When hiring a painter and decorator in Chelsea, the cost depends on a mix of clear and hidden factors. Property type, finish quality, surface condition, and job scale all play a part. Expect prices to reflect both the prestige of the postcode and the demand for high-end work.
Day Rates vs Fixed Prices
Most professionals in Chelsea quote a day rate or a fixed project price. A typical day rate ranges from £180 to £300, depending on experience and reputation. Top-tier decorators, especially those used to working in period homes or listed buildings, may charge more. Fixed quotes tend to be more common for larger projects or whole-home renovations. These offer clarity but rely on a detailed brief.
Room-by-Room Painting Costs
Painting a single room in Chelsea costs between £500 and £1,200, depending on room size, prep work, and paint type.
Here’s a breakdown:
- Small room (e.g., cloakroom or box bedroom) – £500–£700
- Average double bedroom – £700–£1,000
- Large reception room or master bedroom – £1,000–£1,500
These estimates include walls, ceilings, skirting boards, doors, and window frames. Higher-end projects that use specialist paints, like Farrow & Ball or Little Greene, will push the price up further.
Whole-Home Decorating Costs
For a 2-bedroom flat, complete internal redecoration typically costs £3,000–£6,000. A 4-bedroom terraced house in Chelsea may cost anywhere between £8,000 and £15,000, depending on condition and spec.
Prices rise significantly if:
- Old paint needs stripping
- Walls require filling or skimming
- Woodwork needs extensive sanding
- Decorative elements (e.g., cornices, ceiling roses) need fine detailing
Expect higher rates for listed properties where extra care is needed, particularly when dealing with delicate plasterwork or original features.
Wallpapering and Specialist Finishes
Wallpapering is more expensive than painting, especially using hand-printed or designer paper.
On average:
- Wallpapering a feature wall – £300–£600
- Wallpapering a full room – £700–£1,500
- Specialist finishes (e.g., limewash, polished plaster) – from £100 per m²
These rates cover not only the application but also careful preparation. Uneven walls in older Chelsea homes need lining or smoothing first, which adds to time and cost.
What Affects the Price the Most
Several key elements shape the total cost:
Condition of existing surfaces –
Poor prep means longer hours. Cracks, damp, or flaking paint require full treatment.
Access and parking –
Properties with poor access or controlled parking zones can increase labour time.
Furniture removal –
Some clients handle this; others pay decorators to manage it.
Client expectations –
Demanding, high-spec finishes require more time, especially when multiple coats or custom paint mixes are needed.
A high-end painter and decorator in Chelsea won’t rush. Clean edges, smooth finishes, and tidy workspaces come with time and skill.
Should You Buy the Paint?
Some clients prefer to buy paint themselves to control costs. Others leave it to the decorator, who often secures trade discounts. Be aware: cheaper paint usually means more coats. Premium brands, though pricier, last longer and cover better. Paint for a whole house can cost £500 to £2,000, depending on brand, colour, and quantity.
Conclusion
Chelsea’s property deserves care. Quality decorating isn’t cheap, but it pays off. Expect to invest in precision, longevity, and a smart finish. Whether it’s a single room or a full townhouse, working with a skilled painter and decorator in Chelsea ensures your home looks its best—and stays that way.
