Decide what kind of firm you need
- Design studio: designs, then you hire contractors. Most creative control, most coordination work for you.
- Design and build firm: designs and executes with one team. One point of accountability. This is how SpaceCraft works.
- Modular company: factory-made kitchens and wardrobes from a catalogue. Fast, but limited customisation.
- Luxury and architect-led studios: for large homes where design is bespoke. See luxury interior design.
What to check before you shortlist
- Completed projects you can visit, not only renders.
- Itemised quotations with board grade, hardware brand and finish named. Our plywood guide explains what to look for.
- A measured survey before pricing, so the quote is not revised on day four.
- A dated schedule and a single project manager.
- Warranty terms in writing for carpentry, hardware and waterproofing.
Questions to ask
- Who will be on site every day, and who do I call?
- Which items are made in your workshop and which are outsourced?
- What exactly is excluded from the quotation?
- How are design changes after sign-off priced?
- How do you handle society rules and working hours?
How pricing works
Some designers charge a design fee and execute at cost-plus, some charge a percentage, and design and build firms usually include design in the execution price. Our cost guide explains each model and typical ranges for 1BHK to 3BHK homes.
Red flags
- A firm price without a site visit.
- Quotations that say "plywood" or "branded hardware" without naming the grade or brand.
- Large advance payments not linked to milestones.
- No completed projects you can see in person.
Compare like with like
Put two or three itemised quotations side by side, line by line. The cheapest total often hides a thinner carcass or missing items. Ours is free after a measured site visit, with no obligation.