What Do Interior Designers Charge for Services?

A well-designed interior space

Interior designers charge a wide range of fees. Rates depend on the location, the size of the project and the reputation of the designer. Ask for referrals to find a designer who fits your budget.

Cost Structure

Designers work for a commission, a fixed fee or an hourly rate. Those who work for commission may not charge you because they receive payment from the merchants and contractors they recommend to you. Designers who charge a fixed fee may range from $500 to over $10,000. The hourly rate for a designer also varies widely from $35 per hour up to $500 per hour.

Store Designers

Some furniture stores provide free interior design services with a purchase. These designers may also help you order items that are not sold at the store. "Smart Money" magazine recommends you check that the in-store designer is a trained professional who is a member of a trade organization.

Benefits

According to the American Society of Interior Designers, a professional designer can help you save money by avoiding costly mistakes and correctly executing your vision without redoing the work. You may have to redo the work if the finished product is unappealing or unsafe, as in the case of a renovation that is not structurally sound or a floor covering that is slippery. Redoing the work could double the cost of materials and labor for your project.

References

• "Smart Money": 10 Things Interior Designers Won't Say
• American Society of Interior Designers: Hire a Designer

Resources

• Pay Scale: Salary Snapshot for Interior Designer Jobs