Interior Design Fee Types

There are a number of methods of charging fees for residential interior designers and decorators. Consultants and their clients are free to negotiate on any basis whatsoever. The most common methods are outlined in this practice note.

This Practice Note covers:

• Hourly Fees

• Percentage Fee

• Lump Sum or Fixed Fee

• Cost Plus Percentage Fees

• Retail

• Commissions

• Disbursements

• Overtime

• Changes in Instructions

• Communication

• Goods and Services Tax

• Specialist Consultant

• Designer’s Fee Agreement for Services and Conditions of Engagement

About the DIA's Practice Notes

The DIA Practice Notes give designers the fundamentals to take control of their careers and flourish at work. As part of the major refresh of all DIA resources, the refreshed notes provide more relevant guidance for contemporary workplaces. They are available free for all designers who are members of the DIA.

The Practice Notes cover topics such as conditions of engagement, confidentiality agreements, preparing for staff reviews, understanding intellectual property and how to set fees for design services.

This Practice Note is part of the Running an Office series. The full series is soon to be released:

1. Designers in Australia

2. Working as a Designer

3. Working with Clients

4. Running an Office

5. Buying Design Services