Decorating a room can be one of the most exciting parts of making a house feel like a home. Whether you’re refreshing a tired-looking bedroom or giving your living room a total makeover, the process allows you to add personality and comfort to your space. But naturally, many people ask the same question before picking up a paintbrush. What is the cost of decorating a room UK?
The answer can vary a lot depending on your taste, the room size, whether you choose DIY or professional help, and the quality of the materials you use. This article will walk you through realistic pricing, smart budgeting tips, and how to get the most style for your money.
Understanding What Goes Into Decorating Costs
Before jumping into estimates, it’s important to understand the different elements that make up the overall cost of decorating a room UK. You’re not just paying for paint or wallpaper. Costs typically include surface preparation, materials, labour (if hiring help), furniture updates, lighting, flooring, and accessories.
Even small choices, like whether you go for budget or designer finishes, can significantly affect the total price. That’s why a bit of planning can save you hundreds of pounds in the long run.
Average Cost of Decorating a Room in the UK
The average cost of decorating a room UK can range from as little as £300 for a simple DIY project to over £2,000 for a fully professional job with high-end finishes.
If you’re working on a bedroom or small lounge and handling it yourself, your main expenses might be limited to paint, brushes, and a few new accessories. This kind of job could cost you under £500.
However, if you hire a decorator, add wallpaper, install new flooring, or buy new furniture, you’ll likely be spending somewhere between £1,000 and £2,500, depending on the room’s size and your expectations.
Painting vs Wallpaper: What’s the Cost Difference?
Paint is usually the more budget-friendly option. A good quality tin of paint costs around £20 to £40 per 2.5L, which covers roughly 30 square metres. If you’re painting a medium-sized room yourself, expect to spend about £100 to £200 on paint and tools.
Wallpaper, on the other hand, can cost significantly more. A single roll of decent wallpaper ranges from £15 to £50, and you’ll often need several rolls to complete a room. Installation is more time-consuming and usually requires a professional if you want it done well. Labour alone can cost between £200 and £400, depending on room size.
So, while wallpaper can offer bold style and texture, it may increase the cost of decorating a room UK compared to painting.
Flooring: A Major Contributor to Decorating Costs
Flooring is often one of the most expensive parts of decorating a room. The material you choose has a big impact on your final cost. Carpet is generally cheaper than hardwood but may not last as long or suit every style.
For example, budget laminate flooring starts around £10 per square metre, while premium wood flooring can exceed £60 per square metre. Don’t forget to factor in underlay, installation, and possibly removing the old flooring.
A small room could cost around £300 to £600 for basic flooring and installation. Larger or higher-end projects could easily reach £1,000 or more. Including new flooring in your project can dramatically affect the cost of decorating a room UK, so it’s worth thinking carefully about whether it’s essential or something to save for later.
Furniture and Accessories: Budget-Friendly Styling
When updating a room, many people are surprised to find that accessories and furniture can quickly add up. A new sofa, side table, or bedframe might seem like minor upgrades, but the total can become significant.
Fortunately, this is one area where you have complete control over your budget. Choosing second-hand items, upcycling furniture you already own, or shopping during seasonal sales can help you decorate beautifully without spending a fortune.
A modest refresh using affordable furniture and a few new accessories might only cost £200 to £500, while a complete refurnishing using new designer pieces could easily exceed £2,000.
Should You Hire a Professional or Go DIY?
Labour costs are often a major chunk of the cost of decorating a room UK. Hiring a painter and decorator will usually cost between £150 and £300 per day, depending on your location and their experience.
If you’re confident with a paintbrush, going the DIY route could save you a lot of money. On the other hand, for tasks like wallpapering, flooring, or installing lighting fixtures, hiring a professional ensures the job is done to a high standard and often faster.
Your decision might come down to time, skill level, and how confident you are in managing the project yourself.
Tips to Keep Costs Under Control
Smart planning can help you get the most from your budget. Start by defining your priorities. Is it more important to have high-end flooring or a luxury statement wall? Focus your spending on what matters most and look for affordable options elsewhere.
Try to plan your purchases during sales events and don’t underestimate the value of budget brands, many now offer excellent quality for much lower prices than premium names.
Finally, set a firm budget before you begin. Without one, it’s easy to get carried away and overspend on unnecessary extras.
Final Thoughts
The cost of decorating a room UK doesn’t have to break the bank. Whether you’re working with £500 or £5,000, it’s possible to create a beautiful, comfortable, and stylish space with smart decisions and a little creativity.
By understanding where the money goes and how to prioritise your spending, you can achieve stunning results without going over budget. Whether you choose to go the DIY route or bring in professionals, careful planning and resourcefulness are the keys to a successful room transformation.
