Let's get straight to it. You’re dreaming of a home that feels like a sanctuary, filled with handcrafted furniture from Verellen and draped in exquisite designer fabrics. But what does it really cost to bring that vision to life?
You’re smart to ask. In Atlanta, the investment for professional interior design services on a high-end project can start at a few thousand for a focused consultation and climb upwards of $50,000+ for a full-home, bespoke experience.
It’s not one-size-fits-all. And that's a good thing.
Your Guide to Interior Design Costs in Atlanta
Trying to pin down the cost of interior design can feel a bit like trying to catch smoke. There isn't a single, fixed price, because every project is unique. Every home, every client’s vision—it’s all custom.
Think of it like commissioning a piece of art. The final cost depends on the artist's renown, the complexity of the work, and the quality of the materials. The same principles apply to high-end interior design right here in Atlanta.
A project revamping a chic Buckhead high-rise will naturally have a different financial footprint than a sprawling new build in Milton. The numbers shift based on the scope, the designer’s expertise, and your appetite for true craftsmanship. For a deeper dive into how designers structure their fees, you'll find great information on understanding interior design consultation costs.
What This Guide Covers
This guide is your inside look at navigating a design budget with confidence. We're moving past generic numbers to talk about the real investment required for timeless quality. Whether you're a homeowner planning a major renovation in Roswell or a designer sourcing from our Atlanta fabric showroom, you’ll get clear answers on:
- Common Pricing Models: We’ll pull back the curtain on how designers structure their fees.
- Key Cost Factors: Discover what really drives a project's budget.
- Sample Atlanta Budgets: See realistic numbers for local luxury projects.
- Maximizing Your Investment: Learn smart strategies to get the most from your budget.
Setting Realistic Expectations for High-End Design
When you choose to invest in luxury furniture from brands like Wesley Hall or Lee Industries, you aren't just buying a sofa. You’re acquiring a future heirloom. The same mindset applies to professional design services.
The cost covers so much more than a floor plan and a pretty color palette. You are paying for a seasoned professional’s expertise, their exclusive network of artisans, and their skill in managing a complex project from first idea to flawless installation.
It's an investment in a seamless process and a result that truly reflects you.
A well-executed design project is a partnership. It combines your vision with a designer's expertise to create a space that is not only beautiful but also deeply personal and functional for years to come.
This guide is built to give you the knowledge to make smart, informed decisions. Step inside our Buckhead showroom, and you'll quickly understand why Atlanta’s most discerning homeowners and trade professionals trust us as their premier Atlanta interior design resource. It all begins with understanding the investment.
How Interior Designers Structure Their Fees
Figuring out how much an interior designer costs can feel like you’re trying to read a secret menu. But it’s no mystery—it’s just a set of different ways to charge that fit the specific needs of a project. Here in Atlanta, most designers use a few core methods.
Let's pull back the curtain.
Once you understand the "how," you can confidently pick the approach that makes sense for you, whether you're refreshing a living room in Roswell or furnishing a new home in Forsyth County. Think of this as your field guide to designer pricing.
The Four Main Pricing Models Explained
Most professional designers use one of four primary models to bill for their work. It’s not about which one is "best," but which one aligns with the scale and complexity of your vision.
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Hourly Rate: Straightforward. You pay for the designer's time, which covers everything from site visits and sourcing luxury furniture in Buckhead to managing contractors. It’s a great fit for consultations or smaller projects where the scope isn't nailed down from the start.
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Flat Fee: This gives you a single, all-in price for the entire project. The designer calculates this based on a detailed scope of work, giving you total budget clarity from day one. Perfect for anyone who wants cost predictability.
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Percentage of Project Cost: The designer's fee is a set percentage of your total project budget (furnishings, construction, etc.). This approach is great because it aligns everyone’s goals—the designer is motivated to manage the budget effectively while delivering a top-notch result.
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Cost-Plus: Often used for purchasing furniture and other goods. The designer buys items—like a stunning Wesley Hall sofa or a handcrafted Verellen piece—at a trade discount and sells it to you at that cost, plus a predetermined markup.
