Summary
- Hourly rates are $100–250 (US) or £70–180 (UK).
- Project fees typically run 8–20% of the total budget.
- Confirm which stages — concept, technical, procurement — are included.
- Ask how trade discounts and commissions are handled.
- Technical drawings are where designers save renovation money.
Quick answer
Expect $100–250 per hour in the US and £70–180 per hour in the UK, or a project fee of roughly 8–20% of the build and furnishing budget. A single room concept typically costs $1,500–5,000 or £1,000–3,500.
Fee models
| Model | Typical figure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hourly | $100–250 / £70–180 | Good for advice and small jobs |
| Flat fee per room | $1,500–5,000 / £1,000–3,500 | Concept, layout, specification |
| Percentage of project | 8–20% | Common on full renovations |
| Cost per square unit | $5–15/sq ft / £40–120/m² | Used on larger properties |
| Trade discount model | Fee offset by supplier discounts | Ask how discounts are shared |
What each stage delivers
Be clear which stages your fee covers — most disputes come from assuming procurement or site support was included.
What to prepare before the first meeting
Questions to ask
Is it worth it?
On a full renovation, a designer usually saves more than the fee: correct layout decisions, fewer changes mid-build, accurate lighting plans and no expensive furniture that does not fit. On a single-room refresh, buy two hours of consultation rather than a full package — it is often all you need.
Summary
Expect £70–180 or $100–250 hourly, or 8–20% of the project budget. Confirm which stages are included, how trade discounts are handled, and whether you receive drawings a contractor can actually build from.