You’re not alone if you’ve ever wanted a total home refresh. Every homeowner wants a comfortable and chic space, but few people have the eye for design that successfully accomplishes both goals. Enter professional interior designers. Not only are interior designers trained on the ins and outs of design styles, but they are also intimately familiar with color theory, virtual design, and project management.
When you’re on the hunt for the right professional, there are several factors to consider before you make a decision. Which styles do they specialize in? What is the lead time for a project? Do they have connections with furniture companies?
These questions are all important, but we are willing to bet your biggest question is, “How much does an interior designer cost?”. After all, a design can only go as far as your wallet can. However, many people forget you’re not paying for throw pillows and paint swatches when hiring someone to design your home. When you hire an interior designer, you’re paying for convenience, total project management, peace of mind, and years of experience & schooling to back it up. An interior decorator is worth much more than their price tag.
How Much Does an Interior Decorator Cost?
Here are some of the most common ways professionals charge for their services and some fees you may not have considered. They include consultation fees, cost per hour, and project fees.
Consultation Fee
Some designers charge a fee for an initial consultation to review your tastes, likes & dislikes, and budget. A consultation typically lasts about an hour, and interior decorators generally charge accordingly. An initial consultation can cost between $50 and $250, depending on the hourly rate. Some professionals, however, don’t charge a consultation fee at all—though it’s rare. As with hiring anyone, research before sitting down for a consultation.
Pay-by-Hour
Most designers charge by the hour for their services. Typically, you can expect an hourly fee of around $150, but a designer’s rate can range between $50 and $500 per hour. Considered the simplest way to pay an interior designer, the pay-by-hour method doesn’t include furniture or additional materials.
Pay-by-Project
Depending on the needs and scope of your home project, your interior decorator may charge a flat fee for their services. The contract should list precisely what is included in this fee.
By the Square Foot
In this option, your space’s square footage determines your interior designer’s cost. Larger spaces will cost more, and smaller spaces will cost less. Paying by square foot is a common practice for commercial design.
Complimentary Design
Hold on. Did we just say “complimentary design”? That’s right! At San Francisco Design, we don’t charge for our interior design services when a customer purchases. When you buy furniture for your home’s design or remodel, the design is on us! We provide everything from the initial consultation & design planning to project coordination & execution, free of charge. We don’t stop there, however. When you book a whole home design process with our professionals, we provide a discount on our furniture. What could be better than that?
What to Consider Before Meeting With a Designer
Before you meet with an interior decorator, there are a few things you need to know about yourself and your home. Consider these things before meeting with a designer:
Your Budget
One of the most important things you should know before starting a project with an interior designer is how much you can spend. Interior design projects, in particular, must have a clear budget before jumping in. Whatever your budget, give yourself some room to breathe in case you run into unexpected expenses.
Your Style
Before you meet with anyone about designing your home, you should have a good idea of the overall style you’re looking for. You don’t need to know everything about your style, but saying “I like a lot of things” won’t cut it. Don’t be afraid to be picky when you talk to your designer; make it very clear what you’d like to have in your home.
On the flip side, you should clearly know what you dislike when meeting your designer. There’s nothing wrong with having a list of things you’re NOT looking for. After all, you’re the one who will see it every day!
Interior Design at SFD
San Francisco Design has the expertise to transform your home’s interior, regardless of style, budget, or project scope. Our Utah-based interior designers are professionals who are incredibly skilled at what they do. If you want the space of your dreams, hire us to do it for you! Contact us today to get started on your next project and get all the info on costs & hourly rates.
