Revival Architects

How Much Does an Interior Designer Cost in Bangladesh? A Comprehensive Guide to Investing in Your Home’s Future

The decision to hire an interior designer is a pivotal step in transforming a house into a truly personalized, functional, and aesthetically pleasing home. Yet, for most homeowners, the first and most critical question remains: “How much does an interior designer cost?” This is not a query with a simple, single answer. The total investment for Residential Interior Design in a rapidly evolving market like Bangladesh is a complex equation, influenced by project scale, design complexity, material choices, and the expertise of the design firm you choose.

At Revival Architects, we believe in transparency and empowering our clients with the knowledge needed to make informed budget decisions. This article breaks down the various cost components, pricing models, and specific factors that influence the total investment for your dream Residence Design in Bangladesh.

Deconstructing the Cost – Pricing Models in Bangladesh

The cost of hiring an interior designer in Bangladesh generally follows a few key pricing structures, which can often be combined based on the project’s scope. Understanding these models is the first step toward smart budgeting.

1. Per Square Foot (SFT) Rate

This is one of the most popular and straightforward pricing methods for a complete interior design and execution project, offering clients an easy way to predict the overall budget.

Design TierAverage Per Square Foot (SFT) RateTotal Project Cost Range (Example: 1,500 SFT apartment)Inclusions & Characteristics
Budget to Mid-RangeBDT 1,000 – BDT 2,500/SFTBDT 15 Lakh to BDT 37.5 LakhFunctional, minimal design; locally available materials (melamine boards, standard tiles, basic paint); focus on essential fittings.
Mid-to-High RangeBDT 2,500 – BDT 4,000/SFTBDT 37.5 Lakh to BDT 60 LakhBetter quality materials (marine plywood, premium laminates, first-class fixtures); more refined designs and premium finishes.
Luxury & PremiumBDT 4,000/SFT and aboveBDT 60 Lakh to BDT 1 Crore+High-end, imported materials (imported marble, hardwood, acrylics); full customization; intricate craftsmanship; smart home systems; reflects a premium aesthetic.

For a full-scale project that includes furnishings, flooring, false ceilings, and all execution, the total project costs can range widely, with small apartments potentially ranging from BDT 1.5 lakh to 5 lakh and larger, luxury homes easily exceeding BDT 25 lakh.

2. Fixed Fee or Lump Sum

Under this model, the designer charges a single, predetermined cost for the entire scope of work or for specific design phases. This provides the client with cost predictability, as there are no surprises regarding the design fee from the outset. This fee is calculated based on the estimated number of hours, project complexity, and total services provided.

3. Hourly Rate

Hourly rates are often utilized for shorter-term projects, initial consultations, or styling advice. In Bangladesh, the average hourly rate for a professional designer can range from BDT ৳1,000 to ৳5,000, varying with the designer’s experience and the project’s complexity.

4. Percentage of Project Cost

In this model, the designer’s fee is a percentage (typically 10% to 30%) of the total project expenditure, which includes all materials, labor, and furniture. This flexible method is common for large-scale, complex renovations or custom new-builds, such as designing a large Duplex Home Interior Design.

The Core Cost Drivers – What Influences Your Budget?

The final cost of your Home Interior Spaces is a multifaceted mosaic, driven by several key factors that must be considered during the planning phase.

1. Size and Scope of the Project

Unsurprisingly, the size of the space is the most significant determinant of cost.

  • Small Projects (e.g., Single Rooms, Small Apartments under 1,000 SFT): The cost for a basic to mid-range design for a small apartment might range from BDT 1.5 lakh to BDT 5 lakh. Individual room designs are more granular: a Living Room Interior Design Cost can range from BDT 1 lakh to BDT 15 lakh+ depending on the level of luxury, while a Bedroom Interior Design Cost typically falls between BDT 1.5 lakh and 3.5 lakh.
  • Large and Duplex Projects: For large or Luxury Home Interior Design projects over 1,500 SFT, total costs frequently range from BDT 10 lakh to BDT 25 lakh or more. The sheer scale of a duplex necessitates higher material, labor, and time investment, pushing the total project cost into the premium and luxury tiers.

2. Material Quality and Finishes

The choice between locally sourced, budget-friendly materials and high-end, imported finishes will drastically alter the budget.

  • Budget: Local melamine boards, standard tiles, and basic paint finishes.
  • Luxury: Imported marble, marine plywood, premium laminates, hardwood flooring, and custom-made furniture pieces. High-quality materials inherently carry a bigger price tag and are a primary reason why luxury interior design is more expensive.

3. Design Style and Complexity

The aesthetic you choose directly impacts the complexity of the craftsmanship and the materials required.

