Bringing an interior designer on board early means every choice—from layout to lighting—is made thoughtfully and with expert guidance. Someone will have to make those decisions anyway, and without experience, it’s easy to run into costly mistakes simply because you don’t know what you don’t know. A good designer helps you avoid those pitfalls, keeping your project beautiful, functional, and on budget from day one. It’s not a luxury—it’s smart planning that makes the whole process smoother and the results so much better.
The cost and complexity of integrating interior design into a project increases exponentially as the construction process progresses. Engaging an interior designer early ensures design cohesion, efficiency, and cost control.
The Cost of Waiting to Hire an Interior Designer
| Phase | When Designer Is Hired | Estimated Cost Multiplier | Explanation |
| 1. Concept Phase | From the very beginning, during vision and layout planning | Baseline (1×) | Design and architecture evolve together — maximum efficiency, minimal change orders. |
| 2. Post-Architecture Phase | After architectural drawings are complete | +25–35% | Layouts often need revisions to integrate design intent, lighting, and finishes properly. |
| 3. Post-Permit Phase | Once construction documents are approved and permitted | +50–60% | Major systems are locked in; changes require revisions and possible resubmissions. |
| 4. Rough Construction Phase | During framing, electrical, or plumbing rough-ins | +75–100% | Adjusting layouts or lighting now means physical rework and delays. |
| 5. Finishes Phase | When materials, cabinetry, and fixtures are being installed | +150–200% | Selections become reactive rather than strategic; options are limited by prior decisions. |
| 6. Post-Construction Phase | After completion or near move-in | +300% or more | Requires costly retrofits or aesthetic band-aids instead of integrated design solutions. |
Don’t wait until it’s too late to bring in a design professional. Early collaboration with an interior designer can save you time, money, and frustration — and elevate your project from good to exceptional.
Reach out to Sebastian Eilert Architecture today to discuss your vision and discover how thoughtful design can transform your space.
📩 Email: sebastian@sebastianeilert.com
🌐 Website: www.sebastianeilert.com
Miami Green Homes 
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