How to choose an interior design studio
To choose an interior design studio, first decide whether you need an architect for structural or permit work, or an interior designer for layout, finishes and furniture. Then shortlist studios with finished projects like yours, compare how they charge and what each stage includes, and meet the person who will lead your project.
Do you need an architect or an interior designer?
The line is structure and permits. Architects design buildings and structural changes — new openings, extensions, façades — and in most countries are licensed to sign the drawings a permit requires. Interior designers work inside the existing shell: layout, finishes, joinery, lighting and furniture.
For most apartment and office projects an interior designer is enough. When you are unsure, choose a studio that offers both, so the question can be answered after a site visit rather than before.
How should you read a studio’s portfolio?
- Look for finished photographs, not only renders. Renders show intent; photographs show what was actually built.
- Find projects like yours in type (home, office, restaurant) and size.
- Check range. Do all projects look the same, or does each respond to its client and place? Both are valid — but you should know which you are hiring.
- Read the testimonials for how the studio handled the process, not only the result.
How do interior design studios charge?
| Model | How it works | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed package | Set price per tier, clear list of deliverables | Apartments, single rooms, predictable scope |
| Per square metre | Fee scales with floor area | Homes and offices of known size |
| Percentage of works | Fee is a share of the construction budget | Large renovations, hospitality, new builds |
| Hourly / single service | Consultation, 3D visualisation, a furniture piece | Testing a studio before a full project |
Some studios, such as Gosis Design in Sofia, publish tiered packages alongside single services, which lets you start with a consultation or a visualisation before committing to a full design.
What does the design process look like?
- Brief and site visit — measurements, needs, budget, constraints.
- Concept — layout options, a material and colour palette, often mood boards or first 3D views.
- Detailed design — drawings and specifications that contractors can price and build from.
- Sourcing — furniture, lighting and materials; custom pieces drawn and made.
- Site supervision — checking the works match the drawings, resolving surprises.
What should you ask an interior design studio?
- Who will lead my project, and how often will we meet?
- Which stages does your fee include — and which cost extra?
- Do you supervise the works, or hand over drawings?
- Do you work with contractors you recommend, or with mine?
- Can I see a finished project similar to mine?