This last model, cost-plus, is a huge advantage for anyone looking for true luxury furniture in Atlanta. It opens the door to exclusive, to-the-trade collections you simply can't find in a retail store. It’s how you get that truly custom, curated look that sets a home apart.
Matching the Model to Your Project Scope
So, which pricing structure is right for you? It often comes down to the size of your project. This decision tree can help you visualize which model might be the best fit.
As you can see, smaller, single-room projects often work perfectly with an hourly rate or a smaller flat fee. On the other hand, full-home designs benefit from the comprehensive nature of a larger flat fee or a percentage-based model.
Digging Into the Numbers
This variety in pricing allows for flexibility across different project scopes and budgets. Nationally, you'll see hourly rates from $100 to $500. Highly experienced designers in major cities like Atlanta command fees on the higher end of that spectrum.
For flat-fee projects, a single room might run from $2,000 to $8,000. A full-home design can start at $10,000 and go well beyond $50,000, all depending on the complexity of the job. You can dig into even more detailed cost breakdowns from data compiled by Angi.com.
The key takeaway? Transparency is everything. A great designer will walk you through their fee structure and explain exactly what you’re paying for. It’s a partnership built on trust and the shared goal of creating an exceptional home.
Whether you're sourcing fine fabrics in Alpharetta or embarking on a full-scale renovation in Buckhead, understanding these models is the first step. It empowers you to have a clear, productive conversation with a designer and ensures no surprises.
Ultimately, your investment should feel as comfortable and well-crafted as the Lee Industries chair you'll eventually relax in. This kind of clarity is the foundation of every successful luxury design project.
The Key Factors That Shape Your Final Project Cost
Ever look at two design projects that seem similar but have wildly different price tags? It’s not smoke and mirrors. A handful of specific variables are at play. Understanding them is the best way to get a handle on your budget and feel confident about your investment.
Think of it like getting a custom suit made. You have the base price, but the final cost depends on the fabric, the tailor’s reputation, and the intricacy of the design. The same logic applies to creating a home with real character and soul.
The Scope of Your Vision
This is the big one. The single most important factor driving your interior design services cost is the scope of your project. Are we talking a simple room refresh in Marietta, or a massive, down-to-the-studs renovation of a historic home in Buckhead?
A simple furniture and decor update is a completely different animal than a project that involves moving walls, reconfiguring the layout, and managing an army of contractors. The bigger the vision, the more time and expertise your design partner provides.
Here’s a quick way to think about how scope impacts the bottom line:
- Consultation & Styling: The most focused scope. A few hours of expert advice on paint colors, layout, or selecting the perfect designer fabrics from our Atlanta fabric showroom.
- Single Room Design: A complete overhaul of one space, from concept to installation. Imagine a living room fully outfitted with beautiful pieces from Verellen and Wesley Hall.
- Multi-Room or Full Home Furnishings: An extensive project to furnish an entire home. We see this a lot with new builds in Milton or Alpharetta.
- Full-Scale Renovation: The most comprehensive scope. It includes construction management, architectural changes, and all the interior furnishing and styling on top.
Your Taste in Finishes and Furnishings
Your personal style has a direct line to your budget. There's a world of difference between picking off-the-shelf items and investing in handcrafted, heirloom-quality pieces. When you choose a custom-upholstered Lee Industries chair or an elegant Ambella console, you're investing in artistry and longevity. That's reflected in the total cost.
This is where true luxury design shines. It’s not just about the price tag; it’s about accessing a level of quality that lasts for generations. Sourcing these kinds of pieces through a designer or a dedicated design center like Lewis and Sheron gives you access to trade-only collections you won’t find anywhere else.
Your budget is a direct reflection of your priorities. Investing in foundational, high-quality pieces sets the tone for the entire home and provides value that far outlasts fleeting trends.
The Designer’s Experience and Reputation
Just like in any profession, experience comes at a premium. A seasoned designer with a powerful portfolio, a deep network of trusted artisans, and years of experience navigating complex projects in East Cobb or Roswell is going to have a different fee structure than someone just starting out.
You're paying for more than a good eye. You're investing in:
- Proven Expertise: They see problems before they happen and solve them without you ever breaking a sweat.
