How Interior Design Consultants Create Tailored Solutions and Structure Their Fees

Patrick Mwiandi
Jan 18
4 min read

By Esther W. Watene, Head of Interior Design, Tech Home EA Ltd.

Interior design consultants play a crucial role in transforming spaces to reflect the client’s personality, needs, and lifestyle. Yet, many people wonder how these professionals build their solutions and decide on their fees. Understanding this process can help clients feel more confident and informed when hiring a consultant. This post breaks down the typical steps interior design consultants follow to create personalised designs and explains the common ways they charge for their work, including key milestones that can affect pricing.

Eye-level view of a modern living room with a consultant discussing plans with a client — Interior design consultant discussing room layout with client

How Interior Design Consultants Build Your Solution

Initial Consultation and Needs Assessment

The process usually starts with an initial consultation. This meeting helps the consultant understand the client’s goals, style preferences, budget, and timeline. The consultant may visit the space to take measurements and assess existing conditions. This phase is essential because it sets the foundation for the entire project.

During this stage, the consultant often asks questions such as:

What is the primary function of the space?
Are there any specific styles or colours you prefer?
What is your budget range?
What is your timeline for completion?

This information guides the consultant in creating a design that fits the client’s lifestyle and expectations.

Concept Development and Design Proposal

After gathering information, the consultant develops a concept that includes mood boards, sketches, or digital renderings. This helps clients visualise the overall look and feel of the space. The consultant may present several options or variations to ensure the client’s vision is captured accurately.

At this milestone, the consultant also outlines the scope of work, including:

Furniture and fixture selection
Colour schemes and materials
Lighting plans
Layout adjustments

Clients can provide feedback, and the consultant refines the design accordingly. This collaborative approach ensures the final plan meets the client’s needs.

Detailed Design and Documentation

Once the concept is approved, the consultant prepares detailed drawings, specifications, and material lists. These documents guide contractors and suppliers during the implementation phase. The consultant may also coordinate with architects, contractors, or other specialists to ensure the design is feasible and meets building codes.

This stage often includes:

Floor plans and elevations
Custom furniture designs
Lighting and electrical plans
Selection of finishes and fabrics

Clear documentation reduces misunderstandings and helps keep the project on track.

Project Management and Implementation Support

Some interior design consultants offer project management services. They oversee the ordering of materials, scheduling of contractors, and quality control during installation. This service ensures the design is executed as planned and helps resolve any issues that arise.

Consultants may conduct site visits, coordinate deliveries, and manage timelines. This hands-on involvement can be especially valuable for clients who lack the time or experience to handle these details.

How Interior Design Consultants Charge for Their Work

Common Fee Structures

Interior design consultants use different methods to charge for their services. The choice often depends on the project size, complexity, and client preferences. Here are the most common fee structures:

Hourly Rate

Consultants charge a set amount per hour. This method suits smaller projects or when clients want advice on specific issues. Hourly rates vary widely depending on location and experience, but typically range from KES 8,000 to KES20,000 per hour.

Fixed Fee

A flat fee is agreed upon for the entire project or a defined phase. This approach provides cost certainty but requires a clear scope of work upfront. Fixed fees are common for well-defined projects with limited changes.

Percentage of Project Cost

The consultant charges a percentage of the total project budget, usually between 10% and 25%. This method aligns the consultant’s fee with the project scale and complexity.

Cost Plus

The consultant adds a markup to the cost of furniture, materials, and labour. This structure is less common but can work when the consultant handles purchasing and logistics.

Changeable Milestones Affecting Fees

Fees can change based on milestones or adjustments during the project. Some typical milestones include:

Initial Design Approval

A deposit or partial payment is often required once the concept design is approved. This milestone confirms the client’s commitment and covers preliminary work.

Material and Furniture Selection

Additional fees may apply when the consultant spends time sourcing and selecting specific items. Changes in selections can increase costs.

Construction or Installation Phase

If the consultant manages the project, fees may increase to cover site visits, coordination, and problem-solving.

Revisions and Scope Changes

Significant changes after design approval often lead to extra charges. Consultants usually outline how revisions affect fees in their contracts.

Example of a Fee Breakdown

For a mid-sized residential project, a consultant might charge:

KES15,000 per hour for consultations and design development
A fixed fee of KES300,000 for detailed drawings and specifications
15% of the total furniture and materials cost for procurement and project management

This combination allows flexibility while keeping the client informed about costs at each stage.

High angle view of interior design plans and fabric samples on a table — Interior design consultant reviewing plans and fabric samples

Tips for Working with Interior Design Consultants

Define Your Budget Clearly

Be upfront about your budget from the start. This helps the consultant tailor solutions that fit your financial limits and avoid surprises later.

Communicate Your Priorities

Share what matters most to you, whether it’s functionality, style, sustainability, or comfort. Clear priorities help the consultant focus on what will make the biggest impact.