Cost
Interior designer fees in Istanbul (2026): how interior design services are priced
· 2 min read · SG Concept Architecture
There is no single answer to "How much does an interior designer charge?", because two quotes may not describe the same job. One may cover only a layout plan, while the other takes on every stage from concept to turnkey. In this article we explain plainly how the price is formed.
How are interior design fees calculated?
- Design fee per square metre: the most common method for homes and offices. The unit price usually falls as the area grows.
- Percentage of the build budget: often used when design and build come from the same team. The fee changes as the budget changes, so a written scope matters.
- Fixed fee: suitable for clearly bounded work such as a single room, a kitchen or a concept study.
- Hourly or daily consultancy: preferred for material selection, colour advice or a second look at an existing project.
In Türkiye, the Chamber of Interior Architects (TMMOB İçmimarlar Odası) publishes a minimum fee schedule for interior design services every year. It is not a ceiling but a professional floor, and a good reference for judging whether quotes are reasonable.
What determines the price?
- Size of the space and number of rooms
- Scope: concept, construction drawings, detail drawings, quantity take-off, site supervision
- Number of photorealistic 3D visualisations
- Custom furniture and joinery details
- Depth of renovation: a fresh coat of paint, or new services and floors
- Project duration and how often the site is visited
Questions to ask when getting a quote
- Which drawings and how many 3D images are included?
- Are revisions included, and how many rounds?
- Is there site supervision during the build?
- Is there a commission on materials and furniture, or are net prices passed on?
- Which stages is the payment plan tied to?
Does hiring an interior designer increase the budget?
In the short term it looks like an extra cost; but rework on site, wrongly measured cabinets and lighting added later often cost more than the fee. A good project reduces surprises on site by having decisions made on screen.
“Changing on screen is always cheaper than changing on site.”
SG Concept is based in Göktürk and provides design-only or turnkey services for homes, villas and commercial projects across Istanbul. We define the scope together and prepare a written quote.
Frequently asked questions
Are interior design fees calculated per square metre?
For most homes and offices, yes. A percentage of the build budget, or a fixed fee for clearly defined work, are also used.
Can I get only the drawings and have the build done myself?
Yes. You can take the construction and detail drawings and proceed with your own contractor. We still recommend site checks at a few critical stages.
Is there an official minimum interior design fee in Türkiye?
The Chamber of Interior Architects (TMMOB İçmimarlar Odası) publishes a minimum fee schedule every year. It can be used as a reference when assessing quotes.
Is 3D visualisation included in the fee?
It varies from studio to studio. Make sure the quote states in writing how many images and how many revision rounds are included.
From the Journal
All articles →- Cost
· 2 min read
Turnkey home and villa renovation in Istanbul: what drives the cost in 2026?
Two renovations of the same size can differ tenfold in price. The items that make up the budget, common mistakes and how to set a realistic budget.
- Guide
· 3 min read
Bathroom renovation guide: the right order, from waterproofing to fixtures
The most expensive mistake in a bathroom renovation is made where you cannot see it. Waterproofing, falls, plumbing, ventilation and fixtures, in the right order.
- Guide
· 3 min read
Small apartment interior design: 9 ways to make a small space feel larger
In one- and two-bedroom apartments you cannot add square metres, but you can enlarge the perception of space. Layout, storage, colour, light and multi-purpose furniture.