HOW TO

Interior Design for Every Skill Level

Ready to redecorate? These 3 apps can help you plan your project.

When redecorating your house, you generally have three choices: hire a professional (easy but expensive), do it yourself (time-consuming but cheaper), or find something in between. These apps can guide you, whichever path you choose.

Houzz shows you design examples, then connects you with local professionals who can make them a reality.

Option 1: Hire a pro

Houzz comes loaded with decorating tips, more than 16 million (!) photos, a curated store, and the ability to interact with other users who might have just redone their kitchen/bath/elaborate home theater. But the app can also connect you with local home improvement and design professionals (more than 2 million nationwide) who are ready to get your job underway.

Option 2: Do it yourself

Are you up to the task yourself? Start with Planner 5D, which uses augmented reality to help you envision and shape your project before you ever break out the toolbox. Design your room in either 2D or 3D and then tap to experiment with furniture placement, colors, and themes. The app gets you started with templates like Industrial Loft, Office, and Two-Story House. But the magic happens when you jump in and add your own style.

Shop for new pieces in Havenly, then buy them right there in the app.

Option 3: A little from column A, a little from column B

If you’re up for taking on the design yourself but want a little pro support, check out Havenly. Take pictures of your room and send them to the Havenly’s interior designers; they’ll digitize your space, look at your existing decor, and offer options like rearranging your furniture, adding a fresh coat of paint, or tying the room together with statement pieces. Once you decide how to proceed, you can purchase any new items right on Havenly, then get to work yourself.