What Goes Into Full-Service Design Pricing? Understanding the True Cost of Furnishing a Home

When clients first reach out to us for full-service furnishing, the question of pricing is often top of mind. And while it's easy to assume that the bulk of the investment is in the furniture itself, the reality is more layered. Full-service interior design is about more than sofas and coffee tables—it’s about creating a cohesive, livable space that reflects your lifestyle, while handling every detail from start to finish.

Here’s a look behind the scenes at what truly goes into pricing a full-service furnishing project:

Design by Jean Stoffer Design

Investment in Quality Furniture

Of course, furniture is a key component of any furnishing project. But in our studio, we prioritize pieces that are built to last. That means sourcing from vendors who craft with quality materials, pay attention to construction, and produce items that will hold up to daily life—especially for families with kids and pets.

While a mass-market piece may seem less expensive upfront, it often needs replacing within a few years. In contrast, well-made furnishings are an investment in both style and longevity.

Trade Services

Furnishing a room often involves more than simply placing a new chair. You might need:

• Wallpaper installation

• Paint or drywall touch-ups

• Light fixture installation

• Window treatments

• Custom carpentry

• Art hanging or hardware swaps

Each of these requires trusted tradespeople—and managing their schedules, scope, and quality is a big part of what we do. Labor costs vary, but they’re essential to getting a polished result.

Project Management & Procurement

What often goes unseen in a full-service project is the sheer volume of coordination involved. We:

• Handle ordering and logistics

• Track backorders and lead times

• Manage deliveries and white glove installations

• Troubleshoot any issues (like the wrong finish showing up or a sofa not fitting through a doorway)

This level of detail requires time, experience, and a team working behind the scenes. It’s what keeps your project stress-free and on track.

Styling & Final Layering

A finished space is more than just furniture—it’s lighting, art, textiles, and styling touches that make the room feel like you. We source rugs, lamps, drapery, bedding, pillows, accessories, and often custom pieces to make each space feel considered and complete.

These smaller pieces may not be top of mind at the beginning, but they play a huge role in the final transformation.

Unforeseen Challenges

Every home is different, and older homes in particular often hold surprises. Maybe an outlet isn’t in the right place, or existing millwork impacts how a new dresser fits. These surprises can add small adjustments to the project scope, requiring extra time or trade support.

That’s why we build in flexibility and communicate transparently—so you’re never caught off guard.

Scope Creep (It’s Real!)

Often, a project that begins with “just the living room” grows to include the entryway or dining nook. That’s completely normal! Once clients see the design vision come to life, they often want it carried through the home. We’re always happy to scale up thoughtfully, but it’s important to acknowledge that these additions shift the budget and timeline.

The Bottom Line

When you invest in full-service design, you’re paying for more than beautiful furnishings. You’re investing in experience, problem-solving, craftsmanship, and peace of mind. Our goal is to take the burden off your plate and deliver a space that functions beautifully, feels like home, and stands the test of time.

If you’re craving a finished space that finally feels complete, we’d love to help. Whether you’re starting with one room or tackling the whole house, 13th Avenue Interiors offers thoughtful, full-service design tailored to your lifestyle and home.

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Creating Something Beautiful Together

If you have an old home in, or around, South Minneapolis and are wondering how to update it with expertise and ease, we’re here to help. Reach out today to learn how we can help guide you through the process with ease and expertise.

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*Click photos to link to source. Images may contain affiliate links.

*This blog post was created with the assistance of AI in combination with 13th Avenue Interiors ideas, knowledge, expertise and experience.