Understanding Trade Pricing in Interior Design

Tamiko Gleeson
Jan 12
3 min read

Updated: Apr 24

Trade pricing consists of what are referred to as 'discounts' that suppliers offer exclusively to industry professionals, including interior designers. These 'discounts', typically ranging from 10% to 40%, apply to furniture, fixtures, finishes, and other materials.

What Are 'Discounts' Really?

These 'discounts' aren't really what they seem. They are special prices, more accurately referred to as trade pricing, available exclusively for professionals in the design industry.

Designers use their industry connections to access these prices, allowing you to maximize your renovation budget. However, each designer handles and communicates trade pricing differently, based on their specific business model.

Four Common Methods Designers Use for Trade Pricing

Understanding how designers approach trade pricing is essential. Here are four common methods they use:

Sharing Trade Pricing in Full: Some designers show you their exact trade pricing and have you pay suppliers directly. This transparent approach appeals to clients who want clarity about renovation costs.
Charging a Procurement Fee: This model adds a flat percentage (usually 10–20%) to the trade price. The fee covers sourcing, ordering, and delivery coordination. While you may not see the base trade price, you benefit from the designer managing the entire procurement process.
Not Sharing Trade Pricing: Some designers present only final costs, keeping trade prices private. This approach is often seen when designers emphasize their sourcing and curation expertise while absorbing trade-only pricing into their fees. You pay for a streamlined experience without pricing details.
Sharing a Portion of Trade Pricing: In this blended approach, designers share part of their trade pricing. For instance, with a 30% 'discount', they might pass 15% to you while keeping the rest to cover procurement work.

Is There a Right or Wrong Method?

Simply put, no, there is no absolute right or wrong.

Each designer's approach reflects their business model, services, and the value they deliver. What's crucial is transparency. A reputable designer will clearly explain their trade pricing process to clients, avoiding secrecy and surprises.

At Howard Lane Designs, we proudly share trade pricing in full with our clients, allowing you to pay your invoices directly to suppliers. We believe this transparency enables our clients to see their savings while fostering trust throughout their renovation journey.

Why Understanding Trade Pricing Matters

When selecting an interior designer for your renovation or new build, understanding their trade pricing approach is vital. It helps you budget effectively and make confident decisions. Knowing their methods upfront builds trust and ensures you're comfortable with your investment.

Building Trust with Your Designer

Understanding trade pricing benefits both you and your designer. It establishes a collaborative environment where you can discuss expectations and potential outcomes. You're empowered to ask questions and ensure you grasp how your budget will be utilized.

Whether you prefer full transparency or the convenience of managed procurement, finding a designer whose approach aligns with your needs is essential for successful collaboration.

Ready to Start Your Design Journey?

If you're planning a renovation or new build and value transparency and satisfaction, we're here to help.

Understanding trade pricing empowers you to navigate your renovation journey confidently and choose the right design team. After all, creating your dream home should be an enjoyable experience from start to finish!

About Howard Lane Designs

Howard Lane Designs is an interior design and styling studio located on the Northern Beaches of Sydney, but we support clients across Australia. We specialize in kitchen, bathroom, and laundry designs, for new builds or renovations. Furniture and Art Curation is an exclusive service provided to our interior design clients.