Hiring an interior designer is a fantastic investment in creating a cohesive and polished look for your home. That said, there are plenty of ways you can roll up your sleeves to save costs without compromising the overall design. From installation work to hands-on creative touches, here are some DIY projects that complement your designer’s expertise while giving your budget some breathing room.

1. Painting Walls / Ceilings and Installing Wallpaper or Decals

One of the easiest ways to personalize your space and cut down costs is by painting walls and ceilings yourself. Your interior designer can help you select the perfect shades, but the labor can be done on your schedule, saving you hundreds or even thousands of dollars. 

This also includes installing wallpaper. While it can be intimidating, peel-and-stick options are a beginner-friendly way to add personality to your space. Temporary decals are also a great option for renters or those looking for flexible designs.

2. Installing Hardware

Swapping out cabinet knobs, drawer pulls, or door handles is an approachable DIY task. Your designer can recommend stylish options, but you can handle the installation with just a screwdriver.

3. Hanging Art and Window Treatments

While your designer can guide you in selecting and arranging artwork, the actual hanging can be a DIY task. Use tools like a laser level for precise placement and consider gallery wall templates for complex layouts. Installing curtain rods, hanging curtains and installing blinds is another task that can be done with a screwdriver. Just be sure to get the height of the curtain rod the Interior Designer has specified.

Artwork Hanging

• Eye-Level Rule: Center artwork at approximately 57–60 inches from the floor for optimal viewing height.

Window Treatments

• Curtain Placement: Hang curtains 4–6 inches above the window frame and extend rods 6–12 inches beyond each side to make windows appear larger.

4. Light Fixture Installation

If you’re comfortable with basic electrical work (and it’s permitted in your area), you can install new light fixtures like pendants, chandeliers, or sconces. Just make sure you follow safety guidelines, and consult a professional if you’re unsure.

Lighting Placement

• Kitchen Island Pendants: Hang pendants 30–36 inches above the countertop for optimal lighting and visual balance.

• Dining Table Chandeliers: Position the chandelier 30–34 inches above the table in an 8-foot ceiling room, adding 3 inches for every additional foot of ceiling height.

5. Assembling and Placing Furniture

Most furniture arrives flat-packed these days, making assembly a time-consuming task. By tackling this yourself, you’ll save on installation fees while ensuring the pieces align with your designer’s layout plan.

Furniture Spacing

• Living Room Seating: Leave 18 inches between a coffee table and the edge of the sofa for comfortable legroom.

• Dining Chairs: Allow 24 inches of space per person at a dining table for elbow room and comfort.

Area Rugs

• Living Room Rugs: Ensure all front legs of your furniture rest on the rug, or place the rug large enough for all furniture legs to fit on it entirely.

• Bedroom Rugs: The rug should extend at least 18–24 inches around the bed's sides and foot for balance and comfort.

6. Accessorizing Your Space

Adding rugs, throw pillows, and decorative objects is where your personal touch can shine. Use your designer’s guidance for scale, texture, and color combinations, but shop and arrange the details yourself.

Color Proportions

• The 60-30-10 Rule: Design spaces with 60% of a dominant color, 30% of a secondary color, and 10% of an accent color for a balanced look.

By collaborating with your interior designer on the larger vision and completing these DIY tasks, you’ll stretch your budget without sacrificing style. Remember, the key is to focus on tasks that align with your skills and comfort level while leaving the more complex or technical aspects to the professionals.