No Secrets Here. Just Your Interior Design Questions About Cost, Timelines & Process- Answered
HOW LONG IS THE INTERIOR DESIGN PROCESS?
As a general guideline, a major room renovation—such as a kitchen or bathroom—typically takes 2–3 months to fully design, while a full-home remodel generally takes 3–6 months. Timelines may also be influenced by client availability, the number of decisions required, and the complexity of the project.
Taking the time to thoughtfully develop and finalize the design before construction begins is an essential part of our process. Our goal is to have decisions made, materials selected, and orders placed in advance, helping construction run as smoothly as possible and minimizing unnecessary delays and the amount of time your home is under construction.
DO YOU WORK WITH ALL BUDGETS?
A thoughtfully designed home is an investment of both time and resources, and working with an interior designer is very different from taking a DIY approach. While every project is unique, we generally recommend a minimum overall project budget to ensure we can achieve the level of quality, customization, and attention to detail our clients expect.
An open conversation about the budget is an important first step in our process. Understanding your investment allows us to establish realistic expectations, make informed design decisions, and determine whether our services are the right fit for your project. Read more about the value of hiring an Interior Designer and how professional guidance can help save time and avoid costly mistakes in the long run.
For projects with smaller budgets, inquire about the “Designer Consultant” package.
HOW MUCH SHOULD I BUDGET FOR MY PROJECT?
Project costs vary depending on the size, scope, level of customization, and materials selected. As of 2026, our kitchen remodels typically start at $125,000, main bathroom remodels at $60,000, and guest bathroom remodels at $40,000.
At the beginning of the design process, we develop a detailed preliminary investment estimate based on your specific project and scope. This provides a realistic understanding of anticipated costs early on and helps guide design decisions and selections throughout the project.
WHERE DO YOU PURCHASE MATERIALS & FURNITURE?
We have a curated list of sources that have been honed over more than a decade in the industry (including the same vendors used by designers like Amber Interiors, Studio McGee and Magnolia Home). We prefer to select building materials locally so that tile and hard surfaces can be seen in person. Furniture and area rugs are sourced from shops all over the country and, whenever possible, physical samples are ordered for approval prior to purchase.
HOW DO YOU CHARGE?
We charge hourly for our design services, allowing our fees to reflect the unique scope and needs of each project. Following an initial consultation, we’ll provide an estimated range of design hours and associated fees, so you have a clear understanding of the anticipated investment before moving forward. Full-Service Interior Design fees begin at $10,000.
DO YOU OFFER EVENING OR WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS?
Our appointments are scheduled during regular business hours, Monday through Friday. Maintaining these hours allows our team to provide our clients with our full attention while also protecting time outside of work for our families and personal lives. If evening or weekend availability is essential for your project, we may not be the right fit, and we encourage you to consider this when selecting your designer.
WHEN CAN WE START?
An intake phone call can be scheduled within one to two weeks to determine whether we should proceed with an in-home consultation to review the project in more detail. The start date for the design process depends on current availability. We limit the number of clients we take on at a time to ensure we are as available as possible to our current clients. Project timelines will be discussed in detail at the consultation, but please keep in mind that they are fluid.
HOW LONG UNTIL WE CAN START CONSTRUCTION?
Our goal is to have a complete and thoughtfully developed design package in place before construction begins. We bring a contractor into the process early so we can collaborate on project details, discuss current schedules and availability, and establish a realistic construction timeline. This approach helps ensure that important design decisions are made in advance, allowing the construction phase to proceed as smoothly and efficiently as possible.
WHAT IS THE TYPICAL CONSTRUCTION TIMELINE?
Construction timelines vary depending on the size, scope, and complexity of the project. As a general guideline, kitchen and bathroom remodels typically take approximately 8–12 weeks, while larger or more complex renovations may take longer. Full-home remodels often require around six months of construction, while new construction homes typically take 1–2 years from the start of construction through completion.
Our goal during the design phase is to finalize selections and place orders before construction begins, helping minimize avoidable delays once work is underway.
Ready to Start Your Project?
Every successful project starts with the right partnership. If you’re considering a remodel, new construction home, or furnishing project, we’d love to learn more about what you’re planning. Schedule a complimentary Discovery Call with Alison to discuss your project, ask questions about our process, and see if Design for Living is the right fit for you.