Designing an entire house is a dream project for many homeowners — but it also comes with many questions. One of the most common concerns is: How much does it actually cost to interior design a whole house?

The answer depends on a range of factors, including the size of the home, the scope of work, the designer’s experience, and the finishes and furnishings selected. In high-demand areas like Palm Desert, CA, where luxury homes and desert-inspired modern designs are popular, the investment can vary widely. Working with the best Interior Designer in California ensures not only cost transparency but also quality results that elevate a property’s value.

Understanding the Cost of Whole-House Interior Design

Interior design costs are not one-size-fits-all. They typically fall into two categories:

1. Design Fees – Payment for the designer’s creative concepts, drawings, and project management.

2. Procurement & Furnishings – Costs of furniture, materials, lighting, art, and accessories.

Designers may charge hourly rates, flat fees, or a percentage of the project cost.

• Hourly Rates: $100 – $500 per hour depending on experience and reputation.

• Flat Fees: $5,000 – $50,000+ depending on home size.

• Percentage of Total Project: 10% – 30% of the construction or furnishing budget.

Key Factors Affecting Whole-House Design Costs

1. Size of the Home

A 1,500 sq. ft. home will naturally cost less to design than a 6,000 sq. ft. luxury property in Palm Desert. Larger homes require more furniture, custom work, and project hours.

2. Scope of Work

Is the project a full renovation with structural changes, or purely decorative? A full-service design (including space planning, custom cabinetry, and lighting design) will cost more than styling with off-the-shelf furniture.

3. Design Style

Minimalist designs may cost less because they require fewer furnishings, while luxury and bespoke designs involve premium materials, artisans, and custom pieces.

4. Location

Homes in Palm Desert, CA often command higher design fees due to their prestige and the demand for unique, resort-like interiors.

5. Designer’s Reputation

Hiring the best Interior Designer in California will likely come with premium pricing, but the return is long-lasting value, functionality, and unmatched aesthetics.

Average Costs by Room

• Living Room: $10,000 – $50,000 (furniture, art, lighting, rugs, accessories).

• Kitchen: $20,000 – $75,000 (custom cabinetry, appliances, stone countertops, lighting).

• Bedroom: $5,000 – $25,000 (bed, wardrobes, soft furnishings, lighting).

• Bathrooms: $10,000 – $40,000 (fixtures, tiles, custom vanities, lighting).

• Outdoor Spaces: $15,000 – $50,000 (landscape furniture, lighting, poolside styling).

Designing an entire house can range from $50,000 for modest projects to $250,000+ for high-end luxury homes.

Hidden Costs to Consider

1. Custom Furniture – Bespoke pieces often cost more than retail.

2. Import Duties & Shipping – For unique international décor.

3. Project Management – Overseeing contractors and installations.

4. Revisions – Multiple design adjustments may increase fees.

5. Luxury Finishes – Stone, wood, and artisanal work raise budgets.

The Value of Hiring a Professional Designer

While DIY decorating may save money upfront, it rarely achieves the same level of refinement. Hiring a professional brings:

• Cohesion – A unified design across the whole house.

• Functionality – Optimized layouts and practical solutions.

• Sourcing – Access to trade-only furniture and finishes.

• Project Management – Reduced stress, fewer mistakes.

• Long-Term Value – Increased home resale value.

This is why working with an Interior Designer in California is an investment rather than an expense.

Cost-Saving Tips for Whole-House Design

• Prioritize high-traffic rooms (kitchen, living room, master bedroom).

• Use a mix of custom and retail furniture.

• Repurpose or refresh existing furniture with new finishes.

• Plan in phases rather than tackling the whole house at once.

• Be clear about your budget with your designer upfront.

Palm Desert Homes: A Unique Market

Palm Desert homes often combine desert-modern architecture, indoor-outdoor living, and luxurious amenities. Designers here must balance aesthetics with climate considerations, like heat-resistant materials, shaded outdoor furniture, and energy-efficient layouts.

Investing in design not only improves quality of life but also boosts property values in this desirable California market.

10 FAQs About Whole-House Interior Design Costs

1. How much does it cost to design an entire house?
Anywhere from $50,000 to $250,000+, depending on size, scope, and finishes.

2. Do designers charge by the hour or project?
Both. Many use hourly rates, flat fees, or percentages of the project.

3. What’s the most expensive room to design?
Kitchens and bathrooms due to appliances, plumbing, and custom cabinetry.

4. Is interior design worth the cost?
Yes — it adds functionality, beauty, and increases property value.

5. Can I design my house in phases?
Absolutely. Many homeowners prioritize key rooms and finish others later.

6. What’s the difference between an interior decorator and a designer?
Designers handle both aesthetics and structural/functional planning, while decorators focus on styling.

7. Can I save money by mixing DIY and professional design?
Yes, but core elements like space planning and custom finishes benefit from professionals.

8. Do Palm Desert homes cost more to design?
Yes, because of luxury finishes, open layouts, and the area’s demand for high-end interiors.

9. Does hiring the best Interior Designer in California cost more?
Yes, but the expertise ensures long-lasting value, quality, and beauty.

10. How do I budget for whole-house design?
Set aside 10–20% of your home’s value for full-service design projects.