A design consultant agreement is a contract between a client and a contractor that provides all terms and conditions necessary to carryout their professional relationship. A design consultant will generally work in graphic, interior, or fashion design and will consult with their clients to produce a solution that best combines form and function. Before they can begin working, both parties will be required to sit down and discuss the nature of the relationship, i.e., what’s the consultant’s job, what are they getting paid, who pays for what expenses, etc. This information and all other legal provisions regarding the hiring of an independent contractor can be entered into the consultant agreement and signed by both parties to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Types of Design Consultants

The following are the most common designer types along with the average salary and hourly rate.

Architectural Design

    • Salary: $79,380 (source: BLS)
    • Hourly Rate: $38.16 (source: BLS)

Concept Design (engineering)

Electrical Design

    • Salary: $63,720 (source: BLS)
    • Hourly Rate: $30.64 (source: BLS)

Graphic / Web Design

    • Salary: $50,370 (source: BLS)
    • Hourly Rate: $24.21 (source: BLS)

Interior Design

    • Salary: $53,370 (source: BLS)
    • Hourly Rate: $25.66 (source: BLS)

Landscaping

    • Salary: $68,230 (source: BLS)
    • Hourly Rate: $32.80 (source: BLS)

Designer Consultant Agreement Template