- Exclusive Access: They have personal relationships with vendors and craftspeople who deliver exceptional results, which is critical for things like custom upholstery and unique finishes.
- Project Management Prowess: It takes serious skill to keep a project with a dozen moving parts on time and on budget.
Your location within metro Atlanta can also play a part. The logistics and vendor networks in Forsyth County might differ from those centered around the design hubs on West Paces Ferry or Collier Rd, subtly influencing the final interior design services cost. Knowing these factors ahead of time empowers you to make smart decisions, ensuring every dollar is invested wisely.
Putting It All Together: Sample Budgets for Atlanta Homes
Okay, let's talk real numbers. The best way to get a feel for what interior design services really cost is to see how a budget breaks down in the real world. This pulls back the curtain and replaces guesswork with a clear financial picture.
To help you visualize the investment, we’ve put together three common project scenarios you might see across North Georgia. Think of these as realistic frameworks, not hard quotes. They’re designed to show how a budget gets divided between designer fees, high-end furniture, and the beautiful details that bring a room to life.
Scenario One: The Marietta Living Room Refresh
Picture a classic living room in Marietta that’s ready for a sophisticated update. The goal isn’t a gut renovation, but a major refresh that elevates the space with timeless, high-quality pieces. The room’s bones are great, but the furnishings feel tired.
Here, the focus is on the foundational items that anchor the room.
- Total Estimated Budget: $45,000 - $65,000+
- Designer Fees (Flat Fee): Roughly $7,000 - $10,000. This covers everything from the initial concept and space planning to sourcing every item, handling purchasing, and managing the final installation.
- Key Furnishings: The centerpiece is a handcrafted Wesley Hall sofa, known for its incredible comfort, paired with two elegant Lee Industries chairs. This part of the budget would land around $25,000 - $35,000.
- Case Goods & Lighting: An Ambella Home sideboard adds storage and serious style, complemented by new table lamps and an updated chandelier. Budget: $8,000 - $12,000.
- Fabrics & Window Treatments: To get that polished, designer look, custom drapery is non-negotiable. Sourcing from our showroom allows for exclusive textiles that tie the room together. Budget: $5,000 - $8,000. To learn more, check out our guide on the cost of custom drapery.
Scenario Two: The East Cobb Primary Suite Redesign
Next, imagine a complete redesign of a primary suite in an East Cobb home. The client is dreaming of a serene, luxurious retreat—a space that feels like a five-star hotel but is deeply personal. This project involves all-new furniture, custom textiles, and a heavy focus on layering rich textures.
The investment here is all about creating a cohesive, multi-functional sanctuary.
- Total Estimated Budget: $60,000 - $90,000+
- Designer Fees (Cost-Plus Model): In this model, a designer might charge a lower upfront design fee, then use a cost-plus structure for furnishings. Fees could range from $10,000 - $15,000, plus a standard markup on their trade purchases.
- Upholstered Bed & Seating: A stunning custom upholstered bed from Verellen immediately sets the tone. A small seating area with a cozy armchair creates a perfect quiet reading nook. Budget: $20,000 - $30,000.
- Case Goods: This covers essential pieces like nightstands, a dresser, and perhaps a small vanity table. Quality craftsmanship ensures these pieces last a lifetime. Budget: $15,000 - $25,000.
- Designer Fabrics & Bedding: This is where you can truly feel the luxury. Think custom blackout drapery, bespoke pillows, and high-end bedding crafted from exclusive designer fabrics. Budget: $10,000 - $15,000.
- Rug, Lighting & Accessories: A hand-knotted rug grounds the space, while new sconces and lamps provide soft, ambient lighting. Budget: $5,000 - $10,000.
Scenario Three: The Milton New Build Furnishings Plan
Our final scenario is a big one: furnishing a new construction home in Milton or Alpharetta. The architecture is finished, but the main living areas—great room, dining room, entryway—are completely empty. The mission is to furnish these core spaces from scratch with a cohesive, high-end design.
This is a comprehensive project, so it naturally requires a larger investment to establish the home's character from the start.
- Total Estimated Budget: $120,000 - $200,000+
- Designer Fees (Percentage of Project Cost): At this scale, a percentage-based fee (usually 20-30%) is common. Based on the total budget, fees would be approximately $24,000 - $60,000.
