We always have this query of what is the cost of interior design in Kenya for your office or home? While detailed calculations are always possible and can be provided based on measurements, we have tried to define a rough estimate to guide you.
Getting your office or home designed by a professional is something we’re all considering because it’s in vogue and seems like the smart thing to do. However, we’re also plagued with skepticism about one thing — how much is the cost of Interior Design in Kenya?
We did the homework for you to get you to alleviate any doubts you may have. Also, it helps you prepare your bargains with the designers.
Cost of Interior Design in Kenya
While some interior designers take up only the designing, some help you pick the furniture and decor as well. If you want a hassle-free experience, then check for a designer who can supervise the entire work from procurement of furniture and decor, carpentry work for the kitchen and wardrobes along with installation.
For any civil work required, check the entire scope. False ceiling, flooring and painting are also considered as separate services. The cost of Interior Design in Kenya varies based on all these tasks and services.
How are Designer Charges Computed? Cost of Interior Design in Kenya
If you think that designers usually take a lump sum amount for a design, that’s not always the case. There are different ways a designer can compute the cost.
- Per Sqft: Based on the area of the space, the designer charges around KSh 1,000 per sqft and this can go upto 10,000 as well, if you’re looking for design alone. However, inclusive of products, carpentry i.e, modular kitchen and wardrobes, flooring and ceiling, this price can shoot upto KSh 30,000 too. It is better to check with the designer on what it includes as the some of them only offer woodwork or some exclude soft furnishings like curtains, blinds and so on.
- Percentage of Overall Cost: The designer calculates the overall price of the project inclusive of products and services. Based on the total cost, they will charge around 6%-15% as a design fee. This can shoot upto 20% based on the level of design and expertise involved.
- Markup on Products: In layman terms, this means the designer will charge a premium on every product you buy. Eg: If your sofa’s cost price is around KSh 200,000, the designer may mark it as KSh 220,000 while charging it to the project. The premium varies from project to project.
- A Lump Sum: This is purely based on the designer’s discretion on how much they want to charge for a project. It can be based on a percentage, commission, per sqft or a combination of two or more categories. In many cases, the designers call this a fee and there is no transparency on what basis this is charged.
Add-on Charges on
But that’s not all! Interior design is a long process that involves multiple visits and iterations. But not everyone provides you with ample choices. Here are some rates you might have to encounter.
Site Visit Charges: While the first 3-4 visits might be included in the fee they charge, anything over and above it can cost on an average of 2,000 per visit.
Iteration Charges: If you’re not satisfied with one design or require ample changes to be made multiple times, designers may charge a fee. Usually, they share 3-4 iterations without any fee. Anything more than will be chargeable. So check with your designer before you willy-nilly ask for different designs.
Design-only Cost: If it’s only the design you want, the designer can charge around KSh 150,000 for just furniture placement and ideas. For a three-dimensional (3D) view, the cost can go up. Some designers charge per room view as well, which can vary from per view. Hence, they consider the size of the home, along with the number of rooms.
Site Supervision Cost: If you want the designer to be present at the site to supervise the installation or carpentry, then they will charge you for the same. Here the cost of Interior Design in Kenya solely depends on what the project cost is.
