Interior Designer vs DIY: When Should You Hire a Professional?

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11 Mar

Introduction

When it comes to renovating your home, you have two choices: hire an interior designer or do it yourself (DIY). While DIY can be tempting, especially with endless online inspiration, it often comes with hidden costs, unexpected challenges, and overwhelming decisions.

At Kaas Interiors, we know that a professional interior designer can streamline the process, avoid costly mistakes, and help you achieve a stunning, functional home. But when should you hire a designer, and when can you handle a project on your own? This guide will help you decide.

When Does DIY Interior Design Make Sense?

A DIY approach can work for smaller, low-risk projects where professional expertise isn’t essential. Consider DIY if:

1. You’re Making Minor, Cosmetic Updates

Painting walls or refreshing finishes
Updating hardware (cabinet handles, taps, light switches)
Simple decor swaps like lighting fixtures

2. You Have Experience in Design & Renovation

You understand spatial planning, material selection, and colour coordination
You’re confident working with trades people, suppliers, and project management

3. You Have the Time to Plan & Manage the Project

DIY projects require research, sourcing materials, scheduling deliveries, and overseeing installation. If you’re comfortable dedicating the time, DIY might be an option.

4. Your Budget is Extremely Limited

If hiring a designer isn’t feasible right now, focus on essential upgrades that improve functionality while saving for professional guidance in the future.

DIY Tip: Start small and focus on foundational improvements rather than extensive overhauls.

When Should You Hire an Interior Designer?

For major renovations, complex projects, or high-value improvements, an interior designer is the best investment. Here’s when you should bring in a professional:

1. When You Want to Avoid Expensive Mistakes

Many homeowners believe DIY saves money, but mistakes often cost more to fix than hiring a designer from the start.

Buying furniture or fixtures that don’t fit your space
Selecting the wrong materials that wear out quickly
Poor space planning that reduces functionality
Misjudging renovation costs, leading to budget overruns

A professional ensures every decision is strategic, avoiding costly do-overs.

2. When You’re Renovating a Kitchen or Bathroom

Kitchens and bathrooms are high-stakes renovations that require expert planning. A designer will:
Maximise space efficiency with optimal layouts
Select durable, high-quality materials suited for wet areas
Ensure the correct placement of plumbing & electrical work
Work with trusted trades people to avoid costly rework

Kaas Interiors specialises in kitchen and bathroom renovations, ensuring a flawless result.

3. When You Need Custom Joinery or Built-In Solutions

Bespoke cabinetry, built-in storage, and custom furniture require precision and expert planning. Designers help you:

Create functional storage that complements your home
Optimise awkward spaces with custom joinery
Ensure a high-end, seamless look with professional detailing

Kaas Interiors delivers expertly designed, tailor-made joinery solutions for your space.

4. When You Want a Cohesive, Timeless Design

Many DIY projects result in mismatched finishes, clashing materials, and disjointed layouts because they lack an overall vision. A designer ensures:

A unified look with well-coordinated materials, colours, and textures
A balance between aesthetics and practicality
Future-proofing your design for long-term appeal

Our expertise ensures your home is both stylish and highly functional.

5. When You Want a Stress-Free Process

Renovating involves countless decisions, supplier coordination, and managing timelines. An interior designer:

Handles all the details (so you don’t have to)
Manages the project efficiently, preventing delays and miscommunication
Sources high-quality materials while staying within your budget

Kaas Interiors streamlines the process, saving you time and frustration.

walnut pill shaped island kitchen with natural marble top

How an Interior Designer Actually Saves You Money

Many people assume hiring a designer is an extra expense, but in reality, it can save money in the long run. Here’s how:

1. Preventing Expensive Mistakes

A designer ensures everything—from materials to layout decisions—is correct the first time, reducing the risk of costly errors.

2. Access to Trade Discounts

Designers often have exclusive pricing on materials, fittings, and custom pieces—savings that can offset design fees.

3. Budget Optimisation

An experienced designer knows where to invest and where to cut costs, ensuring you get the best value.

4. Increasing Home Value

A well-designed home boosts property value, making it a long-term financial investment.

Want to get the best value for your renovation budget? Book a free consultation today.

Conclusion: DIY vs. Hiring an Interior Designer—What’s Right for You?

DIY is a great option if:

You’re making small, cosmetic updates
You have experience in design & renovation
You have time to plan, source, and oversee the project
Your budget is too limited for professional guidance

Hire an interior designer if:

You want to avoid costly mistakes
You’re renovating a kitchen or bathroom
You need custom joinery or built-in solutions
You want a cohesive, functional, and high-end home
You want to save time and avoid stress
You want to leverage our extensive and verified trade network

At Kaas Interiors, we remove the guesswork, stress, and wasted effort from your home renovation. With expert planning, precise execution, and tailored solutions, we turn your vision into a reality.

Let’s create a home you love! Schedule your free consultation today and let’s get started.