Interior Design Cost: A Breakdown

Interior design firms in Bangladesh follow the work on the cost of work (lump sum) basis or square foot basis. The approach will differ based on the extent and complexity of work.

1. Cost Per Square Foot (SFT)

This is the broadest fee structure for total interior designing and execution. This is a simple formula to use in the process of estimating the cost, with an approximate figure of the total amount.

• • Average Range: Interior design per square foot rate in Bangladesh typically costs BDT 1,000 to BDT 5,000+.

• What the range means

• Budget to Mid-Range (BDT 1,000 – BDT 2,500/SFT): Ideal for functional but minimal. It entails the use of materials which are locally available like melamine boards, local wood, regular tiles, and below standard paint finish. Functionalities and minimalism and plain fittings like cabinets, wardrobes, and simple false ceiling are given priority. An out-of-pocket-optional option for small flats and price-sensitive home buyers.
• Mid to High-Range (BDT 2,500 – BDT 4,000/SFT): The prices under this range offer a better quality material, better designs, and premium finishes. Fixtures here include import-finished fixtures, marine plywood, premium laminates, first-class fixtures, and premium lighting. Here, you get more for customizing in the form of premium finishing.
• Luxury & Premium (BDT 4,000+/SFT): Far from unheard of is a price per square foot of over BDT 4,000 for the premium segment of the market. These are buildings that need the crème de la crème in finishes, from imported marble and hardwood floors to home automation, custom furniture, and leading global brands for accessories and interior design. The effort will be extremely well suited and done with superior attention to detail.

2. Flat Fee or Total Project

Certain design firms, particularly for specialty or small projects, may have a single, flat fee. It is used primarily to:

• Single Room Makeover: Such as bedroom, living room, or kitchen design.
• Consultation Services: Concept designing cost, 2D/3D layout designing cost, and material suggestion but not installation. It will be BDT 20,000 to BDT 1,00,000+. It depends on company reputation and consultancy department.
• Commercial Projects: There will be a total project fee for a small office or medium office, restaurants, or showrooms.

Example Project Costs

• Small Flat (1,000 SFT): A budget interior design project will be BDT 10 to 25 lakh.
• Medium House (1,500 SFT): A mid-range one will be BDT 37.5 to 60 lakh.
• Large Luxury Flat (2,500 SFT): A luxury, high-end design will be BDT 1 crore and above.

Key Considerations That Determine the Price of Interior Design

Knowing the average price is the tip of the iceberg. To be able to create an effective budget, you should know why the price increases and decreases.

1. Project Size

It is the largest factor by far. The price will skyrocket according to what will be done.

• Full-Face Overhaul: Civil work (demolition, wall alteration), flooring, false ceiling, electrical and plumbing, customized furniture, and decoration. Most expensive type of project.
• Partial Makeover: Select specific rooms such as the sitting room and a bedroom but not extensive structure modification.
• Decoration Only: Most economical, simply selecting the furniture, paint, lighting, and decorating, no extensive building.

2. Materials and Finishes

Selecting the material only can double or even triple the entire price tag.

• Local vs. Imported: Local wood, tiles, and fixtures are very low-priced compared to imported. European imported material, Turkish, and Chinese are expensive.
• Quality and Type: Standard melamine board versus, marine plywood for cabinet cost, is too costly. So also quartz or granite versus use of average laminates or tiles as counter tops in the kitchen.
• Bespoke vs Ready-Made: Custom-made furniture will be more costly than purchasing ready-made furniture from the showroom. Bespoke appearance and flawless fit do accompany bespoke furniture, but it is more time consuming, more effort, and better material.

3. Location of the Property

Interior design fees in large cities like Dhaka and Chittagong are more than in small cities. Assuming a better quality of life, labor rate, and demand for quality service are higher.

4. Experience and Reputation of the Designer

A reputable commercial interior design firm with solid background and portfolio of outstanding work will be more expensive than a new firm or independent service. You are not only paying for the design, but their experience, management on the project, and assurance of good quality being completed timely.

5. Design Complexity

A simple line of design and plain finishes will be cheaper than one with rich wood work, properly finished false ceilings, or elaborate paneling on the walls. Specialty features like a home theatre system, a bar, or in-house bookcase will also be included in the final bill.

6. Labor and Installation

Work on higher-level projects such as detailed carpentry, wiring, and tiling costs more. A design company that operates from an in-house facility has accomplished craftspeople who produce a quality product but increase the project’s overall expense.

