Spoiler: It’s probably less than the cost of redoing everything twice. And way less than living in a space that never quite feels like you.
Introduction: Let’s Talk Numbers (Without the Fluff)
If you’ve ever looked around your home and thought, “I want something better” but immediately followed it with, “But how much will this cost me?” — you’re not alone.
We get it. Budget is one of the first questions our clients ask, and rightly so. You want to understand what you’re walking into — no jargon, no mystery pricing, and definitely no sticker shock. In this blog, we’ll unpack exactly what goes into the cost of hiring an interior designer in Kolkata, so you can make confident and informed decisions.
And hey, we’ll even throw in a free cost planning worksheet to help you get started — because we believe good design should never feel out of reach.
What Factors Affect Interior Design Costs?
Let’s get one thing straight — there’s no one-size-fits-all price tag when it comes to interior design. Here’s what actually influences the numbers:
1. Scope of the Project
Designing a 2BHK is very different from a 4,000 sq. ft. bungalow. More space = more work = more investment.
2. Type of Service
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Design-only (concept + drawings)
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Design + Project Management (end-to-end execution)
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Design + Furniture Customization (which we offer via Inside Storii)
3. Material Choices
Italian marble floors vs. patterned vitrified tiles? Custom hardwood cabinetry vs. modular? Your taste drives the finish cost.
4. Timeline
A rushed timeline often comes with expedited costs. A realistic timeline gives better financial breathing room.
Typical Cost Structures in Kolkata
Here’s what you can typically expect in terms of charges for a professionally executed interior design project in Kolkata.
1. Consultation Fees
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One-time design consultation: INR 2,000 – 10,000+
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Some studios (like ours) may offer complimentary first consultations
2. Design Fees
Charged as:
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A percentage of the total project cost (typically 7% to 15%)
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Or per sq. ft. (usually INR 100 – 1000/sq. ft. depending on scope)
Example: For a 2,000 sq. ft. apartment:
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Total interior budget: INR 50 lakhs
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Design fee @10%: INR 5 lakhs
3. Execution / PMC (Project Management Consultancy)
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PMC fees may range between 5%–12% of the project cost
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Often bundled with the design fee by full-service firms like Vivid Concept
4. Furniture & Decor
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Factory-made (Inside Storii) = cost-effective & custom
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Outsourced = higher cost & lower control
5. Third-Party Costs
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Civil changes, electricals, HVAC, etc.
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Paid directly to contractors or managed via the firm
Budgeting Smart: What to Expect at Different Price Points
| Budget Range | What You Can Expect |
|---|---|
| INR 5–10 Lakhs | Smart design upgrades, modular furniture, basic customization |
| INR 10–20 Lakhs | Full-house makeover, some custom furniture, better finishes |
| INR 20 Lakhs & above | Bespoke interiors, turnkey project, premium materials |
Note: These ranges are for full home interiors in Kolkata, including design, furniture, execution, and decor.
Why Hiring an Interior Designer is Actually Cost-Effective
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Avoid Costly Mistakes: Design errors during execution cost 3x more than getting it right the first time.
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Better Vendor Rates: We bring in pre-vetted vendors and negotiated pricing.
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Material Optimization: We don’t overspend — we smart-spend.
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Time = Money: A delayed project has cost overruns. We run tight ships.
How Vivid Concept Maximizes Your ROI
At Vivid Concept, we believe design should be beautiful, intentional, and financially smart. Here’s how we do it:
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A research & process-driven approach to design
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Realistic budget planning from Day 1
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Integration with Inside Storii for seamless furniture execution
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Transparent costing & milestone-linked payment schedules
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Value-engineered suggestions without compromising design integrity
We don’t chase trends. We design around your life, your needs, and your vision — with a sharp eye on where your money goes.
Final Thoughts: The Real Question is — What’s It Worth to You?
Interior design isn’t an expense. It’s an investment — in better living, better working, and better use of space. Especially in a city like Kolkata where homes are getting more compact, smarter design makes all the difference.
If you’re ready to explore what’s possible within your budget, we’d love to hear from you.