How Interior Designers Charge?

I received many inquires on how I charge for my services.  So, I thought I'd take the opportunity to explain how I charge - other design firms have similar or different methods of compensation.

I have spent hours of analyzing the most efficient way to use my time and to charge for my design services that benefit my clients and provide me fair compensation.

When I first talk to potential clients, they ask if I offer a free initial consultation.  That depends.  Most often I do not charge for the first meeting, as I am really interviewing them, accessing what they want and need, their time frame and budget.  My potential clients are doing most of the talking, I'm doing most of the listening.  Then, I write up a proposal, outlining in clear language what I will be doing for them and how I will be charging for my services.  The proposal, or more commonly,  a Letter of Agreement, requires their signature and a retainer before I start working on the design project. On the other hand, if someone wants specific design advise, for example, selecting finishes, colors or furnishings, I do charge an hourly fee.

I have experienced that clients hire interior designers for two main reasons, they have neither the time or expertise to accomplish their desires.  In the beginning stages of a project, most of my time is spent designing and specifying products.  As design decisions are made, I spent most of  my time on "project management".  In order to successfully complete a project there are innumerable resources and tasks to coordinate to get the job done.  This phase of a project can take more time than one realizes.  Sometimes this can be a frustrating process, but the entire project rests on the designer or their staff to see every detail is completed.  Project Management, I feel, is one of the most important responsibilities I have as a professional designer.