Decoration Costs

DwnTwn- depends on what the decorater or interior designer does.

If he/she does the drawings and specs then he/she may get a set amount for the drawing (i'm talking about renovation of a room(s)) plus a percentage of the construction fees- 20-30% usually- usually the arch designer will make sure that the construction is being built according to the drawings in this case, although the GC is in charge of the contractors.

If its just picking out the furnishings, decor, etc for the room(s) then its typically 25-35% of the price of the purchases- however given that they typically get a discount to the trade (usually 30-40%) it's a wash for you as the client, in terms of what you need to spend.

Hourly charging can occur too - some charge for consultations usually $100- $150 per hour and drafting time usually $50-$100 per hour.

Hope that helps.

And if you are looking for one I can reccomend Design by Francois, LLC
www.francoistenenbaum.com
designbyfrancois@yahoo.com

Dwn,

To answer your question of how much you should expect to pay for furnishings:

% on purchasing. Some charge 10% some charge 30% that could before or after their discounts.

If you need any recommendations please let me know.

it is competitive now you can get a proposal for a flat fee
it used to be 150hr + 20-35% percent on purchases. Its changing cause a lots of vendors will give public the same or close discount as to the trade just to close the sale.

Most higher end stores will provide interior design services as well, with a variety of levels and minimum purchase amounts. If you have a particular style you know you like (e.g. Roche Bobois, Ligne Roset, Desiron...etc.), go to the store and talk to them about what they offer. We purchased a couch and coffee table from Roche Bobois and our salesperson/design consultant helped us fill in the blanks with everything else. This is good if you like doing the legwork but need suggestions, guidance and approval of things before buying, but not a full service option like the ones discussed above.

DwnTwn - If you're asking what level of exepnditure is commensurate with a $200-$300/ft renovation the answer is whatever suits your taste. Some people go spare - others furnish every square inch. Do you like high end modern, or would Crate and Barrel's version do(and they've done good versions of the dark wood light upholstery which was originally high end Holly Hunt). Do you like real antiques/vintage or will reproductions satisfy you? Do you insist on custom down-filled sofas in expensive fabrics or will more standard upholstery work for you.

What you spend is really up to you. Don't let a "decorator" talk you into anything which doesn't suit your taste, your lifestyle and YOUR budget.

primer05, if you can recommend an interior decorator for similar abt in original post, i would be very appreciative..thanks

BMF,

It depends on your needs. I work with many different designers. It might be easier to call me at 646-436-3942 to discuss.