Guide For Understanding the Cost of Hiring an Interior Designer

Importance of Interior Designing for your Home

Well-crafted interiors anticipate how the space will be utilised and create an atmosphere, a vibe apt for the space. A good home designer should be able to optimise the space for functionality and marry it with emotion-evoking aesthetics. While it might seem easy enough to do when broken down as such, there is a lot more that goes into developing the required expertise to be an interior designer.

When interiors can dictate how you use a given space and how it makes you feel, it is natural to want professional help to get it just right. Even so, if we were to quote numbers for home interior design cost or even just an interior design estimate, most people may find them expensive.

Therefore, it is crucial to understand how and why professionals come up with the cost of interior designer services.

A Complete Lowdown on Interior Designer Charges in India

1. What Goes into Becoming an Interior Designer? 

A part of any interior designer cost is their expertise. When you hire professional interior designers, it is not just their service but also their skill and proficiency. Most professionals either have a degree or certifications. Interior designers have a working knowledge of:

• Space planning, colour theory, lighting, textiles, and other materials
• Construction, architecture, safety, and health codes
• Computer-aided design to create layouts, 2D and 3D renderings, and so on

It also requires a high calibre of soft skills since they coordinate between multiple stakeholders, including but not limited to homeowners, architects, engineers, and suppliers of all kinds. Additionally, since interior design is a constantly evolving field, professionals need to keep themselves continuously updated.

2. How Does the Scope of Work Determine the Cost of Interior Designer?

Are you considering hiring interior designers for your home interior design? First, you must be able to define the scope of the work. The scope of work can be determined in multiple aspects, and it all affects the interior designer cost. It depends on the extent of the designer’s involvement. Designing, décor, furniture procurement, flooring, painting, etc., are all different services.

The cost of interior designer will be based on the services that you enlist. Some designers keep to their speciality, for example, styling. This would include changing up just the room’s aesthetics, such as the colour, décor, and layout. If you’re looking for a complete home renovation, there are two ways to do it. You could hire a designer to assemble the entire team, including carpentry, civil work, etc. They would also be in charge of the procurement of materials and furniture in that case. Or you can hire the designer only for the design and separately hire contractors for everything else. In this case, you’d have to liaison between all parties.

The number and types of services and the involvement of the interior designer are two critical factors in deciding the interior designer cost.

4. A General Breakdown of the Cost of Interior Designer

Designers often do not charge a lump sum amount for each project. A quote or the contract will have details of all aspects of the cost. While this would cover many of the charges, there might be situations with unexpected overheads or surcharges.

• The designer’s fee: Some may charge home interior design price as a percentage and others as a lump sum. Consider this as the service charge for the entire project. The average range is 5% to 15% of the total cost.
•  Interior stylists and decorators charge home interior design price anywhere from ₹50 to ₹500 per sq. ft. If furnishing, flooring, false ceiling, etc., are included, the rates may be as high as ₹2000 to ₹4000 per sq. ft.
• Some designers may charge a markup on all the products used in the project.
• Charges for site visitation and supervision are generally labelled as such. The cost would vary depending on the designer, and the rates are calculated on a per-visit basis.
•  Professionals have specific charges for design alone. Most provide 3 to 4 versions during the initial consultations. After the first few iterations, you might be levied a charge for every change you ask for. 3D renderings of designs also are generally charged separately from the floor plans.

5. Your Budget

Having said all of this, it ultimately boils down to your budget. Once you have a set budget, you can look for a designer that can meet your requirements and bring your envisioned living room design to life. They will also guide you and give you a rundown of what services can be included within your budget. Although, remember to always have some room for unexpected charges such as repairs, design iterations, shipping, etc.

Interior Design Pricing for Different Apartment Sizes

1. The Cost For Interior Design Of A 3BHK Flat

A 3bhk interior design cost, which typically ranges from 750 to 1400 sq. ft., can vary between ₹9 lakhs to ₹25 lakhs. This home interior design price range takes into account the scale of the project, the quality of materials used, and the overall complexity of the design. With three bedrooms to design, along with other areas like the living room, kitchen, and bathrooms, a 3BHK flat provides ample opportunity to create a cohesive design that reflects your personal style and meets your functional needs.

