Designing an 800 square foot apartment on a budget in 2025 means balancing smart planning and affordable tools. Start with affordable online interior design services offering one-hour consults for as low as fifty pounds to sanity-check layouts. Use free or low-cost apps to visualize paint colors and furniture placement before buying. Blend DIY home decor with targeted expert help, focusing spending on impactful decisions rather than just décor. This approach creates a functional, cohesive space that feels personalized without breaking the bank. Begin by testing ideas digitally, then invest in lighting layers and furniture placement to maximize your small space effectively.