- Great Room Furnishings: This is the largest line item, covering a sectional sofa, multiple armchairs, a coffee table, side tables, and a media console. Budget: $60,000 - $90,000.
- Dining Room: A statement dining table, comfortable chairs, a beautiful sideboard, and a show-stopping chandelier are the priorities. Budget: $25,000 - $40,000.
- Window Treatments & Rugs: Pulling it all together means investing in cohesive custom drapery and perfectly sized area rugs for both spaces. This is crucial for a unified design. Budget: $15,000 - $25,000.
As you can see, a budget can be shaped to fit the project's unique goals, whether you’re in Buckhead or Forsyth County. It all comes down to scope, quality, and the level of customization you're looking for.
Understanding What Your Designer's Fee Includes
When you hire an interior designer, you're not just paying for a good eye. You're bringing on a project manager, creative problem-solver, and procurement specialist all rolled into one. Knowing what their fee covers—and what it doesn't—is the secret to a smooth, transparent project.
The designer’s fee is the architectural blueprint for your home. It’s the foundational plan, the creative vision, and the technical expertise that ensures everything comes together. You're not just buying a shopping list; you're buying a strategy and peace of mind.
It’s an investment more people are making. The global interior design market was valued at over $92 billion recently and is forecasted to soar past $130 billion by 2030. That's a powerful indicator that homeowners see the value in professional expertise. You can dive deeper in this global market report.
What’s Typically in the Box
So, what are you actually paying for? While every designer works a bit differently, most standard design fees cover the heavy lifting at the front end of a project.
These core services almost always include:
- Initial Consultation & Project Assessment: The kick-off meeting where the designer digs deep to understand you, your lifestyle, and your vision.
- Concept Development & Mood Boards: Your ideas are translated into a tangible visual direction—a cohesive plan with color palettes, textures, and a defined aesthetic.
- Space Planning & Furniture Layouts: This is where technical skill comes in. Your designer creates detailed floor plans to ensure every piece fits perfectly and the room has a natural flow.
- Sourcing & Selection: The time-consuming work of finding the perfect furniture, lighting, rugs, and accessories from a curated network of vendors and showrooms.
The A La Carte Menu: Common Add-Ons
Beyond the initial creative and planning phases, many of the project's hands-on logistical tasks are often billed separately. These are the services that bring the plan to life.
Expect to see these as separate line items or additional services:
- Procurement & Order Management: The complex process of purchasing, tracking, and coordinating the delivery of dozens (or hundreds) of individual items.
- Contractor & Tradesperson Management: Acting as the main point of contact for painters, electricians, and installers to ensure the design is executed as planned.
- Installation & Styling: The final, magical step. The designer oversees the "white glove" delivery of all furnishings, places every piece, and styles the room down to the last accessory.
The Lewis and Sheron Advantage
At Lewis and Sheron, we wanted to bridge the gap. We believe expert guidance shouldn't always require a high-cost, formal contract. That's why we offer complimentary in-house design services to every client who visits our Buckhead showroom.
Think of our designers as your personal guides to the world of luxury textiles and custom furnishings. They’re here to help you navigate our vast collection, from selecting the perfect designer fabrics for custom upholstery to coordinating a room full of timeless pieces from Verellen, Wesley Hall, or Lee Industries.
This is a game-changer for homeowners in Atlanta, Roswell, and Alpharetta. You get direct access to professional expertise without the commitment of a full-service design agreement. It’s the perfect way to bring your vision to life with skill and confidence. For a closer look at what this first step involves, check out our guide on what an interior design consultation includes.
4 Smart Ways to Maximize Your High-End Design Budget
Let’s be clear: a high-end budget isn’t about spending endlessly. It's about spending wisely. Getting the most out of your investment means making intentional choices that amplify both the beauty and the long-term value of a home.
This isn't about cutting corners—it’s about sharpening your focus. It’s knowing where to invest deeply and where to be resourceful, ensuring every dollar contributes to a space that feels timeless, functional, and deeply personal.
