What to Expect When Working with an Interior Designer
If you’ve never worked with an interior designer before, you might be wondering—how does it work? How are fees structured? How long does the process take? We’re here to demystify the experience so you know exactly what to expect.
PROJECT: LEMONADE INSURANCE
Understanding Industry Roles: Who Does What?
Not all design professionals serve the same function, and their education and qualifications vary. Here’s a quick breakdown of key roles in the industry:
Stylist – Specializes in final touches, arranging decor and staging spaces for photography or real estate. No formal education is required, but experience in art or interior styling is common.
Interior Decorator – Focuses solely on aesthetics, including furnishings, color palettes, and styling, without modifying layouts or structural elements. No formal education or licensing is required.
Draftsperson – Creates technical drawings and construction documents for permitting and building. Typically has a certification or associate’s degree in drafting or CAD.
Interior Designer – Specializes in balancing function and aesthetics, including space planning, materials selection, and overall design for remodels, new builds, and furnishings. In Arizona, licensing is not required. Many hold a bachelor’s degree in interior design.
Architect – Designs structural layouts, renovations, and new builds, ensuring code compliance and safety. Requires a professional degree, licensure, and exams in Arizona.
At Mackenzie Collier Interiors, we offer full-service interior design, guiding clients through everything from remodels and new construction to furnishings and styling while collaborating with architects and contractors as needed.
How Interior Designers Structure Their Fees
Common Fee Structures in the Industry
Interior designers structure their fees in a variety of ways depending on the scope of the project, the designer’s expertise, and their business model. Here are the most common pricing structures:
Hourly Rate – Many designers charge an hourly rate for their time, covering everything from space planning to product sourcing, meetings, and project oversight. Rates vary widely based on experience and location.
Flat Fee / Fixed Rate – A set fee for the entire project, determined upfront. This is common for well-defined projects with clear scopes, such as furniture & decor packages or new build designs.
Cost-Plus Markup – Some designers purchase products at a discounted trade rate and charge a markup on furniture, materials, and finishes, typically between 20-40%. Their design fee might be lower up front because they make a significant portio of their profit from marking up products.
Percentage of Project Cost – Some firms charge a percentage of the total project cost, typically ranging from 10-30%, as their design fee.
Retainer-Based Pricing – Some designers require an upfront retainer before work begins, which may be applied toward hourly services or used as a deposit against future design work.
How We Structure Fees at MCI
At Mackenzie Collier Interiors, we believe in transparent and fair pricing. Here’s how we structure our fees:
Hourly Fees
We charge an hourly rate for most design services, including space planning, remodels, and project oversight. This ensures flexibility and allows us to scale services to fit your needs.
Flat Fees for Furniture & Decor
For furniture and decor projects, we offer a clear, flat fee instead of hourly billing, so you know exactly what to expect. We are able to do this because we have a very structured design process and we know exactly how long it will take us to complete each step to deliver a result you’ll love.
No Markups on Purchasing
Unlike many firms, we do not upcharge on furniture and decor. We price everything at public retail pricing, except for custom or trade-only items. You get full transparency on costs.
Flexible Purchasing Options
You can either purchase items independently or hire us to handle procurement and styling in your space—it’s your choice!
How Long Does the Interior Design Process Take?
Good design takes time! The timeline depends on scope and complexity, but here’s a general idea:
Remodels & New Build Design – Typically takes 4-6 weeks to develop the design before construction begins.
Construction Oversight – Once the design is finalized, we oversee the construction process, which typically takes 6-12 weeks depending on scope.
Furniture & Decor – While construction is underway, we typically spend about 6 weeks working on designing and sourcing furnishings and decor.
The timing for furniture and decor depends on what you select:
Retail furniture – Typically available within 8-12 weeks of purchase.
Custom pieces – Lead times vary but can be faster or longer depending on the vendor.
Our Design Process: What to Expect
Every project follows a structured process to ensure a smooth, seamless experience. Here’s how we work:
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Measure and photograph the space
Recreate the existing layout in AutoCAD
Meet with the client to discuss project goals, inspiration, and preferences
Develop an initial concept, color palette, and material selections
Perform product research and present a teaser concept for feedback
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Determine a layout and explore design possibilities
Develop 2D and 3D renderings of the space
Research products and materials
Create specifications and project drawings
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Finalize 2D and 3D drawings
Prepare a Fixtures & Finishes Schedule
Create a digital project package with detailed specifications
Present the project for client review and make necessary revisions
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Assist during the bidding and construction process as the client’s advocate
Answer any construction-related questions and problem-solve as needed
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Source furniture, textiles, artwork, and accessories
Create project documents reflecting the design
Present the furniture and decor selections for approval
Manage product procurement (optional service)
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If you choose to procure through us:
We order, track, receive, and inspect all products
Coordinate vendor installations and deliveries
Handle any issues that arise with orders or installation
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Conduct a final walkthrough to ensure all construction, furnishings, and decor meet expectations
Resolve any final issues before officially closing out the project
Final Thoughts: Creating a Home You Love Takes Time
Working with an interior designer is an investment in both your home and your lifestyle. The best results come from thoughtful planning, expert execution, and patience—great design isn’t rushed. Whether you’re tackling a remodel, new build, or full-scale furniture and decor project, understanding the process will help set expectations for a smooth, rewarding experience.
If you’re ready to bring your dream space to life, let’s talk! We’d love to help you design a home that’s both beautiful and functional.
