designer to be fully committed to the success of your project and to offer you personalized support throughout the process.
Compare interior designer prices
It’s also important to request multiple quotes from interior designers and compare their rates. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about what’s included in each proposal to avoid unpleasant surprises during the project. Make sure you understand the details of interior designer rates, including any additional fees and the applicable VAT rate.
Consider the interior designer’s experience
Finally, don’t forget to factor the interior designer’s experience and reputation into your decision. A well-established and highly qualified professional can justify higher fees. This can also guarantee better quality service and a good result.
Entrust your renovation work to a general construction company
Selecting and managing the various tradespeople to carry out renovation work is a major challenge. This is why it’s highly beneficial to enlist the services of a general construction company to bring your project to fruition. This skilled entity already brings together all the necessary trades, including architects, masons, plasterers, heating engineers, plumbers, electricians, and interior designers.
Make your property profitable by getting the best interior designer price!
Hiring an interior designer is a smart decision for your home decorating and renovation projects. These professionals help you create a space that’s both elegant and functional, while also handling complete project management. This choice helps minimize delays and unexpected expenses, ensuring a smoother experience.
Although the initial cost may seem high, it often proves to be a worthwhile investment. Interior designers provide valuable expertise, suggesting innovative solutions and balancing design with practical considerations. Their professional management contributes to long-term savings, making hiring an interior designer a wise choice for effectively realizing your aesthetic aspirations.
