What is the difference between an interior designer and a contractor?

An interior designer plans the space: layout, materials, lighting and how the room will look and work, usually shown in drawings and 3D renderings. A contractor builds it: demolition, plumbing, electrical, cabinets, tile and permits. In Nevada, construction requires a licensed contractor. A designer's package is what the contractor prices and builds from.

Do I need a designer before hiring a contractor in Nevada?

Not legally, but it usually pays off when the layout, look or budget is still open. A finished design lets several licensed Nevada contractors bid on the same plan, so quotes are comparable and change orders drop. If you are replacing like for like, a contractor can often price it directly. Nevada does require a licensed contractor for construction.

Answers · Cost

Is design-only cheaper than design-build?

Q: Is design-only cheaper than design-build?

It often is, because you pay a fixed design fee and then collect competing bids from licensed contractors on one finished plan. Design-build bundles design into a single contractor's price, which is convenient but harder to compare. With design-only, the design fee is known up front and construction is priced separately, so you see both numbers clearly.

How the two models differ

Design-build: one company designs and builds. One contract, one point of contact, one price that blends design and construction.
Design-only: a studio designs, then your own licensed contractor builds. Two contracts, two clear prices.

Where design-only saves money

Comparable bids. Every contractor prices the same cabinets, surfaces and layout, so the low bid is a real low bid.
Fewer change orders. Decisions happen on screen, in 3D, before anything is ordered.
No hidden design markup. The design fee is a known number, and there is no incentive to steer you toward a builder's preferred products.

Design-build can make sense when you already trust a builder and want one hand to hold. If you want independent design and the freedom to choose your contractor, design-only is the calmer path. Our packages start at $2,500 for a bath and $3,500 for a kitchen, and we never build.

LV Home Concept provides interior design, planning and 3D rendering services. We do not perform construction. Construction is carried out by your own licensed contractor. Images labeled "Design concept" are digital concepts, not completed projects.

Start with a design consultation

A 90-minute design consultation with a LiDAR scan of your space, ready to become the 3D model when your project goes ahead. $450, credited toward your design project when you move forward.

Start my designBook a consultationWhatsApp (702) 720-1443