At Sean Symington Design, we work across the UK and are deeply familiar with the nuances of the housing landscape, from charming Georgian townhouses in Oxfordshire to innovative Paragraph 80 builds. Every project brings its own set of variables, and with that comes the importance of clear expectations around design, scope, and budget.
When we begin a project, we always take the time to walk through our design process with clients. We look at what truly needs to be done, what you would love to achieve, and how this aligns with your budget. Everyone naturally has a figure in mind, but in our experience, it’s often more helpful to explore the possibilities together so we can provide you with a realistic indication of what’s achievable.
That said, I tend to avoid giving out generic costings without first understanding a project in detail. Interior design is never one-size-fits-all, and budgets vary enormously depending on scope, style, and ambition.
What I can share, however, are the key areas to consider when planning your own design budget.
1. Design Fees
This covers the entire creative journey: from concept design through to detailed drawings, installation, finishing touches, and the occasional sourcing trip or antique-hunting excursion together.
2. FF&E (Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment)
This is where investment in quality really shines. We often advise clients to allocate more of their budget to fabrics and upholstery, as these elevate the scheme and add longevity. To balance this, we love layering in antiques or vintage finds, they add personality, charm, and a sense of story to a space without necessarily inflating costs.
3. Project management and procurement
We handle the coordination and procurement process from start to finish. Designers typically work with trade discounts, which means that depending on the project, we either pass those savings directly to you (with a separate project management fee) or we charge at retail less 10%, with the margin between trade and discounted cost covering our project management time. This ensures the process is efficient, transparent, and tailored to your project.
4. Always allow for a contingency fund
Older homes, in particular, are full of history, not only from the time they were built but from the many layers of ownership and alteration since. Renovations can unearth surprises, some delightful and some less so. Combine that with fluctuating construction costs, and it becomes essential to build in a contingency. It provides peace of mind and prevents your budget from being overstretched should the unexpected arise.
As it relates to homes in Oxford and Oxfordshire
Designing in Oxfordshire offers a unique blend of opportunity and challenge. From honey-stone cottages in the Cotswolds to grand country houses and elegant period homes in Oxford itself, each property demands a tailored approach.
Many of these homes come with heritage considerations, quirky layouts, or listed status, all of which can impact cost. At the same time, they provide an incredible canvas for bespoke design.
When budgeting, it’s important to allow for specialist trades, sympathetic restoration, and the finishing details that honour the character of these properties while bringing them into a contemporary way of living.
At Sean Symington Design, we relish this balance: respecting history while creating homes that feel timeless, personal, and distinctly yours.