DESIGN | Design Smart Packages
- Mikki Litzenberger
- Jul 31
- 2 min read
Design Within Reach: How to Upgrade Your Home on a Budget

In times like these—when budgets are tighter and uncertainty looms—it’s completely natural to put home upgrades on the back burner. But making your space more beautiful, functional, and comfortable doesn’t always require a big renovation or a big spend.
Sometimes, it just takes the right guidance.
That’s exactly why we created “Design Smart”—a flexible, hourly design consultation package that gives you professional advice and guidance, without a major commitment.
Design Advice That Works with Your Budget
Even a brief conversation with a professional can offer clarity, reduce stress, and help you avoid common (and costly) mistakes.
Here’s how:
Colour Matters More Than You Think
Paint is one of the most affordable changes you can make, but the wrong colour can lead to frustration and repainting. We help clients choose palettes that work with their light, architecture, and mood—inside and out.
You Don’t Always Need New
You might not need to replace your kitchen cabinets—just repaint them. Often, it's not about what you replace, but what you enhance.
Flow Over Flash
Rearranging your furniture for better function and movement can make a room feel brand new. It’s a simple, cost-free shift that many overlook.
Spend Where It Counts
We often recommend the “high/low” approach: invest in pieces you use every day (like a sofa or faucet), and save on things that are easy to update over time, like lighting or textiles.

Who Benefits from This Approach?
Homeowners preparing to sell
First-time buyers feeling overwhelmed
DIY renovators who need direction
Anyone wanting to feel more settled in their space
Whether you're refreshing a single room or slowly building your forever home, you don’t have to do it all—or do it alone.
A Note on Value, Not Just Aesthetics
Good design isn’t about chasing trends—it’s about creating a space that feels right for you. That means making informed decisions with the resources you have. And sometimes, just one conversation can help you move forward with more confidence and less trial-and-error.
If you’re not sure where to start, start small. Start with a conversation.
Schedule your complimentary discovery call at www.alterds.com