"How much does interior design cost?" is a question with no single-figure answer, because "interior design" can mean a simple colour mood board, or a complete construction package with ceiling, lighting and joinery drawings, material schedules and supervision of execution. The difference between two quotes can be large, but the difference in the final result is larger. This guide explains the factors that set interior design cost in Riyadh, the deliverables to ask about, how to compare quotes fairly, and where the project budget actually goes.
The Main Pricing Factors
- Area: many offices price per square metre or per space.
- Scope of work: concept and colours only, or detailed drawings for ceilings, floors, lighting and joinery?
- Project type: residential, office, or commercial such as restaurants and showrooms, each with different requirements.
- 3D design: the number of renders and virtual tours. Read: Render or virtual tour?.
- Number of revisions included.
- Material and quantity schedules.
- Supervision of execution if included.
Common Service Levels
| Level | What it usually includes | Suits |
|---|---|---|
| Consultation and concept | Mood board, colours, preliminary layout | Those doing it themselves or renovating partially |
| 3D design | The above + realistic renders of the spaces | Those who want to see the result before building |
| Full construction package | The above + detailed drawings and material schedules | Projects to be built by a contractor |
| Design with supervision | The above + supervision visits | Those who want to ensure execution matches |
Deliverables to Ask About
| Deliverable | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Furniture layout plan | The basis for everything after it |
| Ceiling and lighting plan | Prevents improvisation on site |
| Floor and wall plan | Sets materials and layout |
| Joinery details | The most expensive items in execution |
| Electrical and switch plan | Prevents breaking out after finishing |
| Materials schedule | Makes comparing build quotes easier |
How to Compare Quotes Fairly
- Compare deliverables, not just price; a cheap quote without detailed drawings may cost you more in execution.
- Ask about extra revisions and their cost.
- Ask for completed project examples, not just 3D images.
- Confirm the timeline for each stage.
- Ask whether the quote includes coordination with MEP works.
Where Does the Project Budget Actually Go?
Design cost is usually a small part compared with the cost of execution, materials and furniture. Good design saves more in execution than it costs, because it prevents waste and improvised decisions on site. Read: Design only or design and build?.
Tips for Controlling the Budget
- Set the execution budget before design so the office designs within it.
- Focus spending on the most-used spaces.
- Choose locally available materials to reduce delays.
- Fix the design before execution and avoid changes on site.
- For kitchens and offices read: Kitchen design and Office design.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a fixed price per square metre?
No, it varies by scope of work, deliverables and office.
Can I design just one room?
Yes, many offices accept partial projects.
Does the cost include buying furniture?
Usually not, unless the contract provides for supply.
How long does interior design take?
It depends on the area and the number of revision rounds; a full construction package takes longer than a concept.
Is 3D design necessary?
It is not mandatory, but it reveals mistakes and aligns expectations before spending on execution. Read: 3D design before construction.
How Abak Engineering Consultancy Helps
Abak is an accredited engineering office in Riyadh offering interior design quotes with clear deliverables, from concept and 3D design to a full construction package and supervision, within your budget. Learn about our interior design services, or Details of how we can help are on our HVAC System Design service page. contact us.
Regulatory information is based on the Balady platform and the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing, and procedures may be updated by the competent authority. Last reviewed: October 2026.