How Much Do Interior Designers Charge in the UK?

Believe interior design is just for celebs and million-pound houses? Not in the least. A designer is capable of running on practically any budget. All you have to know is what to expect. How much do interior designers in the UK charge, then? Let’s break it down.

How Much Do Interior Designers Charge in the UK?

Most designers in the UK charge by the hour, by the job, or as a percentage of your budget. For most homes, you’ll pay between £50 and £150 per hour. That can go higher in big cities. In London, some top names ask for up to £450 an hour.

For one room, the cost might be between £500 and £5,000. A full-home design could run from £5,000 to £25,000 or more.

Some designers work based on your full budget. They might take 5% to 15% of the total. This setup works best for large projects.

Different Ways Interior Designers Charge for Projects

Designers use a few common pricing styles:

• Hourly Rate: You pay by the hour. Rates usually fall between £50 and £150.
• Fixed Fee: You get a clear price for the whole job.
• Percentage of Budget: Your designer takes a share of the full budget—often about 10%.
• Room Packages: You pay for one room at a time. Some online firms start at £395.

Some designers mix these styles. For example, they might set a fee for the design but charge by the hour if you want changes.

What You Get for the Fee

When you hire a designer, you’re not just paying for their ideas. You’re paying for work that makes a difference. Here’s what most packages include:

• One-on-one advice
• Design boards and layout plans
• Simple or 3D views of your space
• Colour and fabric options
• Help choosing furniture and lighting
• Support while you shop
• Styling your space at the end

Some full-service packages even include project management. That means the designer deals with builders and suppliers.

What Changes the Price?

Many things can push the price up or down:

• Where you live: London is the most expensive.
• How big the room is: Bigger spaces take more work.
• Your style: More custom designs take more time.
• The service level: A full redesign costs more than simple advice.
• The size of the project: Whole homes cost more than one room.
• Who you hire: Experienced designers often charge more.

The more help you need, the more you’ll spend. But smart design can also stop costly mistakes.

Real Interior Design Costs in the UK

Let’s break it down with examples:

One-Time Advice

• One session: £200 to £800

Includes a short chat and early design ideas.

One Room Makeover

• Online-only: £400 to £950
• In-person with drawings: £1,000 to £5,000
• Luxury finish: £5,000 or more

Full House Design

• Design only: £5,000 to £20,000
• Full service and install: £25,000 to £50,000+

Business Spaces

• Usually charged as 10% to 15% of the build cost

Online Interior Design

• Basic plan: £200 to £800
• Full room with layout: £950 to £2,500
• Some flat-fee options start at £395

How Interior Design Fees Work Across the UK

Where you live can change how much you pay. If you’re in London, expect higher prices. A senior designer there might charge £250 to £450 per hour. In smaller towns or rural areas, rates drop to £50 to £100 per hour. It’s not just about the cost of living. Designers in busy areas often work on bigger jobs. They also deal with tighter schedules and more demand.

Some design studios charge less but work online. These are great if you live outside big cities or want help without full service. You can still get expert advice—just at a lower cost. The style stays high. The price stays friendly.

If you’re not sure, ask designers in your area what they charge. Many offer a free call. You’ll get a feel for their pricing and process before spending anything.

How to Keep Costs Down

You don’t need to spend big to get great design. Here’s how to save money and still get a designer look:

• Go online: Web-based services can save you a lot.
• Tackle one room at a time: Spread the cost out.
• Choose a set package: Know the price upfront.
• Use their shopping list: Do the buying yourself.
• Do small jobs yourself: You paint, they plan.
• Talk about your budget early: A good designer will work with it.

A little help goes a long way. The right design can change how you feel in your space.

How Much Do Interior Designers Charge – vs Doing It Yourself

DIY can cost less. But it takes time and skill. A designer brings more than a good eye. They bring smart ideas, experience, and confidence.

You might spend £5,000 with a pro and save £10,000 by skipping bad buys. You’ll make fewer mistakes. You’ll also get trade discounts—many designers pass those to you.

How Interior Designers Help You Stay on Budget

Many people think hiring a designer means spending more. In truth, a good designer helps you avoid costly errors. They plan the full look before you spend a penny. That means fewer surprise costs down the road.

They can also help you set a clear plan. That way, you buy what you need, not just what looks nice. Many pass on trade discounts, too—so you get better pieces for less.

A designer can show you where to spend and where to save. You may choose high-end lighting, but go for smart budget tiles. It’s all about balance.

And the best part? Your space still feels polished, even if you cut back in places.

Final Thoughts 

So, how much do interior designers charge? It is a matter of needs. The majority of people pay between £500-£10000 pounds. You might want to spend more. You can also buy cheap.

Most designers will give a free initial call or quote. Discuss your plans during that time. Check whether it fits. Find a person who hears you, can explain and believes in your vision.

Beautiful homes do not require you to be rich. You simply need to be articulate, intelligent, and be the first to make a move.

Enrol in Training Tale’s Interior Design Course and start shaping beautiful spaces (and your future) today!