Before I jet off on my break (did I mention I was going on holiday?!) it’s been a whirlwind few weeks making sure every possible eventuality is covered before I go. Sleepless nights, hours behind my desk, teams’ calls, site visits, and endless handover briefs, all to make sure that while I’m away, everything still runs smoothly.

Somewhere in the middle of the exhaustion, I had a moment of clarity: this is why I add real value to my clients. Because I care 100% about the delivery of the service, and I don’t rest until I know things are on track.

But it also reminded me of something else…this is exactly why I have to value myself, too. And it’s why interior design isn’t, and can’t be “cheap.”

Here’s why…

1. Even smaller projects require a lot of time and attention

Every project, big or small, comes with site visits, sourcing, design revisions, coordination with trades, and ongoing communication. The hours add up quickly, which is why the time and expertise involved need to be reflected in the fee.

2. Design comes with real-world costs

Furniture, materials, trades, and logistics all add up. It’s easy to underestimate the true cost of building or renovating, and part of a designer’s job is helping clients navigate these realities, so the project works as envisioned.

3. Larger projects make the value clearer

When the budget allows for a full renovation or significant investment in furniture and materials, the designer’s fee becomes a smaller proportion of the overall spend. This makes it feel more proportional to the transformation and oversight provided, and ensures the result is truly exceptional.

4. The value is in expertise and peace of mind

Clients hire a designer not to save ££, but to protect their investment, avoid costly mistakes, and make the process as smooth as possible. They’re paying for their expertise, leadership, their network of trusted tradespeople and the confidence that the project will be delivered well, from start to finish.

So, I’ll just say it out loud…Interior design IS a luxury service, its personal, aesthetic, time saving and transformative. It’s not frivolous, it’s about getting things right, doing them beautifully, and making sure every detail works for you.

For designers, the only sustainable way to run a studio is to work with clients who have the budget to realise a vision properly. For clients, it means understanding that the fee isn’t an expense, it’s an investment in doing it right the first time.

And for me? It’s about living what I do. Every project I take on, every detail I obsess over, every late-night call or site visit, it’s all part of creating spaces that truly work, feel personal, and make life better for the people living in them. 

That’s why I care so much, and why I value the work I do.

If you’re planning a renovation and want it done properly, with every detail thought through and nothing left to chance, let’s chat. I help clients turn their homes into spaces that work beautifully for how they live.