Designing a home on a budget
- The International
- 2 hours ago
- 3 min read
With budget and beauty working hand in hand, Maja de Silva demonstrates how smart choices create homes that feel personal, balanced, and enduring.
Photographs: Maja de Silva
Text: Maja de Silva
Many people believe that creating a beautiful home costs a fortune. They flip through glossy magazines, scroll endlessly online, and dream about stunning interiors that feel forever out of reach. There’s also a common belief that hiring an interior designer costs “an arm and a leg,” that such services are reserved only for those with unlimited budgets. As a professional in this field, I understand where these assumptions come from—but they are outdated.
Today, many people have stable careers and can afford the right guidance. Yes, setting up your space requires an investment, but thoughtful planning of your layout and budget helps you avoid costly mistakes and unnecessary disappointments. You’re going to spend money on your home anyway—so why not have someone by your side who understands the “how” and the “where,” saving you precious time and energy?
Designing your home is not an expense; it’s an investment in your everyday life. It’s your nest—the place where you live, rest, recharge, and connect with family and friends. Your surroundings influence your mood and energy daily. In fact, we now spend more than 60% of our waking hours at home, thanks to remote work, home education, and the shift of dining and entertainment into our own spaces.
“There’s no place like home.” It’s where we feel safest and most ourselves. We bring back souvenirs from our travels to decorate them. We recreate favourite restaurant recipes in our kitchens. We all have that special “corner” we gravitate toward. We long for slow Sundays and the comfort of returning home after a busy day.
“Designing your space doesn’t mean buying the most expensive furniture to replicate a showroom.”
Create a home that reflects you, not the showroom
Designing your space doesn’t mean buying the most expensive furniture to replicate a showroom. With over 20 years of experience in interior architecture, I’ve learned that true beauty lies in understanding your style, preferred colours, and proportions. Good proportions are everything. A lamp, for example, can transform a console table—if balanced thoughtfully with books, art, texture, and colour. Work with composition. Make it personal. Have fun creating a home that truly reflects you.
Today’s home market is bigger than ever. You can buy brand-new or secondhand, shop in-store or online, and discover vintage treasures or modern designs with a single click. The possibilities truly are endless. And yet, with so many options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure how to make it all come together beautifully.
My advice? Follow your own style. Choose pieces you genuinely love instead of buying something simply because it’s on sale or trending. Be intentional and conscious with your decisions. Thoughtful choices are not only better for your home and your budget—they’re also kinder to the environment. When you invest in items that truly resonate with you, you’re less likely to replace them a year later.
“Designing your home is not an expense; it’s an investment in your everyday life.”
Renovation without the overwhelm: Small changes, big impact
But what about larger projects, like renovating a bathroom? How can you stay within budget without sacrificing style? Start by being realistic about what you can afford right now. Perhaps tearing down walls or replacing all the tiles isn’t an option—and that’s perfectly fine. If the tiles feel outdated, paint them. Yes, even shower and floor tiles can be painted today with the right products. It’s a game-changer.
Prioritise what truly matters. Invest in quality water fixtures that won’t need replacing next year. Upgrade elements that make an impact without costing a fortune—like a beautiful mirror, a stylish lamp, or elegant cabinet handles. Small details can completely refresh a space. Add baskets to organise everyday items, consider practical storage solutions, and bring warmth with a soft rug underfoot instead of an old towel. A few plants and candles can instantly elevate the atmosphere.
The same principles apply to an old kitchen. Paint cabinets, tiles, and walls in colours you love. Replace the countertop if the budget allows, and update hardware for a fresh look. Most importantly, rethink your lighting—good lighting is essential, especially in the kitchen.
Renovation doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive. It’s about smart ideas, confident decisions, and taking the first step toward creating a home that truly feels like yours.
