How much does a small renovation cost? Budget, Timing & Hidden Realities
Thinking about working with an interior designer but wondering, “How much will it cost—and how long will it take to complete the project?” You’re not alone. One of the most common questions I receive is about fees, timelines, and how to navigate decisions so your project stays on time and within budget.
So, whether you're thinking about renovating your entire home or just one room, this blog will walk you through typical design fees, how scope affects cost, what happens in each phase of the project, and the exact ways clients can help make the process more efficient—and more enjoyable. Let’s dive in.
1: Why I talk about the budget in the first meeting?
In the initial consultation—our very first meeting—I always ask about your budget. Most clients have a number in mind, while others need a little help figuring it out. One of the easiest ways to build a total project budget is to list the desired scope of work and assign an estimated amount, including materials and installation, while keeping design and project management fees listed separately.
Having a clear budget from the beginning helps guide the design direction. It means we won’t waste time exploring ideas outside of your financial comfort zone. As a designer, if I know your investment range, I can propose solutions that align with it—no guesswork, no stress.
Sometimes clients are clear about where they want to allocate more of the budget. For example, one of my past clients asked to dedicate 60% of the total to finishes and 40% to furniture and accessories. That meant curating mid-range furniture pieces while investing in quality materials.
Designers typically charge a flat fee or an hourly rate. This varies depending on your location and the size of the studio you work with. On average, design costs fall between 10%–25% of the total project budget.
Knowing whether you're investing €1,000 or €10,000 helps set realistic expectations and avoid surprises. Keep in mind: some designers may have a minimum budget requirement, while others specialize in budget-conscious projects.
2: Which Room Costs, and Why?
During our consultation, we’ll take a tour of your home and discuss each space and its needs. I’ll often share initial ideas to help you start visualizing the potential of each room.
Here’s a general idea of what different rooms may cost:
Bedrooms & Living Rooms: These spaces are usually more affordable to design, as they don’t involve plumbing or appliances. Design fees: €600–€800 per room. Total outfitting: €4,000–€6,000 (depending on scale). This typically includes layout planning, furniture sourcing, fabric selections, and project management. (Note: Some designers charge separately for site visits at €40–€80/hour.)
Kitchens & Bathrooms: These are more technical and require skilled trades and custom finishes, so costs are naturally higher. Small bathroom (with shower): Design fees: €1,200–€1,500. Total outfitting: €5,000–€8,000 (depending on materials and labor costs). Kitchens tend to be even more complex and may cost significantly more depending on the design, finishes, and appliances involved.
3: Timeline, Expectations, and How You Can Help?
For a typical apartment with two bedrooms, one bathroom, and an open-plan kitchen/living room (with no structural changes), you can expect the following:
Initial Consultation: After our first meeting, allow 1–2 weeks to define the project scope and align on budget before we begin the design phase.
Planning & Design: This usually takes 2–3 weeks, longer if we’re including custom carpentry like built-in wardrobes or media units.
Procurement: Sourcing finishes, fixtures, and tradespeople takes around 4–6 weeks, especially for custom or imported items.
Construction & Installation (approximate timelines):
Bedrooms & Living Rooms: 1–2 months
Bathrooms: 2–4 months
Kitchens: 4–6+ months
Communication matters. Delays often happen when decisions aren’t made on time or when items are changed mid-process. This can lead to rescheduled deliveries or increased costs. The better the communication with your designer, the smoother the process, and the fewer unexpected hiccups.
4. Quality Investment and Value
This is something I always emphasize with my clients: investing in quality materials may cost more upfront, but it pays off in the long run. You avoid wearing replacements or pieces that just don’t feel quite right.
Think of your designer as a guide. Someone who’s helping you make the best possible decisions for your space. Of course, your preferences matter most, but try to trust the expertise you’re hiring. If you ever feel unsure about a choice, let’s talk it through together. We’ll always find the right solution.
Good design is about more than looks. It’s about how your home feels and functions: seamless flow, calming energy, and spaces that reflect your life and personality.
5. How to make your design Experience Smoother and faster.
The best design experiences come from clear communication, realistic expectations, and a collaborative spirit. Here are a few tips that can make your project easier for both of us:
Be proactive: Decide on key elements early, so suppliers and contractors stay on track. Prioritize what matters most, perhaps the tile in your bathroom is more important than the curtains in the living room.
Plan: Reach out at least 3–6 months before your ideal completion date. This allows the designer to plan other commitments and deliver your project on time.
Build cushion time & budget: Unexpected delays can happen with shipping or contractor availability. Budget an extra 20–30% for time and 10–15% for costs, especially for larger projects.
Communicate clearly: Weekly check-ins, prompt feedback, and milestone reviews help avoid missteps and keep everything moving.
Working with an interior designer should feel exciting, inspiring, and collaborative, not overwhelming. The more you know about what affects costs and timelines, the better prepared you’ll be to enjoy the journey.
See you in the next Blog Post! 👋
Paola.