  • Modern Minimalist Residence Design: This style, focused on simplicity, clean lines, and functionality, often has a lower-to-mid-range SFT cost, generally between BDT 1,500 to BDT 3,000 per square foot for full execution. It favors neutral palettes and fewer custom pieces.
  • Traditional Luxury/Vintage Residence Interior: Designs that incorporate intricate woodwork, opulent fabrics, antique-style furniture, and detailed craftsmanship—such as a Vintage Residence Interior—fall into the higher price brackets. The cost for a Traditional Luxury design can range from BDT 3,500 to BDT 6,000 per square foot. This reflects the higher cost of premium materials (marble, silk) and the time-consuming detail work.

4. Designer’s Experience and Reputation

Established and reputable firms, like Revival Architects (you can learn more about us and our approach here: About Us), command higher fees. This is because their experience translates into efficient project management, better material sourcing, problem-solving expertise, and a guaranteed quality of work, which ultimately adds value to your home. Choosing a trusted company can, in the long run, save you money by preventing costly mistakes.

5. Breakdown of Project Budget Allocation

Understanding where your money goes is crucial for effective budgeting. The following table provides a typical breakdown of the total execution budget for a full-scale interior design project in Bangladesh, though these percentages can vary significantly based on material choice and the complexity of the design (e.g., a Luxury Home Interior Design will allocate a higher percentage to premium finishes).

Budget ComponentApproximate Percentage of Total Project CostKey Items Included
Woodwork & Cabinetry35% – 50%Built-in furniture, kitchen cabinets, wardrobes, custom shelving, storage units (major material cost: plywood, laminates, veneer).
Civil & Finishing15% – 25%Flooring (tiles, marble, wooden), false ceilings, wall finishes (paint, wallpaper, paneling), structural modifications.
Furniture & Decor10% – 20%Custom-designed or ready-made sofas, beds, dining sets, lighting fixtures, curtains, and decorative accessories.
Electrical & Plumbing5% – 10%Wiring, switches, power outlets, custom lighting, specialized plumbing fixtures, and kitchen/bathroom fittings.
Design Fee, Labor & Overhead5% – 15%Professional design fee, labor wages, contractor profit, and site supervision costs.

The Investment Value of Professional Interior Design

Viewing the cost of an interior designer merely as an expense is a misconception. It is, in fact, an investment that yields significant returns in functionality, aesthetics, and property value.

Avoiding Costly Errors

A professional firm like Revival Architects brings expertise in technical drawings, material procurement, and contractor management. This precision is invaluable in avoiding errors that lead to expensive rework, delays, and wasted materials issues that often plague unguided projects.

Maximizing Space and Functionality

For modern city living, especially in Dhaka, optimizing every inch of space is crucial. A designer specializes in efficient space planning, which is essential for making smaller Home Interior Spaces feel larger and more organized. They transform houses into homes that truly fit a client’s lifestyle, taste, and needs. This is particularly vital for intricate designs like a Modern Minimalist Residence Design, where every element must be purposeful.

Access to Resources and Expertise

When you partner with us for your next project, you gain access to a network of reliable suppliers and craftsmen, often at better rates. You can view examples of our design excellence and past projects here: Our Portfolio. The combination of experience and access ensures your vision, whether it’s a sleek Modern Minimalist Residence Design or an ornate Vintage Residence Interior, is executed to the highest standard.

Planning Your Interior Design Budget with Revival Architects

To get the most accurate estimate for your specific Residence Design in Bangladesh project, prospective clients should follow a clear process.

Step 1: Define Your Scope and Style

  • Decide if you need a full-service, end-to-end design (design planning and execution) or just consultation and design concepts.
  • Clarify your desired aesthetic is it Modern Minimalist Residence DesignLuxury Home Interior Design, or a personalized mix? Having a clear style, such as a Vintage Residence Interior, helps the designer immediately gauge the material cost and labor complexity.

Step 2: Establish a Clear Budget

Know your financial limits before the project begins. This allows your design firm to tailor material suggestions and design complexity to fit your bracket, helping you avoid overspending. Our team offers a full suite of services that can be customised to your project’s specific needs and budget; explore all the possibilities on Our Services.

Step 3: Consult and Compare

Engage with multiple firms, but prioritize those with a proven track record. When discussing your project, a specialized team like ours will provide a detailed breakdown, ensuring you understand exactly what your money is covering. Whether you are planning a sprawling Duplex Home Interior Design or a cozy, custom-designed apartment, we invite you to start the conversation.

We specialize in crafting exceptional living environments, turning conceptual designs into functional, beautiful realities. To take the next step in bringing your vision to life, we encourage you to view our dedicated page for Residence Design in Bangladesh and see how our expertise can benefit your project.

Conclusion

The question of “How much does an interior designer cost” ultimately boils down to the level of quality, complexity, and customization you desire. In Bangladesh, the total investment for interior design can range from a few lakh for a simple apartment to over a crore for a high-end Luxury Home Interior Design or custom Duplex Home Interior Design. By understanding the per-square-foot rates, the factors that drive cost, and the immense value of professional expertise, you can confidently partner with a firm like Revival Architects to create a home that is both a functional masterpiece and a lasting investment.

To begin your design journey and receive a personalized quotation tailored to your specific needs and budget, please contact Revival Architects today.