I've heard of designers that work on an hourly basis. Seems it would somehow boil down to how much time they spend doing what you need them to do. Obviously, I'm not a designer but that's how attorneys have their clients pay.

Have you googled?

Hi Debbie,

In response to your question, it depends on what the Scope of Work will be.

As an example an average size living room with nice quality items runs around $35,000.

On some projects a designer will charge an hourly fee. If the client wants to be part of the shopping/design selections a cost plus fee can be arranged. A retainer would be paid upfront and the hourly fee would be charged against that. The hourly fee would also apply to a basic Design Consultation.

For other projects a flat fee is charged with details of what services will be included.

I prefer to use a flat fee, but again detailed agreements for this must be completed prior to the start of the project. This is billed monthly based on the percent of work that has been completed. Again, there are no set rules. It is clearly between you and your designer.

If this is a new build please consider having your Designer as part of the Development team. Making the master plan before the walls go up will help avoid issues once the furniture comes in. The finish of the walls (flat for wall-coverings or textured) Placement of the electrical, plumbing, any special consideration for framing that would need extra backing in the walls (heavy art work,etc.) it name a few.

Lastly use a Professional Designer who is Certified by the State of California. The education and experience required for this Certification will protect you in the long run.

Happy Building!