How Much Does Interior Design Cost? A Clear Guide for Homeowners in West Sussex

If you live in West Sussex and you’re planning a home renovation, new build, or full redesign, one of the first questions you’ll probably ask is:

“How much does an interior designer actually cost?”

In the UK, especially in areas like West Sussex where there’s a mix of character homes, modern new builds and coastal properties, interior design fees can vary widely. And because cost is rarely discussed openly, many homeowners feel unsure whether hiring a designer is “worth it,” or whether it fits their budget at all.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from typical UK pricing structures to what you actually get for your investment so you can make an informed decision with confidence.

It's not just about pretty paint colours!

Why Interior Design Costs Are a Taboo Subject in the UK

Unlike the US, where cost transparency is more common, UK design fees are often discussed behind closed doors. Every project is bespoke, so many designers avoid publishing numbers to avoid any misunderstanding.

The problem? Homeowners in West Sussex are left trying to guess what’s realistic —and often underestimating the cost of a full home renovation or assuming interior design is only for luxury budgets.

But interior design is actually accessible to a range of budgets, as long as you understand the pricing models and level of service you need.

Interior Design Pricing Models in the UK (What West Sussex Designers Typically Charge)

Most designers in West Sussex and the surrounding areas use one of the following pricing structures. Some like Applemoon Interiors use a combination depending on project size.

1. Fixed Fee (Most common for full-home projects)

A fixed fee is quoted based on the designer’s estimated hours, project complexity and scope.

Typical West Sussex range:

£900 – £2,500+ per room

depending on:

• room size

• custom joinery

• level of detail

• whether contractors and project are managed

• quantity of furnishings

2. Hourly Rate

Often used for consultations, styling days or ad-hoc design advice.

Typical hourly rates in West Sussex:

£75 – £150 per hour

3. Percentage of Project Spend

Less common in smaller UK studios but often used for large renovation projects. This is not a pricing method we adopt as it lacks clarity for the client on what the fees could end up being.

Typical:

10–20% of the total project cost

Example:If your renovation budget is £120,000, designer fees may be £12,000–£24,000.

4. Procurement Fee (Trade Discount Handling)

Designers typically access trade discounts from suppliers. Many offer one of two models:

• Pass a portion of the discount to the client

• Charge a handling fee on furniture purchasing (10–20%)

This covers:✓ admin✓ ordering✓ delivery management✓ returns handling✓ liaising with suppliers

Most homeowners hugely underestimate how much logistics are involved, this service is often invaluable during busy renovation periods. Not to mention all the unpacking and disposing of all that cardboard!

What Are You Actually Paying For?

Many clients assume they’re paying only for “pretty cushions and paint colours.” But interior design is far more technical and project-led.

Here’s what you actually get:

✔ Professional space planning

Proper layouts prevent costly mistakes (e.g., ordering a sofa too large for your room).

✔ Management of trades and contractors

Designers ensure tradesmen follow the vision, specifications and measurements accurately.

✔ Technical drawings & elevations

Essential for joinery, lighting and renovations.

✔ Sourcing of furniture, fixtures and finishes

Saving you hours and ensuring everything works together cohesively.

✔ Preventing expensive mistakes

Avoiding poor-quality purchases, incorrect dimensions and misjudged colours.

✔ A cohesive, elevated final result

Your home looks professionally curated, not thrown together.

A good designer pays for themselves in the problems they help you avoid, especially in renovations.

What Does an “Average” Interior Design Project Cost in West Sussex?

To give local context:

A typical West Sussex living room refresh (no major building work):

£8,000 – £25,000+ total spend (including furniture, design fees, and styling)

A full-home, mid-range renovation with design support:

£80,000 – £250,000+ (including furniture, design fees, and styling)

A high-end redesign for a large Sussex property (e.g., barn conversion, coastal home, period house):

£250,000 – £750,000+ (including furniture, design fees, and styling)

These numbers aren’t meant to intimidate they simply bring transparency to the conversation.

Why West Sussex Homeowners Choose to Work With a Designer

Aside from aesthetics, homeowners in West Sussex increasingly hire designers because:

🏡 Properties are unique

From Chichester period cottages to impressive coastal homes in East Preston and modern new builds all along the South Downs, each has quirks requiring thoughtful design.

⏳ Busy lifestyles

Professionals, young families and second-home owners often don’t have the time to manage a renovation, or to spend weekend after weekend trawling shops and showrooms to try and get some ideas or inspiration.

🎨 They want a polished, long-term result

Not another “that’ll do for now” quick fix.

Interior design fees reflect the skill, expertise and project management required to deliver a seamless experience from initial concept to final reveal.

So… Is Hiring an Interior Designer Worth It?

For most homeowners, yes - especially if you're undergoing a renovation or furnishing an entire home.

Designers: ✓ save you money long-term ✓ increase your property value ✓ streamline overwhelming choices ✓ prevent costly mistakes ✓ deliver a cohesive, beautiful home

If you’re renovating in West Sussex, working with a designer is one of the smartest investments you can make.

Final Thoughts: Transparency Helps Everyone

Discussing interior design costs shouldn’t be taboo. The goal of this guide is to give West Sussex homeowners clarity, confidence and realistic expectations so you can plan your project properly from the start.

If you’re considering a renovation or redesign and want tailored advice on costs for your home, I’d be delighted to help.