How Much Does Virtual Interior Design Cost?

Let’s face it - it’s the digital age, and though that doesn’t always come with the best experiences, I’d say virtual interior design is definitely one of the positives.

E-design has emerged as a convenient and cost-effective alternative to traditional, in-person interior design services for the better.

With the ability to transform your living space in a way that fits your schedule and lifestyle, virtual interior design offers a world of possibilities to so many more people.

But just how much does it cost,
and what are the key factors to consider when estimating the expense?


In this blog post, we delve into the pros of virtual interior design, and the elements that can impact your budget so that you can be prepared when you’re ready to re-decorate your own space!

Virtual Interior Design
VS.
In-Person Design: A New Frontier

Virtual interior design represents a significant departure from the traditional in-person model, and it's important to understand the differences (read more on that here).

One of the most striking distinctions is cost!

Virtual interior design tends to be more budget-friendly, making professional design accessible to a wider range of clients. This cost savings is often attributed to several factors, including reduced overhead and the ability to work with clients from anywhere, allowing designers to serve a global clientele.

However, the cost-effectiveness of virtual interior design does come with a trade-off: increased client involvement.

Clients are required to actively participate in the design process, providing input, measurements, and feedback, which can be more time-consuming compared to what you would spend hiring an in-person designer. BUT - While it may seem like more work, this approach also offers unique advantages!

A lower cost to entry is number 1, but you will also have a more hands-on role in shaping your spaces, which can result in a highly personalized design that truly reflects your tastes and needs.

Factors Influencing the Cost of Virtual Interior Design

1. Scope of the Project:

The size and complexity of your project will have a significant impact on the cost. A single room redesign will be less expensive than a full-house transformation.

2. Designer's Experience:

The expertise and reputation of the virtual interior designer will affect the cost. Highly experienced designers may charge higher fees.

3. Design Fee:

The primary cost is the design fee, which encompasses tasks such as concept development, color schemes, and furniture selection. The complexity and number of revisions can influence this fee.

4. Sourcing and Purchasing:

Some designers offer to source and purchase furniture and decor, with fees based on a percentage of the total cost or a flat fee. I don’t currently offer this service in order to keep my prices low and more accessible, therefore all of my clients purchase and order their own physical items.

5. Project Management:

For extensive projects, designers may provide project management services, overseeing the implementation of the design plan, which can incur additional costs. This leans more into an official designer role rather than a decorator role (Read my blog post defining the difference between the two terms if you don’t already know).

6. Client Involvement:

Clients must actively participate in the design process, providing information, measurements, and feedback. This involvement impacts the amount of work required and may influence the final cost.

Typically this would keep the cost lower since you are doing a bit more of the work than you would with an in-person designer. But it’s also a benefit allowing you more of an awareness of your space, what you like and dislike, and how to decorate other spaces moving forward.

Creating Sustainable and
Budget-Friendly Homes
with Virtual Interior Design

Virtual interior design not only offers a cost-effective alternative but I utilize it as a unique approach to creating sustainable, environmentally conscious spaces.

With my virtual design packages, your design plan becomes the foundational blueprint from which you can embark on a journey of gradual transformation.

This approach allows you to make thoughtful and budget-friendly choices over time, while also being open to the possibility of incorporating antique, consignment, or thrifted items that resonate with your design vision.

This also allows you to search for pieces you really love, instead of just going with what’s immediately available. Purchasing pieces you deeply enjoy increases the likelihood that you keep the item for a lot longer than you would pieces you purchased on a whim - another sustainable win (woo-hoo)!

Flexibility is Abundant!

The beauty of this virtual design approach lies in its flexibility.

Like mentioned before, rather than rushing to purchase all items at once, you can gradually acquire pieces that align with your vision as you find them.

You also get to hire a designer that fits with your aesthetic and personality, no matter where they are located.

So… what about the cost?

HERE’S SOME NUMBERS:

Let me break it down for you:

Coming in at the most expensive and most hands off, in-person designers will cost anywhere from an average of $1,000 - $5,000 per room (or more).


The cheapest and most hands on option is virtual design via “big-box” website like Havenly ranging from $50-$200 depending on your desired package per room.

But what if you’re wanting something in the middle?

If you’re someone who likes supporting small businesses, wants a more personalized experience, but also wants help with designing your room on a budget, that’s where I come in.


Finding and hiring a virtual designer that runs their own business and shares your own values is going to be key for having a good experience pulling together your space.

Think about it like the good old-fashioned Goldilocks scenario. You don’t want something too small, and you don’t want something too big - you want something juuuuuuust right!

My pricing currently starts at $750 per room and goes up from there depending on how much extra support you want along the journey.

Meet your Virtual Interior Designer

I'm Kathryn, your personal design companion!

I'm here to make your design adventure an enjoyable one, whether you're eager to makeover your space entirely, explore sustainable swaps, or gradually transform your space with cherished finds.

I understand that this is not just about creating a beautiful interior; it's about crafting a sanctuary that reflects your unique personality and values. I'm ready to offer my expertise with a personal touch, like a friend who's always there to help.

Please don't hesitate to reach out; I'd love to chat with you and begin this wonderful design journey together.

Contact me today, and let's turn your dreams into reality, one beautiful and meaningful space at a time.

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