2. The Cost For Interior Design Of A 2 BHK Flat

A 2 bhk interior design cost, measuring between 600 to 800 sq. ft., can range from ₹7 lakhs to ₹15 lakhs. This cost includes designing two bedrooms, along with the kitchen, living room, and bathroom(s). The price can fluctuate depending on the extent of the renovation, the types of materials and furnishings chosen, and the designer's fees. Remember, investing in professional interior design for a 2BHK flat can help optimize space, improve functionality, and enhance the overall aesthetics.

3. The Cost For Interior Design Of A 1 BHK Flat

Interior design for a 1BHK flat, which is usually between 400 and 600 sq. ft., can cost anywhere from ₹5 lakhs to ₹8 lakhs. Despite the smaller size, a 1BHK flat can still benefit greatly from thoughtful design. The cost will depend on the scope of the project, the quality of the materials, and the intricacy of the design. Whether you're looking to maximize space with smart storage solutions or create a stylish, comfortable environment, professional interior design can transform your 1BHK flat into a beautiful and practical home.

Room-Wise Interior Design Costs: An Overview

1.  Living Room + Dining Room

The cost for interior design of a combined living room and dining room design can range from ₹2.5 lakhs to ₹5 lakhs. This price encompasses the selection of furniture, lighting, window treatments, and decor, as well as any necessary structural changes. The living room and dining area are often the most used spaces in a home, so investing in their design can create a welcoming and aesthetically pleasing environment for both family members and guests.

2. Kitchen

Kitchen interior design can vary from ₹1.8 lakhs to ₹4.5 lakhs, depending on factors such as the size of the kitchen, the quality of appliances, and the materials chosen for cabinets and countertops. A well-designed kitchen can increase functionality, provide ample storage, and enhance the overall appeal of your home.

3. Bathroom

Bathroom interior design costs can range from ₹30,000 to ₹50,000. This typically includes fixtures, tiles, lighting, and other amenities. The cost can vary based on the size of the bathroom and the quality of the materials chosen. A well-designed bathroom can serve as a relaxing retreat while also meeting all practical needs.

4. Kid’s Bedroom

Interior design for a kid's bedroom can cost between ₹1.5 lakhs and ₹3 lakhs. This includes furniture, storage solutions, decor, and possibly themed designs. The key to designing a child's room is to create a space that is fun, safe, and adaptable to their changing needs as they grow.

5. Guest Bedroom

The cost of interior design for a guest bedroom can range from ₹1.25 lakhs to ₹2.5 lakhs. This involves choosing suitable furniture, decor, and lighting to create a comfortable and welcoming space for guests. The design should reflect the overall style of the home while also providing all the necessary amenities for a pleasant stay.

6. Master Bedroom

A master bedroom's interior design can cost between ₹2 lakhs and ₹3 lakhs. This includes the selection of furniture, wall treatments, lighting, and decor. The master bedroom serves as a personal sanctuary, so it's essential to create a calm, relaxing environment that reflects your personal style.

What Factors Can Influence Interior Designer Cost?

The cost of hiring an interior designer is not one-size-fits-all. It can vary widely based on a multitude of factors, from the scope of your project to the size of your home and even the city you live in. The experience level of the designer and your specific requirements also play significant roles in determining the final cost. Understanding these factors can help you budget appropriately for your interior design project.

● Scope of Work

The scope of work is a crucial factor that influences the interior designer cost. If the project involves extensive renovations, such as knocking down walls, installing new flooring, or redesigning the layout, the cost will be higher. On the other hand, if the project is more about cosmetic changes like choosing paint colors, selecting furniture, and accessorizing the space, the cost will be comparatively lower. Essentially, the more complex and time-consuming the project, the higher the cost.

●  Size of Home

The size of your home directly impacts the cost of interior design. Larger homes with more rooms will naturally require more time, effort, and materials, leading to a higher cost. Moreover, larger spaces might require more furniture, decor items, and possibly custom solutions, all of which can add to the total cost. Conversely, smaller homes might cost less to design, although the per-square-foot cost could potentially be higher due to the need for space-saving solutions.

