If you’re hiring a professional to redo your kitchen or any other space in your home, be prepared to spend money over and above the cost of materials because you have to factor in the time he or she spent on your home. However, how much you should pay in interior design fees varies based on a number of factors.

The complexity of your project, the size of the space, the amount of time estimated for project completion, the area that you live in and the skill of the interior designer will determine fee structure and payment options.

Hourly Rates

Some interior designers prefer fees in the form of a fixed hourly rate. They prefer this method especially in the planning and sketching stages when they have to put in hours at the office drawing up plans and making revisions. Others like to carry on this method till the project is done as they can then be paid for over time they put in as well as fussy customers who are always changing their mind. For instance, a designer can rate $50 an hour as his interior design fees for redecorating your family room.

Flat Fee

Other designers prefer a lump sum amount for a project so in case they are done sooner than expected or even if it takes the longer, the client doesn’t have to watch the clock. For instance, a designer can charge $5,000 in interior design fees for redoing your kitchen. Clients have to remember that interior design fees cover the time and expert opinion of the designer and not the cost of the materials you choose to put in. You can be as modest or as extravagant with the appliances and light fixtures, flooring and faucets of your kitchen and hence that depends on your taste and budget. The designer is there to draw a plan and help you reach your goal with minim waste in time and effort.

Cost Plus

One of the most popular ways interior designers calculate fees is by this method. Here they add up the cost of the project and then add a percentage or flat fee for their time. So, for instance if your bedroom makeover cost $7,000 in furniture, paint and accessories, the designer can add 20 per cent as his charges and bring the total to $8,400.

If you’re on a budget, hiring an interior design student is one of the cheapest ways to go. They are eager to build a portfolio and are fresh in theory. You can save big bucks by enlisting their help; however it may be at the expense of years of experience.