Budgeting for Your Interior Design Project

Budgeting is essential to maintain your budget and reduce unexpected expenditures.

1. Establish Your Requirements and Priorities

Even before you lift the phone to dial a designer, make a wish list. Your top-on-the-list requirement? Your sole absolute no-way-no-how (i.e., walk-in closet or modular kitchen)? What will you sacrifice? This will warn the designer of your dream and be able to plan on budget.

2. Get Multiple Quotes

Call at least three reputable interior design firms. You need to ask them for a line item, itemized quote where it mentions the material cost, labor cost, and designer’s fee. So you can see how much everything costs and what you are paying for in each package.

3. Ask for a Package Overview

Most contractors have several packages (e.g., “Basic,” “Premium,” “Luxury”) for a fixed price per square foot. Have them itemize what is in each package of materials and services so that you can make an informed decision.

4. Contingency Budgeting

It is always wise to put a little extra, 10-15% of your entire budget, on the side for contingency costs. It may be anything from altering material selection to unforeseen accidents involving the property over the course of renovation.

5. Be Clear in Communication

Be sincere to your designer regarding the budget on the first meeting. A professional designer will be aware of that and will provide cost-effective solutions along with alternative material or design in a manner that the budget will be maintained without any compromise regarding quality or appearance.

Room-Specific Breakdown of Costs

Although cost per square meter is an estimate, the following is an estimate of the cost of designing single rooms, which will presumably be the most costly to design.

Interior Design Cost of a Kitchen

The kitchen would prove to be the costliest room to design due to the complexity involved in the work as well as the number of fittings and appliances.

• Approximate Price: An ultra-large luxury kitchen with international brand fittings and appliances may start from anything more than BDT 5 lakh to 10 lakh or more, while a minimalist modular kitchen may start from BDT 1.2 lakh to 1.8 lakh for compact space.
• Key Cost Drivers: Cabinetry material (marine plywood, MDF), countertop (granite, quartz), and appliances (hood, hob, oven, etc.).

Bedroom Interior Design Cost

Bedrooms are personal and intimate rooms.

• Estimated Cost: The overall bedroom interior design would be BDT 1.5 lakh to 3.5 lakh depending on size and complexity.
• Key Cost Drivers: Bedding, false ceilings, wardrobes, lights, and accessories.

Living Room Interior Design Cost

Living room is the center of the home.

• Estimated Cost: Living room design would be BDT 2.5 lakh to 5 lakh+.
• Major Cost Drivers: Specially ordered sofa sets, TV cabinets, wall paneling, false ceiling, lighting fittings and accessories.

FAQ – Interior Design Cost in Bangladesh

1. What is the minimum cost of interior design? 

Interior stylists and decorators charge home interior design price anywhere from 80 Taka to 700 Taka per sq. ft. If furnishing, flooring, false ceiling, etc., are included, the rates may be as high as 3000 Taka to 7000 Taka per sq. ft.

2. Why is interior design so expensive?

Premium Materials and Finishes

Better materials come with a bigger price tag, and they are especially important in luxury interior design. Imported marbles, high quality laminates, hardwood flooring, PU and acrylics, along with expensive upholstery contribute to a high price tag.

3. Do interior designers save you money?

While hiring an interior designer may seem like an added expense, their expertise in budget management, efficiency, and problem-solving ultimately leads to substantial cost savings.

4. Is interior design a stressful job?

Working as an interior designer is VERY stressful and not as glamorous as it might seem! There’s also a lot of risk and pressure involved with design work, that many don’t realise when they enter the industry.

5. What is the minimum budget for interior design?

The cost of decorating a living room depends on furniture, lighting, wall treatments, and decor.

Basic Living Room: 1,00,000 – 3,00,000. Taka

Mid-Range Design: 3,00,000 – 6,00,000. Taka

Premium Luxury Design: 6,00,000 – 15,00,000+ Taka

Conclusion: Your Dream House Comes True

Interior design in Bangladesh is an expense that will be solely based on your needs and desires. It can be very tempting to simply get by with just the bare minimum, but remember well-designed things and well-thought-out concepts are worth more than their weight in gold. Not only do they bring beauty to your house, but its functionality, warmth, and worth as well.

By understanding the different prices, the most significant cost factors, and by budgeting in advance, you can proceed with your interior design with complete assurance. If it is a low budget or a costly luxury, there is something for every fantasy and for every purse.