Frequently Asked Questions.

What services does Paula McCarthy Interiors offer?

We design and specify interiors for homes across Dublin and beyond, from a single room to a full renovation. That includes layouts, materials and finishes, lighting, furniture, and sourcing.

Do you work with clients outside Dublin?

Yes. While most of our projects are in Dublin, we are happy to work anywhere in Ireland, and remotely where it suits the project.

How does the interior design process work?

We start with a consultation to talk through your space, needs and budget. We then develop the design and specify everything, then source it and support you through to the completion of the project.

How much does an interior designer cost in Dublin?

Fees depend on the size, scope and complexity of the project, and whether you want design only or design plus sourcing and project support. As a guide, a 2-hour in-home consultation with Paula McCarthy Interiors is €380 + VAT, while a full home design and project management package typically starts from €10,000 + VAT, depending on the size of the home and the scope of work. After an initial conversation, we will give you a clear quote so you know exactly what to expect. Take a look at our Design Services for more detail.

How long does an interior design project take?

A single room can usually be designed within a few weeks, while a full home takes longer. Lead times on furniture, fabrics and bespoke pieces often set the overall timeline, as well as contractor or trade availability, so we will give you a realistic timeline at the start.

What is the difference between an interior designer and an interior decorator?

A decorator focuses on the surface layer: colours, furniture, soft furnishings and styling. An interior designer also looks at space layouts, materials, lighting and technical detail, and works alongside architects and builders. Our work covers the design and specification side as well as the finishing touches.

Do I need an interior designer for a renovation or extension?

It isn't required, but involving a designer early makes a real difference. Decisions about layouts, ceiling heights, window and door positions, lighting and finishes are far easier and far cheaper to get right before the build starts than to change once walls are up, floors are down and services are in.

A designer looks at the whole picture from the start: how rooms flow into each other, where natural light falls through the day, where sockets, switches and lighting circuits need to go before the electrician first fixes, and how every finish and material will work together rather than being chosen room by room as the build progresses. This is also where a lot of avoidable cost creeps in on renovations — moving a socket or repositioning a light after first fix, reordering a worktop because the layout changed, or repainting because a colour didn't work once the room was finished. Planning it properly upfront avoids costly mistakes and last minute, panic-led decisions.

We also work alongside your architect, builder and trades throughout, so the design intent carries through to site rather than getting lost in translation, and decisions get made once rather than revisited mid-build.

Do you design kitchens and bathrooms?

Yes. We plan and specify kitchens and bathrooms, including layouts, worktops, tiles, sanitaryware, taps, lighting and cabinetry details, and we can coordinate with your kitchen supplier, plumber or builder.

Can you help me choose paint colours, flooring and finishes?

Yes. We can recommend and specify paint colours, flooring, tiles, stone, fabrics and other finishes.

Do you offer online interior design in Ireland?

Yes. We can work with you remotely by video call and email, wherever you are in Ireland, and visit in person where the project benefits from it.

How do you keep an interior design project within budget?

We agree a budget at the start and we specify to it. Where it helps, we offer options at different price points so you can decide where to spend and where to save.

What should I prepare before our first consultation?

Photos of the space, measurements or plans if you have them, any inspiration you've collected, a rough budget and a list of must-haves. If you don't have all of this, that's fine. We can work it out together.

Do you have a signature style?

We design around you: how you live, your taste and the architecture of your home, rather than applying a fixed look.

Can I hire you for advice only?

Yes. If you already have a project underway and want help with colour, materials, layouts or product choices, we can offer a consultation or design-only support.

Do you source products from Irish and UK suppliers?

Yes. We research and specify from a wide range of local, Irish, UK and international suppliers. That includes unique items such as custom furniture, luxury curtains and made-to-order joinery.

Can you work with my builder or contractor?

Absolutely. We are happy to liaise with your builder, architect and trades so our specifications are clear and everything comes together on site.

How do I get started with Paula McCarthy Interiors?

Send us a message here with a few details about your project, and we will be in touch to arrange a call.