The cost to Furnish a Home in the UK: 2025 Budgeting Guide

Hello there! It’s February already, and the year is flying by hope 2025 has been treating you well so far. If you’re curious about the cost to furnish a home in the UK, you’re in the right place. We’re here to share friendly tips and practical advice to help you blend personal flair with budget-smart choices as you transform your space into a cosy, stylish home. Grab your favourite cuppa and join us on this journey, one room at a time, as we uncover how to create your dream space.

What’s the Cost to Furnish a House in the UK?

As experienced interior designers, we’re frequently asked about budgeting for home furnishings. Many of our clients are eager to transform their spaces with professional guidance but often feel uncertain about the financial commitment involved. We understand that discussing finances can be delicate, but we believe that being transparent about the costs of an interior design project is crucial, whether you’re managing it yourself or seeking expert assistance.

Understanding the Investment

image credit: House Designer

It was quite interesting to see that recent studies reveal that homeowners typically spend about 10% of their property’s value on interior decoration and furnishings. This significant investment highlights the importance of furnishings in enhancing both the value and enjoyment of a home. While that may sound like a lot, remember: this isn’t just spending—it’s investing in comfort, style, and even your property’s value.

Room-by-Room Analysis

Costs for each room may vary, ranging from budget-friendly finds at IKEA, to mid-tier choices at Wayfair and Dunelm, up to luxury designer brands and bespoke furniture designs from specialist retailers.

Bedroom Furnishing Costs

• Budget-Friendly: No doubt that you can kickstart your bedroom makeover with just £1000 for example. This budget-wise option includes essential pieces such as a bed frame and mattress from value-focused retailers like IKEA.

• Mid-Range: Elevate your bedroom with a budget of £2,200 to £5,500. This tier offers higher-quality mattresses and solid wood furniture from trusted names like John Lewis, blending durability with style.

• Luxury Budget: For those with a taste for the finer things, luxury bedroom furnishings start at £10,000. High-end retailers provide bespoke designs and materials, ensuring your bedroom is a sanctuary of comfort and style.

Furnishing a home isn’t just about the main living spaces—it’s also about creating comfortable and practical rooms for the whole family. When it comes to designing children’s spaces, finding the right balance between fun and functionality is key. Whether you’re looking for smart storage solutions or stylish yet sturdy furniture, there are plenty of great options out there, like this kids bedroom furniture selection, which offers both practicality and playful charm.

Living Room Furnishing Costs

• Budget-Friendly: Starting at £800, this tier includes basic setups from IKEA or Wayfair, fitting the lower end of the budget spectrum.
• Mid-Range: With prices between £3,500 to 4,500, options from Daals or Dunelm offer quality within a mid-range budget.

• Luxury: Beginning at £10,000, high-end selections from Heals or Loaf cater to those willing to invest more, reflecting a commitment to luxury.

Dining Room Furnishing Costs

• Budget-Friendly: For as low as £700, simple and compact dining sets from Argos or IKEA are available, suited to those seeking functional dining solutions without the expense.

• Mid-Range: Homeowners investing between £2,500 and £4,500 can acquire a solid dining table and chairs from John Lewis or Dunelm, offering a balance of style and durability, with added options for storage or display units.

• Luxury: Starting from £7,000, luxury dining room sets from premium retailers feature bespoke designs and materials, catering to individuals with a larger budget desiring a statement dining area.

Kitchen Furnishing Costs

• Budget-Friendly: Basic kitchen updates focusing on essential appliances and cabinetry can start from £5,000, utilising IKEA or similar brands for a functional yet minimalistic approach.

• Mid-Range: A budget of £10,000 to £20,000 allows for a mid-range kitchen refurbishment from B&Q or Homebase, incorporating quality appliances and customised design options for a blend of functionality and style.

• Luxury: For those seeking a gourmet kitchen experience, luxury renovations begin at £35,000, featuring high-end appliances, bespoke cabinetry, and premium materials for a fully customised designer kitchen.

Home Office Furnishing Costs

• Budget-Friendly: A simple, functional home office setup can be achieved for as little as £500, with basic desks and chairs from IKEA or Daals, suitable for minimal needs.

• Mid-Range: Investing £2,000 to £5,000 enhances the workspace with ergonomic furniture and stylish storage solutions from John Lewis, promoting productivity and aesthetic appeal.

• Luxury: Starting at £10,000, luxury home office design feature premium furniture, bespoke joinery, and designer pieces, ideal for those valuing a luxurious and personalised work environment.

Bathroom Furnishing Costs

• Budget-Friendly: Essential bathroom updates, including basic fixtures, can start around £3,500, utilising cost-effective options from B&Q for a straightforward refresh.

• Mid-Range: With a budget of £5,000 to £7,000, homeowners can undertake mid-range renovations, incorporating quality fixtures and stylish vanity units for a more comprehensive update.

• Luxury: Luxury bathroom projects begin at £9,000, involving high-end fixtures, custom vanities, and premium materials, aimed at creating an indulgent, spa-like experience.

Homeowners Guide to Finishing Your Home

• Balanced Budgeting: Understanding and allocating your budget according to your needs and the value of your home is crucial for achieving satisfactory results across all rooms.

• Quality Investment: While initial costs may be higher, investing in quality pieces can provide better durability and satisfaction in the long run.

• Personal Touch: Regardless of budget, personalising your space to reflect your style and needs is key to creating a home that feels uniquely yours.

This comprehensive cost analysis aims to help UK homeowners navigate the journey of furnishing their homes, ensuring informed decisions that balance cost, comfort, and style across every room.

Budgeting for Your New Home

A Quick Snapshot of Costs:

• Furnishing a 2-bedroom flat: £5,000–£20,000

• Furnishing a 3-bedroom home: £7,000–£30,000+

• Furnishing a 4-bedroom home: £10,000–£50,000+

Enhancing Your Budget with House Designer

Tackling your furnishing project within budget can be daunting. House Designer simplifies this process, providing tailored advice to ensure efficient use of your funds, regardless of project size.

Tips for Budget-Friendly Furnishing

• Mix and Match: Pair investment pieces with affordable finds to get the best of both worlds.

• Shop Sales: Keep an eye on seasonal discounts or clearance events.

• Pre-Loved Gems: Explore second-hand stores for unique and budget-friendly treasures.

• Plan Smart: List your needs and set a budget before you shop to avoid overspending.

A Budgeting Guide with Our Calculator

To make your budgeting process even easier, don’t forget to use our Interior Design Budget Calculator. This handy tool is designed to give you an accurate estimate based on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you’re furnishing a single room or an entire home, our calculator helps you stay on track and within budget. It’s the perfect way to plan your dream space with confidence!

How House Designer Can Help

Unlock your home’s full potential with House Designer. Utilise our budget calculator for accurate estimates and schedule a free consultation to start your well-planned design journey. Let’s ensure your investment enhances your home, perfectly balancing cost, comfort, and style.

With a well-furnished home, you’re not just elevating your daily life—you’re enhancing your property’s value by up to 5%. So, whether you’re going for cosy or luxurious, let’s make your house feel like home. Book a free consultation today, and let’s design something you’ll truly love!

Estimate based on pricing at of February 2025.