That’s a crucial question 👍 — because in luxury interiors, finishes like Italian marble, PU polish, veneers, imported fittings, designer lighting often see price fluctuations due to imports, exchange rates, supply issues, and even vendor markups. If this isn’t managed carefully, clients in Delhi NCR can see budgets shoot up 15–25% mid-project.

✅ How a Good Designer Should Manage Cost Escalation

Table of Contents

🔹 1. Locking Prices with Vendors Early

Once material is selected, designer should block stock & freeze price with advance payment.
Example: Imported marble or veneer — lock slabs upfront instead of waiting till execution.

🔹 2. Multiple Brand Options

Always provide budget, premium, and luxury alternatives for the same item.
If a preferred finish becomes costlier, you can switch to a backup without derailing design.

🔹 3. Detailed BOQ with Brand & Rate

BOQ should list brand, finish, and locked rate.
Escalation clause: “Rates valid for 60 days from BOQ approval; thereafter subject to vendor increase.”

🔹 4. Client Approvals Before Upgrades

Designer should not change from laminate → veneer or granite → Italian marble without written approval & revised estimate.
Keeps control in your hands.

🔹 5. Value Engineering if Prices Jump

If Italian marble shoots up, suggest engineered quartz/nano stone.
If premium veneer rises, suggest textured laminate or engineered veneer.
👉 Luxury look, but controlled cost.

🔹 6. Vendor Tie-Ups & Discounts

Established designers have tie-ups → often get 5–15% discount from luxury vendors.
You should ask if discounts are passed on or absorbed as markup.

💡 What You Should Ask Your Designer

How do you lock material prices once I approve finishes?
Do you include an escalation clause in the BOQ/contract?
Do you give alternative options if luxury material price rises?
Do you pass on vendor discounts or keep them?
Can you give me a buffer percentage I should keep aside for possible escalation?

⚠️ Red Flags

Designer says “Luxury finishes can’t be predicted, you’ll pay whatever market rate is” 🚩.
BOQ only lists “Italian marble” without brand, grade, or rate → leaves room for arbitrary cost increase.
No escalation clause in contract.

✅ Pro Tip

For luxury homes, keep a 10–15% buffer in budget for material escalation.
Always approve & lock major materials within 30–45 days of starting project.
Ask designer to maintain a Material Selection Sheet with brand, vendor, rate, and order date.

👉 Would you like me to draft a Sample Cost Escalation Clause (contract-ready text) that ensures any price hikes on luxury materials are either locked in advance, or require your written approval before billing?

How do you manage cost escalation on luxury materials?