How Much Does Interior Design Cost and What Affects the Price?

When planning a home or commercial space makeover, one of the first questions that pops up is: “How much does interior design cost?” The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The cost of interior design can vary greatly depending on your location, the designer you hire, the size and type of space, and most importantly—your goals. Whether you want a full luxury overhaul or a simple refresh, the design process will be tailored to your needs—and so will the price tag.

Interior Design Pricing: What to Expect

Interior designers typically use a few common pricing models:

• Per square foot: Especially common in Dubai and larger cities, this ranges from AED 150 to AED 1,000 per square foot depending on the scope and finish.

• Package-based pricing: Designers may offer fixed-price packages (e.g., AED 5,000–30,000) for living rooms, bedrooms, or full apartments.

• Hourly rates: Some professionals charge hourly (AED 200–800/hour), ideal for consultations or DIY guidance.

• Percentage of project cost: Usually 10%–20% of the total renovation budget.

• According to Architectural Digest, interior design costs vary by project scope.

What Really Affects Interior Design Cost?

Let’s break down the key items that directly influence your design budget:

1. Scope and Complexity of the Project

A simple room makeover with paint and furniture will cost far less than a full villa renovation involving plumbing, lighting, custom woodwork, and layout changes. Structural changes and civil work can skyrocket the cost.

2. Size of the Space

Larger spaces need more materials, labor, and furnishings—making them naturally more expensive to design. A 2-bedroom apartment will cost much less than a 5-bedroom villa with outdoor landscaping and rooftop seating.

3. Location

Design fees can vary depending on where you are. Urban areas like Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, or Palm Jumeirah often have higher design fees than less central areas.

4. Designer’s Experience

A well-known interior designer with years of experience and a luxury portfolio will charge more than a beginner or freelancer. However, experienced designers can often help you avoid costly mistakes.

Material Selection Plays a Big Role

Materials and finishes can make or break your budget. For example:

• Marble flooring costs much more than ceramic or vinyl.

• Imported wallpapers or fabrics are pricier than local options.

• High-gloss finishes and custom-built cabinetry demand more labor and precision.

Choosing between premium and standard materials will reflect significantly in your overall budget.

Custom Furniture vs. Ready-Made

Do you want your home to stand out with exclusive pieces? Custom furniture elevates any design, but it can be expensive due to the craftsmanship involved. If you’re on a budget, consider mixing IKEA or Home Centre basics with a few statement custom items.

Lighting Design

Lighting isn’t just about function—it’s about mood. Recessed lighting, chandeliers, and LED accents add luxury, but they increase electrical work and product costs. A basic lighting layout will be cheaper but may miss the “wow” factor.

Kitchen and Bathroom Design

These rooms often take up a large portion of the budget:

• Modular kitchens are more affordable and quicker to install.

• Custom kitchens or spa-like bathrooms with top-end brands like Kohler, Grohe, or Blum can significantly add to the cost.

Décor, Accessories, and Styling

Don’t overlook the final touches. Rugs, curtains, artwork, mirrors, and cushions bring personality to the space but can collectively add thousands to your budget if you go high-end.

Smart Home Upgrades

Adding features like smart lighting, security systems, or integrated sound adds both luxury and convenience—but with a premium price tag. These can easily account for 10–15% of your total cost if you go all-in.

Project Timeline Affects Price

Need your project done in 3 weeks instead of 3 months? Expect to pay more. Fast-tracking requires more manpower, premium logistics, and overtime charges.

Additional Services That Increase Cost

• 3D renderings or VR walkthroughs

• Mood boards and shopping lists

• On-site supervision and contractor coordination

These add value but come at a price.

Regional Price Differences

A villa in Emirates Hills will have a very different design budget compared to a home in Al Warqa. Even furniture sourcing changes based on region, shipping, and supplier networks.

Conclusion

Interior design isn’t just about making a space look good—it’s about transforming the way you live and feel in your home. Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy modern apartment or a luxury villa that oozes elegance, there’s a design path for every budget. Just remember: the more personalized and detailed your design gets, the more you’ll need to invest. But the return? Priceless comfort and style that feels uniquely yours.

contact us today to have a free consultation for your project and get quote about your interior pricing.