● Location/City

The city or location where you live can also influence the cost of interior design. In cities with a higher cost of living, you can expect to pay more for interior design services. This is because the cost of materials, labor, and even the designers' fees are typically higher in these areas. Additionally, if your home is located in a remote area where resources and professionals are scarce, this might also increase the cost.

● Experience of Designers

The experience level of the designer you choose to work with will significantly impact the cost. Highly experienced designers with a solid reputation and portfolio can command higher fees. They bring a wealth of knowledge, expertise, and industry connections to the table, which can ensure a smooth process and high-quality results. On the other hand, less experienced or novice designers might charge less, but the process might involve more risks and uncertainties.

● Your requirements

Your specific requirements and design preferences also play a vital role in determining the cost. If you favor high-end, luxury materials, custom-built furniture, and unique decor items, the cost will be higher. Similarly, if your project requires special features like home automation, smart storage solutions, or sustainability-focused design, this could also add to the cost. On the other hand, if you prefer a simple, minimalistic design with budget-friendly materials, the cost will be lower.

What Your External Contractor Won’t Tell You?

Engaging an external contractor for your home project can be a significant decision. While they bring expertise and the necessary resources to the table, there are some things they might not openly share with you.

·       They might mark up materials: Some contractors may mark up the cost of materials to increase their profit margin. They might not disclose this markup, leaving you under the impression that the materials themselves are costly.

·       The lowest bid isn’t always the best: A contractor offering a significantly lower bid than others might seem attractive, but it could indicate a compromise on quality or the use of subpar materials.

·       Delays are common: While contractors might provide an estimated timeline for project completion, delays are common in construction and renovation projects due to unforeseen issues or changes in scope.

·       Subcontracting is frequent: Your contractor might not be the one doing all the work. They often subcontract certain parts of the project to other professionals, which they might not explicitly tell you.

·       Change orders can inflate the final cost: Contractors might provide an initial estimate, but any changes you request after work has begun can result in change orders, which can significantly inflate the final cost.

·       Cleanup may not be included: Post-construction cleanup can be a significant task, but not all contractors include this in their contracts. If not discussed upfront, you might be left with the cleanup work.

Remember, open communication and a well-detailed contract can alleviate most of these concerns. The key is to choose a reputable contractor, clarify all terms before starting the project, and maintain regular communication throughout the process.

Frequently Asked Questions On Interior Designer Cost

How do I compare the cost of different interior designers?

Comparing the cost of different interior designers involves more than just looking at the price they quote. Consider their experience, portfolio, and client reviews. Ask for detailed quotes that break down the cost of materials, labor, and any other expenses. This will give you a better understanding of what you're paying for. Also, consider their design style and if it aligns with your vision. The cheapest designer might not be the best fit for your project, while the most expensive one might offer services you don't necessarily need.

How do you calculate the cost of interior design?

The cost of interior design can be calculated in several ways, depending on the designer. Some charge a flat fee for their services, others charge an hourly rate, and some charge a percentage of the total project cost. The overall cost will include the designer's fee, the cost of furniture and materials, and possibly additional costs for contractors if structural changes are needed. To get an accurate estimate, it's best to discuss your budget, vision, and requirements with the designer.

 When should you hire an interior designer?

Hiring an interior designer is beneficial when you're building a new home, renovating your current home, or when you want to refresh the decor. An interior designer can help you make the most of your space, select the right materials and colors, and ensure that the end result aligns with your vision. If you're feeling overwhelmed by the choices, if you're unsure about how to create a cohesive design, or if you simply lack the time to plan and execute the design, hiring an interior designer could be a wise decision.

How can Beautiful Homes Help you Choose the Best Interior Designer for your Home?

Beautiful Homes by Asian Paints provides a beneficial tool for homeowners, an interior design cost calculator. This intuitive tool assists in planning and executing your dream interior design by providing an accurate and detailed cost estimate based on your specific needs. You simply input the details of your project, and the calculator does the rest, taking the guesswork out of budgeting.

Alongside this, Beautiful Homes also offers a variety of services, making it a one-stop shop for all your interior design needs. With expert interior designers from Beautiful Homes, you can make informed decisions and choose the best interior designer suited to your style, requirements, and budget. You can visit our stores across India, including major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore, Chennai, and Kochi, to speak with our experts in-store!