Instant
01 · Ask
Concept, fit-out or both?
Some designers do paper only; others run the whole job. Describe what you need and the AI tells you which kind of designer to look for.
Design your kitchen.
Layout, units, worktops, lighting and appliances — designed by a kitchen specialist before the installer arrives.
✓ Updated May 2026✓ Free quotes✓ Vetted pros
20,000+UK homeowners
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Hire an interior designer. Briefed, visualised, then bought.
Read the brief on fee models, trade discounts and visualisations — then let Three local designers quote.
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02 · Read the brief
Walk in informed
Fee models, RIBA work stages 0–7, trade discount disclosure, sample boards vs CGI. Know the language before the first meeting.
60 seconds
03 · Compare
Compare 3 designer briefs
Three local designers quote on the same brief — concept, deliverables, project management, supplier discount terms. Compare like-for-like.
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Top tips
Hiring a interior designer, without the regret.
Four moves that separate a smooth job from a nightmare.
Agree the fee model up front.
Hourly, fixed fee, percentage of project, or product mark-up — interior designers charge any of four ways. Pin down which before any work starts.
Get a written brief signed off.
'I want something modern' is not a brief. Insist on a written, signed brief covering scope, style, budget and timeline — change it later costs extra.
Ask about trade discounts.
Designers often buy at trade prices and pass on (or keep) the discount. Get clarity on whether you pay trade or retail through them.
Insist on visualisations, not mood boards.
Mood boards are vague; CGI or 3D visualisations let you see the actual room. Worth £400 to avoid a £4k mistake.
Costs & timeline
Know what it costs. Know when it ends.
Indicative UK ranges and what affects price.
Cost range
By job type
Inc. VAT · 2026
Source: NMT quotes
Source: NMT quotes
Consultation (per hour)
£80–£200/hr
Single-room design (concept only)
£800–£2.5k
Single-room full design + buyingExcl. furniture
£2k–£8k
Whole-house design (3-bed)Excl. furniture
£5k–£25k
Project management fee% of build cost
£10–£18
CGI / 3D visualisation
£400–£1.5k
!
Quote spread is typically ± 18% — always get 3 quotes.
At a glance
Infographic · VideoThe Interior Designer briefing.
Infographic
Interior Designer quick-view
Video guide
Interior Designer explained
Kitchen design service — specialist layout and product selection. Often part of kitchen showroom or independent. Expect to pay £1,000–£10,000 for UK kitchen design service (excluding kitchen itself).
What Does the Work Involve?
Designer visits and measures. CAD plan produced. 3D visualisation. Cabinet, worktop, appliance selection. Quote from supplier. Sometimes installation managed. Showroom-based or independent.
Typical Costs
| Item | Low (£) | High (£) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Showroom design (free, with purchase) | 0 | 500 | If buying their kitchen |
| Independent designer fee | 500 | 3,500 | Layout + 3D |
| 3D visualisation only | 300 | 1,500 | Render of design |
| Project-managed install | 2,000 | 10,000 | Plus install costs |
| Kitchen install (separate) | 3,000 | 15,000 | Labour only |
| Premium bespoke kitchen design | 3,000 | 10,000+ | High-end |
| Hourly consultation | 50 | 200 | Per hour |
How Long Does It Take?
Design phase: 2-6 weeks. Manufacture: 6-12 weeks. Install: 1-3 weeks.
UK Regulations
Building Regs Part P for electrics. Part H for drainage. Gas Safe for gas. Window changes need FENSA.
Frequently Asked Questions
Showroom or independent designer?
Showroom: free with purchase, limited to their brands. Independent: pays for itself in supplier flexibility.
Need 3D render?
Yes — visualises design. Prevents costly mistakes.
Designer manage install?
Some yes, premium service. Others design-only. Confirm scope.
How long for design?
Initial 2-4 weeks. Revisions 1-2 weeks. Total 4-6 weeks before order.
Cost of kitchen itself?
Budget £5,000-£15,000. Mid-range £15,000-£35,000. Premium £35,000+. Plus design fee.
Best UK kitchen brands?
Wren, Howdens budget. Magnet, Wickes mid. Tom Howley, Plain English premium bespoke.
This guide was written with AI assistance and is intended for general information only. Prices are estimates based on UK averages and may vary by region. Always get at least three quotes and consult a qualified professional before starting any work.
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