Design Fees – What to Expect

designer: Jamie Drake, source: Camille Maurice

There is no such thing as a typical fee for an interior designer…rates and methods of payment can vary depending on a number of factors including the size and scope of the project and the geographic location of the project. Here are some of the methods designers use:

• Fixed fee (or flat fee) -- The designer identifies a specific sum to cover costs, exclusive of reimbursement for expenses. One total fee applies to the complete range of services, from conceptual development through layouts, specifications and final installation.

• Hourly fee -- Compensation is based on actual time expended by the designer on a project or specific service.

• Cost plus markup -- A designer purchases materials, furnishings and services (e.g., carpentry, drapery workrooms, picture framing, etc.) at cost and sells to the client at the designer's cost plus a specified percentage agreed to with the client to compensate for the designer’s time and effort.

Often designers use a combination of methods such as hourly fees and cost plus markup. Markups may sound scary but they can actually save you money. Essentially the designer is sharing a part of their trade discount with you, which means you are paying less than the retail cost.

Design Fees Web Guide

• How Much Does it Cost to Hire an Interior Designer
  Learn about some of the typical ways designers charge for the services.

• Typical Methods for Charging for Interior Design Services
  When choosing to hire an Interior Designer, you're not only paying for their services, but more importantly, their knowledge.