Introductions: When planning an interior project, one of the first questions almost every homeowner asks is: “What is the average interior design budget per square foot?” This is one of the most important and most searched topics in the interior industry because knowing the per SFT interior cost helps you plan your renovation with confidence. A clear idea about the budget allows you to estimate your total investment, manage your finances more effectively, and avoid unexpected expenses during the renovation process.
In Bangladesh, the interior design cost per square foot varies widely depending on several factors—such as the design style you choose, the quality of materials, the skill level of the craftsmen, and the overall project complexity. Whether you are designing a modern apartment, renovating a commercial office, or upgrading a luxury home, understanding these cost variations is essential for making informed decisions.
Average Interior Design Cost Per Square Foot (SFT)
The average interior design cost per square foot (SFT) in Bangladesh typically ranges from 800 BDT to 4,500 BDT, depending on your design style, material selection, space size, and overall finish quality. This pricing helps homeowners get a clear idea of how much their renovation or new interior project may cost. Basic interior design usually covers essential carpentry, standard painting, regular lighting, and entry-level materials, making it suitable for budget-friendly homes or rental apartments. Standard mid-range interiors provide better-quality laminates, refined finishing, functional storage solutions, decorative lighting, and a modern look—ideal for most family apartments. For a high-end, luxury finish, premium interior design includes imported materials, advanced lighting systems, custom-made furniture, sophisticated wall paneling, and exceptional craftsmanship to create an elegant and durable interior. These per-square-foot rates generally include design planning, materials, labor, installation, and essential finishing works, helping you budget confidently and avoid unexpected expenses. This clear cost structure also helps compare quotations, choose the right materials, and ensure your interior project stays within your financial plan.
Interior Cost Breakdown (Point Form)
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Basic Interior (Economy Finish):
800 – 1,500 BDT/SFT -
Standard Interior (Mid-Range Finish):
1,700 – 3,300 BDT/SFT -
Premium Interior (Luxury Finish):
3,500 –4,500+ BDT/SFT -
Overall Average Interior Budget in Bangladesh:
800 – 4,500 BDT/SFT depending on materials and finish quality
Why Per-Square-Foot Cost Matters in Interior Design
Understanding the per-square-foot (SFT) cost in interior design is extremely important because it helps homeowners create a clear and realistic project budget from the very beginning. When you know your per SFT rate, you can easily compare quotations from different designers or contractors and understand exactly what you are paying for. It also allows you to plan upgrades or additional features based on your space, style preferences, and financial capacity. A proper per-square-foot calculation helps you avoid hidden charges or unexpected expenses during the project, which is a common issue many clients face. Most importantly, it helps you choose the right materials, finishes, and design elements that match your budget and overall interior goals. This is why per SFT interior cost is one of the most searched and SEO-friendly topics online—homeowners always look for clear, transparent cost information before starting any renovation or interior design project.
Key Factors That Influence Interior Design Budget Per SFT
Many elements affect how much you pay per square foot. The major ones are:
Design Complexity
The complexity of your interior design plays a major role in determining the overall per-square-foot (SFT) cost. Simple and minimalist designs usually cost less because they require fewer materials and less labor time. On the other hand, detailed designs such as layered false ceilings, wooden paneling, decorative wall cladding, custom-made furniture, or intricate design elements significantly increase the cost. These advanced features demand skilled craftsmanship, more installation time, and high-quality materials, which naturally raise the per SFT price. The more complex your design vision is, the higher your interior budget becomes.
Material Selection
Material selection is one of the most important factors that directly impact the interior design budget per SFT. Using basic local boards, regular laminates, and simple lighting options keeps your cost low, while choosing high-quality or imported materials—such as foreign boards, high-pressure laminates, premium lighting brands, or luxury finishing items—will increase your total cost. Good materials not only improve the look and feel of your space but also offer better durability, water resistance, fire safety, and long-term performance. Interior design is an investment, and selecting quality materials ensures you get long-lasting value and a polished, modern finish.
Project Scope
The broader the project scope, the higher the per SFT interior budget. Interior design is not limited to just furniture or painting—it includes carpentry, electrical work, lighting, flooring, false ceiling, wall partitioning, décor, accessories, and much more. If your project involves multiple work categories, naturally the materials, labor, supervision, and finishing requirements increase. For example, a project that includes full modular kitchen work, decorative lighting, ceiling design, and custom furniture will cost more than a project that only includes basic painting and simple cabinetry. The number of items included determines the overall per-square-foot rate.
Labor & Technical Skill
The quality of labor and the level of technical expertise directly influence your interior cost. Skilled and experienced craftsmen may charge more, but they deliver superior finishing, precise installation, and long-lasting results. High-quality interior work—such as seamless carpentry joints, smooth wall finishes, perfect panel alignment, and professional lighting installations—depends heavily on expert labor. Cheap or unskilled labor may lower your initial cost but can result in mistakes, uneven finishing, and long-term maintenance issues. Investing in good craftsmanship ensures your interior design looks polished and lasts longer.
Site Condition
The condition of your site—whether it is a new apartment, an old building, or a renovation project—also affects the per SFT interior design cost. Older buildings or spaces that require repair, leveling, demolition, or additional structural adjustments naturally involve more materials, extra labor time, and detailed supervision. This increases both the overall cost and the project duration. Even factors like moisture issues, damaged flooring, uneven walls, or electric rewiring needs can raise the interior budget. Better site conditions generally mean smoother work, faster installation, and lower expenses.
Room-Wise Average Interior Budget Per Square Foot
Different spaces have different design needs. Here’s a quick idea:
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Living Room Interior: 1500 –3,500 BDT/SFT
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Bedroom Interior: 800 – 2,200 BDT/SFT
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Kitchen Interior: 2,000 – 4,500 BDT/SFT
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Office Interior: 800 – 4,500 BDT/SFT
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Retail / Showroom: 1,200 – 4,500 BDT/SFT
Kitchen and commercial interiors are usually more expensive due to functionality, storage, and heavy usage.
Hidden Costs Many People Forget to Calculate
While estimating per square foot interior budget, many clients forget to add:
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Electrical rewiring
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Extra lighting fixtures
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Civil changes
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Polishing, sanding, adhesives, putty
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Transportation & installation charges
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Touch-up and repairing works
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Project management fees
These small details add up and can increase your per SFT cost by 10–20%.
How to Estimate Your Total Interior Budget?
A simple formula:
Total Interior Budget = (Per SFT Rate × Total Square Feet)
Example:
If your apartment is 1,200 SFT and you choose 1,500 BDT/SFT,
then:
1,200 × 1,500 = 18,00,000 BDT Total Budget
Budget-Friendly Tips to Reduce Per SFT Interior Cost
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Use laminate instead of veneer for economic finishing
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Keep ceiling designs simple
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Avoid unnecessary partitions
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Choose built-in furniture instead of multiple loose pieces
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Use warm lighting instead of expensive decorative fixtures
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Finalize design before starting work (reduces unnecessary rework cost)
Final Thoughts
The average interior design budget per square foot depends on your preferred materials, design style, and space size. Understanding the cost structure helps you plan wisely and achieve a beautiful, functional, and long-lasting interior within your budget.
