Studio B Interiors
Studio B Interiors
info@studiobint.com@_studio.b.interiors
Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What does an interior designer cost in Maryland?

Interior design fees vary widely based on the scope of the project, the level of service, and the designer's experience. In the Maryland and DMV area, full-service design typically involves a combination of a flat design fee (for the creative work, sourcing, and planning) and a furnishings budget. Design fees can range from a few thousand dollars for a single room to tens of thousands for whole-home renovations. We always provide a clear, customized proposal after our initial consultation so you know exactly what to expect before we begin.

How do designer fee structures work?

Designers generally use one of three models: flat fee, hourly, or cost-plus. With a flat fee, you pay a set amount for the complete design of your space — covering the time to measure, conceptualize, source, and present the final plan — which offers predictability. Hourly billing suits smaller or open-ended engagements. Cost-plus means the designer purchases furnishings at trade pricing and adds an agreed percentage. Every studio structures this differently, so ask for the model in writing. Studio B Interiors outlines its exact fee structure in a customized written proposal after the initial consultation, before any work begins.

What is the difference between an interior designer and a decorator?

While both focus on the aesthetics of a space, interior designers are trained to handle structural and spatial planning. A designer can move walls, rethink floor plans, manage comprehensive kitchen and bath renovations, and collaborate closely with architects and contractors on new builds or major remodels. Decorators typically focus on the surface level—furnishings, paint, fabrics, and styling—without altering the physical layout or structure of the home.

How long does a full-home project take?

The timeline for a full-home project depends on the scope of work and the construction schedule. A full-service furnishing project (without major construction) typically takes 4-6 months from the initial consultation to the final installation. If the project involves significant renovation or new construction, the timeline extends, often taking 9-18 months or more. We establish a realistic timeline during the planning phase and manage the process closely to keep things moving forward.

When should I hire a designer relative to a contractor?

Ideally, you should hire an interior designer before or at the same time as you hire an architect or contractor. Bringing a designer in early ensures that the spatial planning, millwork, electrical layouts, and hard finishes are cohesively planned from the ground up. This collaborative approach minimizes costly changes during construction and ensures the final result seamlessly aligns with your vision.

What does 'full service' interior design include?

Full-service interior design is a comprehensive, turn-key approach. It means we handle every detail from the initial concept to the final styling. This includes space planning, sourcing all furnishings and materials, producing detailed construction documents, procuring items, managing trades, tracking orders, and overseeing the final installation. You simply approve the designs and let us handle the execution, culminating in a fully finished, magazine-ready space.