Home Interior Design Cost Explained: How It Is Calculated

When planning your home interiors, the most common question is not “How much will it cost?” but rather “How is the cost calculated?”

At Archosphere, we believe transparency builds trust. Instead of fixed numbers, interior design budgeting is calculated based on scope, size, materials, and customisation level.

Let’s understand how the calculation actually works.

1. Step One: Understanding Scope of Work

Interior cost calculation always begins with scope.

Ask yourself:

• Are you designing only the kitchen?

• Only wardrobes?

• Or full home interiors?

• Are false ceilings included?

• Is electrical work part of the project?

• Are bathrooms being renovated?

The more spaces and elements included, the higher the total cost.

Simply put:
More work scope = More materials + More labour + More time

2. Step Two: Apartment Size & Layout

Size directly impacts calculation.

Cost is influenced by:

• Number of bedrooms

• Size of kitchen

• Living & dining area dimensions

• Number of bathrooms

• Balcony or utility areas

Larger homes require:

• More plywood

• More laminate

• More hardware

• More labour hours

This is why a 3BHK costs more than a 1BHK — not just because of area, but because of number of units required.

3. Step Three: Number of Interior Units

Interior design is calculated unit-wise.

Each of these is considered a unit:

• Kitchen cabinets (base + wall units)

• Tall units

• Wardrobes

• TV units

• Crockery units

• Study tables

• Vanity units

More units = Higher overall project cost.

For example:

• A simple wardrobe costs less than a wardrobe with lofts, drawers, mirrors, and internal organisers.

• A basic kitchen costs less than one with pullouts, tall pantry units, and corner mechanisms.

4. Step Four: Material Selection

Material choice plays a major role in calculation.

Wood & Core Materials

• Commercial plywood

• BWP plywood

• MDF

• HDHMR

Each has a different durability and price point.

Shutter Finishes

• Laminate

• Acrylic

• Membrane

• PU paint

Premium finishes increase material and labour costs.

Hardware

• Hinges

• Channels

• Soft-close mechanisms

• Drawer systems

• Lift-up fittings

Better hardware = Longer life + Higher cost.

5. Step Five: Design Complexity

Cost increases when:

• There are curved designs

• Multi-level false ceilings are used

• Custom lighting layouts are added

• Fluted panels or wall panelling is included

• Special textures or wall finishes are selected

Simple straight-line designs are always more economical than intricate custom designs.

6. Step Six: Labour & Execution Charges

Interior design is not only materials — skilled labour plays a huge role.

Cost depends on:

• Carpenter charges

• Electrician work

• Painter charges

• POP/false ceiling installation

• Tile laying work

Labour rates vary city to city.

7. Step Seven: Location Factor

City impacts calculation because of:

• Labour availability

• Transport costs

• Local material sourcing

• Climate-specific materials

For example:

• Coastal cities may require moisture-resistant plywood.

• Compact metro apartments may need more customised storage.

8. Step Eight: Customisation Level

There are three broad calculation categories:

Basic Interiors

• Essential storage

• Standard laminate finishes

• Minimal customisation

Mid-Level Interiors

• Better hardware

• Some design detailing

• Feature walls

Premium Interiors

• Customised furniture

• Advanced lighting

• Decorative ceilings

• Designer finishes

The more personalised your home is, the more calculation shifts upward due to design effort and detailing.

9. Room-by-Room Calculation Method

Interior budgets are often calculated room-wise.

Kitchen

Calculated based on:

• Running feet of cabinets

• Type of finish

• Accessories included

Bedrooms

Calculated based on:

• Wardrobe size

• Internal organisers

• Extra furniture

Living Room

Calculated based on:

• TV unit size

• Wall panelling

• Lighting design

Bathrooms

Calculated based on:

• Tile area

• Vanity type

• Glass partitions

• Plumbing changes

10. How Archosphere Calculates Your Interior Budget

At Archosphere, our calculation process includes:

1. Understanding your lifestyle needs

2. Measuring your site precisely

3. Creating a layout plan

4. Listing all required units

5. Selecting materials

6. Finalising design detailing

7. Preparing a transparent BOQ (Bill of Quantities)

This ensures:

• No hidden surprises

• Clear scope definition

• Structured planning

• Controlled execution

Why Knowing the Calculation Process Matters

When you understand how interior cost is calculated:

• You make smarter material choices

• You prioritise important areas

• You avoid unnecessary upgrades

• You stay within realistic expectations

Interior design is not about random numbers.
It is about structured planning.

Want to See Real Interior Projects?

Explore our completed designs in the Archosphere Gallery:

Final Thought

Interior budgeting is not about restriction — it is about clarity.

The right calculation approach helps you:

• Invest where it matters

• Save where it’s practical

• Build a home that balances beauty and functionality

Planning your home interiors?

Schedule a consultation with Archosphere and let us help you create a realistic, well-calculated interior plan tailored to your space.