9 BUDGET-FRIENDLY INTERIOR DESIGN RESOURCES

Don't want to pay for an interior designer? These are the free and low-cost resources you need for pro-level decor in your home

- Andrea Dean

Professionally designed interiors look put together and polished, boost space and storage, and are completely compatible with your lifestyle. Although hiring an interior designer to plan and oversee a renovation or decorating project reduces stress, saves time and maximises your property's potential, it's a luxury few of us can afford.

However, you can cut costs significantly by going down the DIY route and learning to design like a pro - and there are plenty of accessible, budget-friendly resources to guide you. Whether you're revamping a single room or planning a whole house makeover, here's where to go for help.

1 Colour consultancies

There are so many colour choices that finding the right combination can be overwhelming. That's where colour consultants come in as they provide in-depth advice for each room, based on its size, light, orientation and your likes and dislikes. Some paint and other brands deliver this service, usually for a fee, but it does avoid costly mistakes.

YesColours offers a free 10-minute chat via Zoom, while 30and 60-minute consultations are from £75, and Fired Earth charges from £100 for a home visit or virtual meeting. Little Greene gives video, home or in-store consultations, from £95, and in-home consultations from Fenwick & Tilbrook (within 30 miles of its Norfolk office) and virtual appointments start from £130. To make the most of these sessions, bring in photos and plans or share them in advance.