A good quotation begins
with clarity.
For an interior designer, a quotation is more than a price. It explains what will be delivered, which materials are being considered and how the proposed investment relates to the project.
A clear quotation also makes later conversations easier. When the scope, rates and assumptions are documented, both the designer and client have a better reference for revisions and approvals.
THE PROCESS
Six steps to prepare
a professional quotation.
Understand the project scope
Record the rooms, site measurements, client requirements, design expectations and work that is included or excluded.
Prepare an itemised work breakdown
Organise the quotation by room or work category. Separate major components so clients can understand what they are paying for.
Specify materials and finishes
Identify relevant material grades, finishes, hardware, brands or approved alternatives. Avoid vague descriptions wherever possible.
Calculate the project price
Use measured quantities, unit rates, labour, installation, logistics and other relevant costs. Include your margin and identify taxes separately where applicable.
Explain payment and revision terms
Document payment milestones, quotation validity, expected timelines, exclusions, variation charges and the approval process.
Review and share the quotation
Check the figures and specifications before sharing a professional proposal. Keep track of client questions, requested changes and the final approval.
WORKED EXAMPLE
What a quotation
might look like.
Consider an illustrative residential interiors project in Mumbai. A client requires a modular kitchen, a bedroom wardrobe and selected living room work.
Sharma Residence
Residential interiors · Powai, Mumbai
| Scope | Estimated amount |
|---|---|
| Modular kitchenCabinetry, shutters, hardware and installation | ₹3,42,000 |
| Master bedroom wardrobeCustom wardrobe, finish, fittings and installation | ₹1,96,000 |
| Living room and ceilingSelected finishes and false ceiling work | ₹63,000 |
| Illustrative subtotal | ₹6,01,000 |
Example amounts only, not market quotations. Final pricing depends on measurements, specifications, location and project conditions. Applicable taxes and any additional costs should be stated separately.
For a client-facing quotation, this summary should be supported by more detailed quantities, unit rates, material specifications and terms appropriate to the actual project.
BEFORE YOU SEND
The details that
protect the process.
Alongside your itemised prices, include the quotation date and validity period, proposed project schedule, payment milestones and conditions for variations or additional work.
Explain what is excluded. Clarify whether taxes, transportation, installation, site preparation and unforeseen changes are included in the quoted amount. Where applicable, verify tax treatment with a qualified professional.
COMMON MISTAKES
What to avoid
when quoting.
- Quoting a total amount without explaining the work included.
- Leaving material grades, finishes or hardware unspecified.
- Not distinguishing estimated amounts from confirmed prices.
- Forgetting installation, transport or other relevant costs.
- Failing to document exclusions and client-requested changes.
- Sharing revised quotations without clear version control.
INTRODUCING DESIGNOIRA
A more considered way
to manage proposals.
Designoira brings material catalogues, itemised proposals, client sharing and follow-ups into a connected workflow designed for interior studios.
FREQUENTLY ASKED
A few more
useful answers.
What should an interior design quotation include?
It should identify the client and project, describe the scope of work, list materials and specifications, show quantities and prices, and explain taxes where applicable, payment terms, exclusions, timelines and validity.
How do I calculate an interior design quotation?
Break the project into measurable work items, estimate quantities, apply rates, account for labour and related costs, then include your business margin. Verify the calculations before issuing the proposal.
Should an interior design quotation be room-wise?
Room-wise quotations are often easier for residential clients to review. A category-wise breakdown can also work, provided the scope and pricing remain clear.
How is a quotation different from an invoice?
A quotation proposes the scope, price and conditions before work is agreed. An invoice requests payment for goods or services supplied or billed under the agreed arrangement.