I’m often asked, “How much will this cost?”  The generic but completely honest answer is, “It depends.”  Obviously, there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to interior decorating, as every space, style, and budget can vary.

None the less, since this is often one of the largest unknowns when considering redecorating, I thought it might be helpful to offer a more detailed look into the costs of key elements you might need.  Hopefully, this will give you a better idea of what to expect if you’re planning a project of your own.

Whether you’re simply changing a few accents or starting from scratch, interior decorating can involve a wide range of expenses.  I’m going to focus on the “big ticket” items which tend to drive up the cost, as well as offer some realistic estimates for each to help guide your planning.

I’m also going to focus solely on the actual design elements needed to furnish and style a space.  In other words, we’ll assume the “canvas” (aka, windows, ceilings, flooring, and walls) is all done and not part of this cost discussion.  So, let’s get started:

Furniture:  The Foundation of Any Space

The furniture you choose sets the tone and function for your entire room.  Whether you’re furnishing a living room, bedroom, or office, it shouldn’t be a surprise that the cost of furniture will take the biggest bite out of your decorating budget.

Typical Costs:

  • Sofas & Sectionals: $1,000 – $5,000+
    • High-quality, durable pieces like sectional sofas from renowned brands can range from $2,500 to $5,000 or even more, especially if you’re talking custom upholstery or premium fabrics.
  • Chairs: $200 – $2,500+
    • Coordinating chairs, accent chairs, dining chairs, and others can vary widely in cost.  Unique “designer” chairs or those with custom fabrics will easily push you to the higher end.
  • Beds: $500 – $3,000+
    • A simple platform bed may be on the lower end, but a beautifully-crafted king size bed with a custom headboard or a designer frame could cost a lot more.  And that’s NOT including the mattress!

Tip: If you’re on a budget but want to invest in timeless pieces, consider purchasing a high-quality sofa, then look for savings on smaller items like side tables or chairs which are easy to swap out as your style evolves.

Lighting:  Practical and Pretty

Lighting isn’t just functional—it’s a critical design element.  It doesn’t matter how pretty a room is if you can’t see it, right?  Pendant lights, chandeliers, and even task lighting can significantly elevate the look and feel of a room.

Typical Costs:

  • Flush & Semi-Flush Fixtures:  $100 – $1,000+
    • Usually relegated to less prominent places like hallways, (semi) flush mount fixtures are still opportunities to add visual interest and tie your look together. There are many cost-effective options available, but the more unique or stylish the fixture, the more it will cost you.
  • Chandeliers: $200 – $3,000+
    • A designer chandelier or large statement fixture can easily be one of the pricier items in a home.  As with all lighting, there are affordable options available.  However, high-end chandeliers made with crystals or unique materials can push the price much higher.
  • Pendant Lights: $100 – $500+ each
    • Like chandeliers, pendant lighting can add drama and sophistication to any space.  Options can range from inexpensive to hand-crafted, designer pieces which carry a hefty price tag.
  • Recessed Lighting: $100 – $300 per fixture (installed)
    • Recessed lighting is great for general lighting and offers a sleek, modern look but often requires professional installation.

Tip: While pendant lights and chandeliers can be luxurious, there are many stunning options available at more budget-friendly prices. Explore alternative materials, like wicker or shade-only options, that provide an elevated look without breaking the bank.

Window Treatments: Style & Privacy

Whether you choose blinds, drapes, or custom window coverings, window treatments are often overlooked, yet essential for both function and aesthetics. This is one area where you can splurge for a custom look or save with off-the-shelf solutions.

Typical Costs:

  • Custom Drapes: $400 – $1,500+ per window
    • Custom draperies and curtains, made from hand-selected fabrics can be expensive, especially when you factor in the cost of materials (think yardage), fabrication and professional installation.
  • Blinds/Shades: $50 – $600+ per window
    • Blinds or shades can vary significantly in price, with high-end options (like motorized shades) falling on the pricier side.
  • Sheer Curtains: $100 – $400+
    • Lightweight, sheer curtains are more affordable than lined fabric panels, but a full set can still be a size-able investment.

Tip: If custom treatments are outside your budget, try buying inexpensive panels and have them hemmed to a more custom length.  You can also hang them from nicer hardware (aka drapery rings or hooks) for a designer look without the fully-custom price tag.

Accessories & Art:  Finishing Touches

Accessories like rugs, art, and decor give personality and a sense of style to a room and are typically less expensive than large furniture pieces.  However, prices for these items can also run the gamut.

Typical Costs:

  • Area Rugs: $100 – $5,000+
    • A beautiful, high-quality area rug can be a major design statement.  Pricesvary based on size, material, and craftsmanship, with hand-knotted or large-scale rugs being the most expensive.
  • Artwork: $50 – $5,000+
    • Original art can range dramatically in price.  While mass-produced prints or budget-friendly pieces can be affordable, one-of-a-kind artwork from emerging artists or galleries usually costs significantly more.
  • Decor & Accessories: $50 – $1,500+
    • This category includes vases, books, sculptures, and other small decorative items.  While these can be relatively inexpensive, high-end, designer pieces can add up.

Tip: You can create a personalized and unique space with affordable art by framing prints, photographs, or even DIY projects.  Vintage stores and resale shops are great places to hunt for distinctive pieces at a lower cost.

Creating a Realistic Budget That Works for You

When discussing budgets with my clients, I find it helpful to think in terms of GOOD, BETTER, & BEST.

Generally speaking, you should be able furnish and decorate most rooms with budget-priced basics for around $5,000 in materials.  That gets you “Good“.

If  you can afford to increase your budget for higher quality furnishings, art and accessories and a more custom design, “Better” will run about $8-10K per room for materials.

Finally, if you want to invest in custom, finely-crafted, unique and artisan pieces, “Best” can easily cost you $15K or more per room for materials.

All in all, a typical decorating project can range anywhere from $5,000 to $50,000+, depending on the size of the space(s), the materials chosen, and if you need to include the services of a decorator or designer.

The most important thing is to clearly define and communicate your goals and budget from the outset.  As a decorator, my job is to help you make the most of your investment by choosing the right pieces for your space, whether that means splurging on one statement item or focusing your funds on functional essentials.  Helping clients formulate reasonable budgets, I often use the analogy, “I help you put your best foot forward but you buy the shoes!”  The amount of time it takes to design and complete a room isn’t nearly as variable as the amount invested in materials to put in it.

No matter your budget, you can still have spaces that are both functional and beautiful.  Working with a professional allows you to maximize every dollar to get the biggest bang for whatever bucks you can afford.

If you’re working with a limited budget, start with a few, key pieces (such as a sofa or rug) and build your look as funds permit.  Small updates like new throw pillows, lighting, or artwork can also have a significant impact on your finished look without breaking the bank.

I hope this gives you a better understanding of the costs associated with an interior decorating project.  If you have any questions or would like to dive deeper into specifics for your own project, don’t hesitate to reach out!

Happy Decorating from Decor Designs.   815-245-2433