Budget, Timeline & Insider Tips for a Seamless Home Project

If you're planning a remodel or new build in Orange County, bringing in a designer isn't just a nice-to-have—it’s a strategic decision that will make or break your experience. From the moment you start planning, your designer is the one who connects vision with reality, aesthetics with function, and budgets with actual costs. Here's what you should know before you hire.

custom kitchen designer oc — When to Hire a Designer (Spoiler: Immediately)

You should ideally engage your designer right after receiving the first draft of architectural drawings. Why? Because architects think in terms of form and structure—we think about how you'll *live* in the space. We spot opportunities and problem areas that don’t always show up in 2D: awkward furniture flow, poor lighting plans, kitchen islands that look good on paper but don’t work in real life.
By bringing us in early, you unlock the ability to think in 3D. We help define lighting, electrical, millwork, and finishes *before* plans go to the city or your contractor bids the job—saving you time, money, and frustration down the line.
Why Design Comes Before Bidding
Contractors can’t accurately price what isn’t defined. Custom hood? Specialty tile layout? Cabinet trim details? These may seem like decisions for later—but they *directly affect cost and timeline*.
When you hire a designer first, the contractor receives a fully documented set of drawings, elevations, specs, and selections. Their questions can focus on refinement and execution, not basics. This means smoother bids, fewer change orders, and a far less chaotic job site.

Understanding Design Fees: What to Expect

Design fees in Orange County vary depending on firm size, expertise, and project scope. Here’s a breakdown:

Flat Fees: Most high-end designers charge a flat fee, often structured by room or scope. At Nested, our design fees typically begin at $8,500 for a bathroom, $15,000 for a kitchen, and increase with larger or more complex projects. This includes everything from concept development and finish selections to drawings, elevations, and 3D renderings.
Hourly Rates: Some designers bill hourly, typically ranging from $120 to $500/hour, depending on experience and firm size. This structure is often used for consultations, project management, or à la carte services.
What’s Included? Look for clarity. At Nested, our flat fee includes:
- Moodboards and design concepts
- Detailed floor plans, elevations, and renderings
- All material, finish, and fixture selections
- Samples (when applicable)
- One formal revision round
- Coordination with your build team

Project Management: How Much Designer Support Do You Need?

At Nested, we know construction. We’ve worked on-site, in the dust, answering contractor questions and solving problems that clients didn’t even know existed. It’s where we shine.

We require one on-site meeting per month during active construction to keep your design moving, troubleshoot in real-time, and maintain quality control. But if you're busy or prefer not to be hands-on, we're also available for comprehensive project management billed hourly. That can include site visits, contractor coordination, and handling the never-ending stream of questions, clarifications, and “can we just...” moments that pop up mid-project.

Budget Reality Check: The Truth About Remodeling in OC

No custom project in Orange County is happening for under six figures. That’s just the truth. Whether it’s a bathroom gut, a high-end kitchen, or a full remodel, quality craftsmanship and materials come at a cost.

Here’s what to expect:

Kitchen remodels: High-end kitchens begin around $100,000–$175,000+ depending on layout changes, cabinetry, appliances, and finishes. (Source)
Full home remodels: Plan for $100–$300+ per square foot, depending on structural changes, selections, and contractor rates.
New construction: Fully custom homes typically range from $200–$400 per square foot.

These figures are before furnishings or styling—and that’s a whole separate investment.