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 living room.
Layout, lighting, colour, soft furnishings — by a designer who balances how the room looks vs how it's used.
✓ Updated May 2026✓ Free quotes✓ Vetted pros
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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
Living room design — heart of the home. Layout, lighting, soft furnishings, focal points. Expect to pay £500–£8,000 for UK living room design.
What Does the Work Involve?
Designer visits, measures. Lifestyle and use discussed. Mood board and scheme. Furniture sourcing. Window treatments. Lighting plan. Accessories. Project-managed install.
Typical Costs
| Item | Low (£) | High (£) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Consultation (single visit) | 150 | 400 | Initial advice |
| Design fee (basic scheme) | 500 | 1,500 | Plan + sourcing |
| Design fee (full scheme) | 1,500 | 4,000 | Including 3D |
| Premium project management | 3,000 | 8,000 | End-to-end |
| Furniture (excl. design) | 3,000 | 30,000+ | Sofa, tables, lighting |
| Curtains/blinds (excl.) | 300 | 3,000 | Bespoke |
| Accessories styling | 200 | 1,500 | Cushions, art |
UK Regulations
BS 5852 fire safety for upholstery. Smoke alarm Building Regs Part B. Electrical Part P.
Frequently Asked Questions
Designer essential?
For major makeover or complex space: yes. Simple refresh: optional.
Open-plan or zoned?
Designer advises. Rugs and lighting zone open-plan effectively.
How long project takes?
8-16 weeks design + manufacture + install. Bespoke pieces longer.
Lighting plan essential?
Yes — three layers (ambient, task, accent). Transforms space.
Trade discount?
10-30% on furniture/fabrics. Designer passes or retains. Confirm pricing.
Property value impact?
Designer-led can add 5-10% value at sale. Especially premium properties.
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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