How Much Do Interior Designers Make?

When you think about interior designers, professionals who plan and execute functional, beautiful indoor spaces using layout, color, lighting, and materials. Also known as interior decorators, they don’t just pick paint colors—they manage budgets, coordinate contractors, and solve spatial problems. But here’s the real question: how much do interior designers make? It’s not a one-size-fits-all number. In the UK, earnings vary wildly depending on experience, location, and whether you work for a firm or run your own business.

Entry-level designers might start around £20,000 to £25,000 a year, especially if they’re working under senior designers in London or major cities. But after five to seven years, with a solid portfolio and repeat clients, many jump to £35,000–£50,000. Top-tier freelancers who specialize in high-end homes or luxury offices can easily hit £60,000–£80,000—or more. It’s not magic. It’s about building trust, delivering results, and knowing how to price your time right. Some designers charge hourly, others take a percentage of the project budget, and a growing number offer fixed packages. The key is understanding what clients are willing to pay for real expertise, not just aesthetics.

Location matters a lot. A designer in Manchester might earn less than one in London, but their living costs are lower. Specializing helps too. Those who focus on sustainable construction, building practices that reduce environmental impact through eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient layouts or loft conversions, transforming unused attic spaces into functional living areas often command higher fees because they solve specific, high-value problems. Clients aren’t just paying for a pretty room—they’re paying for peace of mind, time saved, and avoiding costly mistakes.

And let’s not forget the hidden side: many designers earn extra through product commissions, furniture partnerships, or even selling their own designs. It’s not just about the design fee—it’s about the whole ecosystem around it. If you’re curious about what’s possible in this field, the posts below show real examples of what designers actually work on—from fixing awkward living rooms to choosing the right curtains for a cozy vibe. These aren’t theoretical ideas. They’re the daily tasks that build careers—and incomes—over time.