Opening a restaurant involves many expenses, and interior design is one of the most critical investments. A well-designed space enhances customer experience, improves functionality, and reinforces your brand identity. But how much should you budget for a restaurant interior designer in the UK?

In this guide, we'll break down the typical costs, factors that influence pricing, and how to get the best value for your project.

Average Costs of Restaurant Interior Designers in the UK

Restaurant interior design fees vary widely depending on the scope, location, and designer's experience. Here's a general breakdown:

Service Level Average Cost What's Included?
Consultation Only £50 – £150 per hour Initial concept advice, space planning, and recommendations.
Partial Design Service £2,000 – £10,000 Mood boards, layouts, and material selections (but no full project management).
Full-Service Design £10,000 – £50,000+ End-to-end design, contractor coordination, FF&E sourcing, and installation oversight.
Luxury/High-End Design £50,000 – £150,000+ Bespoke designs, premium materials, custom furniture, and branded theming.

Additional Costs to Consider

  • Building Regulations & Planning Permissions – £500 – £5,000 (if structural changes are needed).

  • FF&E (Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment) – £5,000 – £50,000 depending on quality.

  • Lighting & Decor – £2,000 – £20,000.

What Affects Restaurant Interior Design Costs?

Several factors influence pricing:

1. Size of the Restaurant

  • A small café (500 sq ft) may cost £5,000 – £20,000.

  • A mid-sized restaurant (1,500 sq ft) could range £20,000 – £60,000.

  • Large venues (3,000+ sq ft) often exceed £75,000+.

2. Location (UK Variations)

  • London & Southeast – 20-30% higher due to demand and labour costs.

  • Midlands & North – Generally more affordable.

3. Complexity of the Design

  • Simple refresh (repainting, new furniture) – Lower cost.

  • Full refurbishment (structural changes, bespoke joinery) – Higher cost.

4. Designer's Experience

  • Freelancers & junior designers – £50–£100 per hour.

  • Established design firms – £100–£300+ per hour.

  • Celebrity designers – £500+ per hour (rare for most restaurants).

5. Materials & Finishes

  • Budget-friendly (laminate, standard furniture) – Lower cost.

  • Premium (marble, solid wood, custom lighting) – Significantly higher.

Ways to Save on Restaurant Interior Design?

  1. Opt for a Partial Design Package – Handle procurement and project management yourself.

  2. Repurpose Existing Elements – Refurbish rather than replace furniture and fittings.

  3. Work with Local Designers – Avoid London premiums if your restaurant is outside the capital.

  4. Phase the Project – Start with essential areas (dining room) and expand later.

Is Hiring a Restaurant Interior Designer Worth It?

Absolutely. A professional designer can:

✔ Increase foot traffic with an inviting, Instagram-worthy space.

✔ Improve workflow efficiency for staff.

✔ Boost customer dwell time (and spending) with smart layouts.

✔ Avoid costly mistakes in lighting, seating, or compliance.

Final Thoughts

Restaurant interior design costs in the UK vary, but investing in a well-planned space pays off in customer satisfaction and long-term profitability. Whether you choose a freelance designer or a full-service firm, ensure their style aligns with your brand vision.

Need help finding the right designer? Get quotes from multiple professionals to compare pricing and portfolios before committing.