How Much Does It Cost To Hire An Interior Designer?

Whether you're building your first family home or renovating a well-loved property, we're sure that you've considered working with a design professional. Different factors come into play why this step doesn't come into fruition—a few experience difficulty finding a designer who can work on the design they have in mind; while many are worried about the costs and fees.

Before making a final decision, keep in mind that even with guidelines for standard fees, most designers charge differently. The rates are based on years of practice, reputation, client demand, site location, and scope of work, to name a few. Given these factors, it goes to show that you can’t compare the charges presented by two different designers. You might be thinking: So how much does it really cost to hire an interior designer? Read on to learn more about standard project types and their corresponding rates (based on the Philippine Institute of Interior Designers  (PIID) Document #5-Guidelines for Standard Fees):

Consultation

For projects that do not require much planning, you can hire an interior designer for consultation only. This service takes into account material and decoration like sourcing for furniture, furnishings, and sometimes decorative finishes like wallpaper and accent tiles, as well as the actual setting up of the project site.

Rates may vary but the designer can charge a minimum of P500 to a maximum of P1, 500 per hour. Lump sum rates can go from P4, 000 to P10, 000 to cover the eight working hours per day. These rates do not include transportation and food expenses for projects within Metro Manila and the aforementioned plus accommodation for out of town projects—both local and international.

Small Projects

Small projects pertain to houses, condos, clinics, commercial spaces, and small offices that have a maximum floor area of 75 sqm. These projects, although small, will require the necessary interior design services and documents. The said documents include the needed plans, detailed drawings, material and furniture selection, perspectives, cost estimate review, and site supervision/coordination with contractor and engineers.

A designer can charge a minimum lump sum fee of P50, 000 per space/unit or P1, 000 per square meter.

From 76 to 300sqm—For bigger spaces with the said measurements, rates can range from a minimum of P50, 000 per major area to P300, 000 per house (regardless of the number of rooms).

From 301 sqm and above—Note that charges get lower as the space gets bigger. For areas measuring 301 sqm. and above, design fee rates are at a minimum of P400 to a maximum of P800 per square meter.

Repetitive Work

This signifies projects where the basic design is replicated—as in hotel rooms, franchises, model units, and the like. The designer will charge for full payment of design services for one unit, plus a percentage of the original for every succeeding unit/s. The eventuality of repetition should be discussed by the designer and the client at the beginning of the project.

Renovations and Repair Work

These projects will require the interior designer to evaluate the site's existing conditions and the scope of work it entails—which means that the design fee will be adjusted to reflect the nature of work since these entail more work.

Rates are at a minimum of P50, 000 per unit or P1, 000 per square meter, plus an additional contingency fee of 10% for unforeseen additional work.

Fees on Percentage Basis

This is when the designer's rates are based on the overall project cost. A 10 to 15 percentage of the said cost should cover the design fee.

For any type of work listed above, the designer should also provide a schedule of fees which should be based on the progress of the work rendered as seen in—but not limited to—the example below:

• 10%—Acceptance Fee
• 20%—Schematic Design Phase (This includes the preliminary plans, image boards, and perspectives for approval)
• 35%—Design Development Phase (This covers the actual design phase—production of all necessary drawings, details, material selection)
• 20%—Contact Document and Coordination Phase (Including the submission of seven full sets of drawings, cost estimate/bid review)
• 15%—Construction Phase (This covers the site supervision, coordination with necessary parties such as the contractor and project manager)

Frequently Asked Questions on Interior Designer Rates

What are the benefits of hiring an interior designer?

Some of the benefits that you can enjoy when you hire an interior designer are:
Professional Expertise: Interior designers have the skills and knowledge to create functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces tailored to your needs and preferences.

• Cost Efficiency: Despite the initial cost, interior designers can help you save money by avoiding costly mistakes and ensuring efficient use of resources.
• Time-Saving: Designers can streamline the decision-making process, saving you time in selecting materials and furnishings.
• Access to Resources: They often have access to a network of suppliers, contractors, and resources that you might not have on your own.
• Enhanced Property Value: Well-designed spaces can potentially increase the value of your property.

How do interior designers charge for their services?

Interior designers use various fee structures, including hourly rates, lump-sum fees, square meter or square footage rates, and percentage-based fees. The choice of fee structure often depends on the scope and complexity of the project and the designer's preferences.

What are the factors that influence the cost of hiring an interior designer?

Different factors can affect the cost of hiring an interior designer, such as:

• Years of Experience: More experienced designers typically charge higher fees.
• Reputation: Interiors designers may charge premium fees if they have a strong portfolio and have already established their craft within the industry.
• Client Demand: High demand for a particular designer can lead to higher fees.
• Project Location: Designers in urban areas or expensive locales may charge more.
• Scope of Work: The complexity and size of the project can impact the cost.

Are there additional expenses associated with hiring an interior designer?

Yes, there can be additional expenses beyond the designer's fees. These may include transportation costs for projects within Metro Manila or other locations, food expenses for on-site work, and accommodation for out-of-town or international projects.

What is the typical payment schedule when working with an interior designer?

Designers often have a payment schedule based on project milestones. This schedule may include an acceptance fee, fees for different project phases (schematic design, design development, contract document and coordination, construction), and a final payment upon project completion.

Can interior designers assist with renovation and repair work?

Yes, interior designers can assist with renovation and repair projects. In such cases, the designer's fee may be adjusted to reflect the nature and extent of the work, including a contingency fee to cover unforeseen additional work.

How do I look for an interior designer that’s a good fit?

You may do the following things to increase your chances of looking for the best interior designer to work with you:

• Research: Look for designers with experience in your type of project.
• Check Portfolios: Review their past work to see if it aligns with your style.
• Interview Designers: Discuss your project, budget, and expectations with potential designers.
• Check References: Ask for references from past clients to gauge their satisfaction.

Choosing the right designer is crucial to the success of your project. Therefore, you need to take your time in making this decision because it makes or breaks the renovation or building of your home.