Bali Architect Fee: Honest Price and Estimation (2025)

architect sketching villa design image
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Do you have a dream design for your Bali villa? Before you start building your perfect property, it’s best to count the architectural cost.

Bali is known as the island of art, where there’s a lot of great architectural services who provide excellence service and layout art-style.

But you should know how much this service typically costs to avoid overpaying.

Now, we’re here to break down the real Bali architect fee with you, so you can turn your vision into a reality without any hassle. Let’s dive in!

property investment banner image

Key Takeaways

  • Architect fees in Bali are generally based on Indonesian Architects Association (IAI) guidelines and calculated either from the construction budget or the building area.
  • Building category, complexity, and special design features (like authentic Balinese layouts) can add 5–10% to the fee, while eco-friendly or smart home features can add 10–15%.
  • Standard fees cover conceptual design, development, detailed drawings, and some site supervision, but MEP plans or extensive interior design may cost extra.

Free Download: Bali Property Investment Guide 2025

Cost of Architectural Services in Bali, Indonesia

Source: The Architects Diary

In Indonesia, the cost of architectural services is generally set according to the guidelines of the Indonesian Architects Association (IAI).

The final fee depends on two main factors: the total construction cost and the category of the building type. Both are considered before determining the architect’s service rate.

For the fee paid, clients will receive complete architectural services starting from planning, continuing through development, and including periodic site monitoring.

Read More: How Much Does It Cost to Build a Villa in Bali?

How to Calculate Bali Architect Fee

There are two ways to calculate Bali architectural service fees: based on the construction budget or the building area.

1. Based on Construction Budget

Most architects determine their fees by referring to the project’s construction budget. It’s also important to know the building category, as this will directly affect the applicable rate.

Building categories are divided into five classes, based on the complexity and function of the building: special buildings, social buildings, and Classes 1, 2, and 3.

Each category has a specific percentage rate applied to the total construction cost.

Example:

If you’re building a private residence (Category 3) with a construction budget of Rp 500 million:

Architect rate (Category 3) = 8% × Rp 500,000,000 = Rp 40,000,000

So, with a budget of Rp 500 million, the architect’s fee would be Rp 40 million.

2. Based on Building Area

Another method is to calculate fees per square meter of the building. Architect service rates typically range from Rp 150 to Rp 800,000 per m².

However, actual fees may be higher or lower than these standard rates. This often depends on the architect’s experience, skill level, and portfolio quality.

Read More: Find Your Dream Architect for Your Bali Villa: A Simple Guide

The Cost of “True” Balinese Design

Maison K (8) - bali villa design
Source: Ilot Property Bali

Looking for more than just a plain modern villa? Adding authentic Balinese elements, like the sanga mandala (a nine-chamber spatial layout) or a central courtyard (natah), requires specialized expertise.

Experts estimate this can add 5–10% to the architect’s fee due to the extra complexity and detailed planning involved.

Eco-Friendly and Smart Villas Design Fee

Villas with sustainable features such as reclaimed wood, bamboo structures, and solar power systems are increasingly popular.

While these can raise your initial Balinese architecture cost by 10–15%, they often deliver higher rental income and stronger returns in the long run.

The same applies to “smart homes” with automated lighting, security systems, and climate control (which is now a “must-have” in the luxury rental market).

Read More: Building Your Dream Villa in Bali? Get Design Inspiration with These 5 Easy Steps!

What’s Included in an Architect Fee (And What’s Not)?

A standard Bali architect’s fee typically covers the main design stages: conceptual design, design development, and detailed construction drawings.

It usually includes some site supervision to ensure the builders follow the plan.

However, specialized drawings for Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) systems or extensive interior design may come at an additional cost. Always clarify this upfront to avoid confusion.

Read More: The 6 Biggest Do’s and Don’ts When Buying Property in Bali

FAQ

1. Can you negotiate architect fees?

Some company may open for negotiation. However, if you lower the fees, the architect should also reduce their scope of work accordingly. It’s better to negotiate each stage based on what matters most to you.

2. What is a fixed fee for an architect?

A fixed fee is calculated as a percentage of the estimated construction cost, typically ranging from 8% to 12% for a complete architectural service.

3. How long does it take for an architect to draw up plans?

The timeline varies depending on the project, but for smaller residential works like renovations or extensions, it usually takes around 3 to 6 months.

    Free Consultation with Our Award-Winning Bali Architect

    In conclusion, every property is unique—from its design to the way it’s built. 

    That’s why it’s smart to consult with an architect before taking the next step, so you can avoid costly overruns and budget surprises.

    If you need guidance or simply want an initial chat, our team is here for you.

    Our award-winning architecture team will help you with everything—from designing a villa that reflects your personal style and values, calculating costs that fit your budget, to creating a building plan that delivers the best returns.

    Click the button below to claim your free, no-obligation consultation. Let’s make your dream villa a reality together.

    Want to start an investment property in Bali?

    Talk to our professional real estate experts and get personalized information tailored to your investment needs in Bali.

    Bali villa realty By ilot property

    Check our villa & land listings!

    Find out your luxurious villa in the best locations in Bali. You can find a Bali villa with beach or ricefield views, whichever you like. The best locations for your property that hand you gains over time.

    Your Guide Book is Ready to Download

    Click the button below and go through the Guide Book which explains everything you need to know about investing in Bali

    Ilot Property Bali Logo
    ILOT PROPERTY BALI
    Comprehensive Property Services
    ×
    Hi, how can we help you?
    WhatsApp Icon

    Get Your Free Guide to Property Investment in Bali

    Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.