How to feather your nest without breaking the bank

We all want our homes to be welcoming and have a budget with which to achieve this. Adele Cardani asks top designers how we can get maximum impact from the minimum outlay

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Thinking about giving your home a facelift? Whether you’re dreaming of a sleek new kitchen and a spa-like bathroom, or just want to boost your property’s value, knowing where to put your money can make all the difference.

The truth is, not every upgrade delivers the same return – and some budget-friendly swaps can have just as much impact as high-end splurges. We’ve consulted a handful of leading interior designers and property experts, asking them to break down the smartest places to splash out and where to budget when transforming your space.

Prioritise what pays off

“Focus on areas that provide the most return on investment and improve the overall functionality and aesthetics of the home,” says property developer and interior designer Marta de Sousa.

“The kitchen should be a top priority as it’s central to any home and has a high impact on property value. I recommend saving on cabinetry – simply add beautiful custom fronts to basic cabinets from an affordable supplier like Ikea. But invest in good composite stone countertops, such as quartz, that will effortlessly withstand years of heavy wear and tear.”