Interior Design Cost Malaysia (2025 Guide)
Introduction: Interior Design Costs Malaysia
If you’re planning to renovate your home in Malaysia, one of the first questions that comes to mind is:
How much will an interior designer cost me?
Interior design costs in Malaysia typically range from RM7–RM10 per square foot for design-only services. The cost can vary widely depending on your property type, scope of work, and the designer’s experience. As someone who has worked with homeowners in Klang Valley, Penang, and Johor over the past decade, I’ve seen renovation budgets range from RM20,000 for small condo makeovers to RM300,000+ for luxury landed homes.
This guide will give you a transparent breakdown of interior design cost Malaysia for 2025, so you can budget with confidence.
👉 If you’d like to see real-life examples, check my Interior Design Portfolio Malaysia where I break down actual projects by price and style. (Coming soon)
Average Interior Design Cost by Property Type
| Property Type | Est. Cost Range (RM) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Studio/Small Condo (400–700 sq ft) | 20,000 – 50,000 | Compact design, space optimisation |
| Mid-size Condo (800–1,200 sq ft) | 40,000 – 120,000 | Full renovation, built-ins, furniture |
| Landed House (1,500–3,000 sq ft) | 80,000 – 250,000+ | Larger carpentry, kitchen, multiple rooms |
| Luxury Homes / Semi-D / Bungalow | 150,000 – 500,000+ | Premium finishes, custom design |
📌 Methodology: Ranges are my professional estimates based on recent project quotations and contractor tenders I’ve managed in Malaysia.
How Interior Designers in Malaysia Charge
Different designers use different charging models. The most common are:
- Flat Fee (Lump Sum) – A fixed project cost (e.g., RM30k for design + project management).
- Percentage of Renovation Cost – Typically 5–15% of total renovation budget for big scale projects.
- Example: RM100k renovation → RM10k designer fee.
- Per Square Foot (psf) – Usually RM10–RM60 psf, depending on complexity.
💡 Pro tip: Always request a detailed Bill of Quantities (BQ) from your designer. This ensures transparency and avoids hidden costs.
👉 For more renovation planning advice, see my Renovation Tips and Trends in Malaysia guide.
Disclaimer: Figures are guides only; final costs depend on site conditions, materials, and scope. Request a written quotation before starting work.
Factors That Affect Interior Design Pricing
Several factors influence how much you’ll pay:
- Property size & layout – Larger homes = more materials & work.
- Design style – Minimalist vs. luxury modern can differ by RM50k+.
- Materials used – Imported wood, marble, custom finishes drive costs up.
- Scope of work – Simple furnishing vs. full renovation with hacking & plumbing.
- Designer’s experience – Senior designers with strong portfolios often charge higher but bring proven quality.
Tips to Save on Interior Design Costs
- Set a clear budget – Communicate it upfront to avoid overspending.
- Mix custom & ready-made furniture – Built-ins are beautiful but pricey.
- Phase your renovation – Do essentials first (kitchen, bedroom), add extras later.
- Compare 2–3 quotations – Ensure each has clear scope & materials listed.
- Choose function over trend – Practicality lasts longer than seasonal styles.
👉 Want to balance budget with design trends? Check out the latest Interior Design Trends & Ideas in Malaysia for inspiration.
Is Hiring an Interior Designer Worth It?
Many Malaysian homeowners wonder if hiring a designer is “extra cost.”
In reality, a good designer can save you money and stress by:
- Avoiding costly renovation mistakes.
- Managing contractors and timelines.
- Designing functional layouts (especially for condos with limited space).
- Adding resale value to your property.
👉 For example, one of my Klang Valley clients increased their condo’s rental rate by 20% after a RM40k interior design makeover. Find out how much prices different rental on property platform.
Conclusion: Finding the Right Budget
Interior design cost in Malaysia isn’t one-size-fits-all.
It depends on your property, lifestyle, and budget priorities.
Whether you’re starting small or planning a dream home renovation, work with a registered, experienced interior designer who can balance creativity, quality, and cost.
📞 Ready to discuss your renovation? Contact me to explore my Interior Design Services in Malaysia directly!
About the Author:
Zachary Khaw is an interior designer based in Malaysia with over 10 years of experience creating functional, stylish spaces for Malaysian homes. His work focuses on combining modern aesthetics with practical living.
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