Get matched with top residential design pros in El Centro, CA

A floor plan is a less detailed illustration showing a building or room's layout from above, including elements like windows, doors, walls, and fixtures. It offers a simplified view for homeowners. In contrast, a blueprint is a more detailed, to-scale architectural drawing that includes all parts of the building plans, such as structural elements, construction details, and utility schematics. While a floor plan can be a type of view within a blueprint, the complete blueprint contains all the necessary details to turn the plan into a reality.

On average, the cost to hire an interior designer or decorator is approximately $8,200. However, the total price can range widely from $200 for a simple consultation to $65,000 for a comprehensive whole-home design project. Most residential designers charge an hourly rate, typically between $50 and $200 per hour, though this can increase to $500 per hour in high-demand areas.

Several factors influence the final cost, including the size of your home, your location, the quality of decor, and the scope of services required. The price will be higher if services include not just consultation but also implementation, material purchasing, home staging, or digital design mock-ups. It's important to note that these cost estimates generally cover the designer's service fees and do not include the price of materials, furniture, or decor, which can be a significant additional expense.

A certified kitchen designer (or CKD) is a certification given by the National Kitchen and Bath Association. These designers have completed the necessary hours of training and education to specialize in kitchens, and therefore understand the wide variety of project needs (like plumbing, electrical, appliances, and more). Most pros will make their certifications known on their website, but you can also ask during your search for a local kitchen designer.

The average size of a home office starts at around 70 square feet for those who just need a place to put a desk, a filing cabinet, and perhaps some shelving units to keep important documents. For those with storage needs or office furniture for guests, an average size is more like 150 square feet, or the size of a large bedroom.