1. Phase Your Project Intelligently
A beautifully designed home doesn't have to materialize overnight. In fact, some of the best ones don't. Phasing a project is a brilliant strategy that lets you secure foundational, heirloom-quality pieces first without compromising.
Start with the non-negotiables. This could be the handcrafted Wesley Hall sofa that will anchor your living room for years or the perfect Verellen dining table destined for decades of family memories. This approach gives you breathing room to live in the space, understand its rhythms, and make more thoughtful decisions later.
2. Preserve Quality with Custom Upholstery
Have a vintage armchair with an incredible frame but tired, dated fabric? Don’t discard it. One of the smartest moves you can make is to bring it back to life with custom upholstery. Reupholstering a cherished piece is an incredible way to preserve high-quality craftsmanship while updating its style.
It’s a sustainable choice that honors the original maker. You can give an old favorite a second act with exclusive designer fabrics from our Atlanta fabric showroom, creating something truly one-of-a-kind. Wondering what that project entails? Explore our guide to reupholstery costs and factors.
3. Unlock Exclusive Access with Our Trade Program
For design professionals working in Atlanta and North Georgia, our Lewis and Sheron Trade Program is an indispensable tool. We designed it to give you a competitive edge, providing exclusive access and preferred pricing on our entire collection of luxury furniture and fine fabrics.
Our Trade Program isn’t just about discounts. It’s a partnership. We provide dedicated support to help you source the perfect pieces for your clients, from Lee Industries chairs to Ambella furniture.
This program is a key strategy for making your clients' budgets go further while still delivering the exceptional, to-the-trade quality they expect. It’s one of the secrets behind the most beautifully appointed homes in Roswell, Marietta, and beyond.
4. Start with a Dose of Expert Guidance
If you want to ensure every dollar is spent wisely, start with a clear, expert-led plan. Our complimentary in-house design consultations at our Buckhead showroom are the perfect first step. You can sit down with one of our experienced designers to talk through your vision, explore our collections, and get professional guidance tailored to your project.
Think of it as a strategic planning session. We'll help you define your priorities and build a cohesive plan from the ground up, making sure your investment aligns perfectly with your goals from day one. It’s the ultimate way to maximize your budget and kick off your project with total confidence.
Common Questions About Interior Design Costs
It's natural to have questions when you're investing in your home's design. We get these all the time in our Buckhead showroom from both homeowners and designers, so let's clear up a few common ones.
Is Custom Furniture More Expensive Through a Designer?
Not always, and that surprises a lot of people. Think about a high-end, custom piece from a maker like Verellen—it's an investment. But here's the inside scoop: designers get access to exclusive, trade-only pricing that isn't available to the public.
While the designer’s fee or markup covers their expertise and management, the final cost often ends up similar to what you’d pay for a high-end retail piece. The huge difference? You're getting something with far better quality that's made just for you—a piece tailored perfectly to your space that you can't just pull off a regular showroom floor.
How Much Should I Budget for Furniture Separately?
Here’s a good rule of thumb: your furnishings will almost always be the biggest chunk of your total project investment. Of course, the actual number swings dramatically depending on your taste, the room's size, and the quality you're after.
For a luxury project here in Atlanta, it's not uncommon for a single room's furniture budget to land anywhere from $20,000 to $100,000+. The key is to have this conversation with your designer right at the beginning to make sure your vision and your budget are on the same page.
Can I Hire a Designer for Small Tasks Like Fabric Selection?
Absolutely. Many designers are flexible and offer services by the hour. This is a fantastic option if you just need a professional eye on a few key decisions without signing up for a massive project.
It’s smart to understand how different services are priced to avoid surprises. For example, learning how professionals break down their fees, as detailed in guides on junk removal pricing, helps you ask the right questions about what's included and what's not.
This is exactly why our complimentary in-house design services at Lewis and Sheron are such a great resource. You can get expert guidance while you browse our Atlanta fabric showroom, giving you the confidence that even the smallest choices are the right ones.
Ready to turn your vision into a beautifully designed reality? The journey begins at Lewis and Sheron Textiles. Visit our Buckhead showroom to explore Atlanta’s finest collection of luxury furniture and designer fabrics. Discover enduring style with us.