We all have one. That spare bedroom where all the junk ends up. The bathroom desperately in need of an update. The chaotic home office. Living with such spaces day after day can become overwhelming. But you don’t have to spend overwhelming amounts of cash to make them vibrant, pleasing living spaces again.
In this slideshow, we look at how professional designers tackled five common problem spaces, using little money but plenty of creative techniques. The price for each project includes costs of materials only, except where noted. See if the transformations inspire you to take on a your own daunting project.

By Lisa Dixon

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GREAT ROOM MAKEOVERS YOU CAN AFFORD

Before: This room in the lower level of a condo "felt small, cramped and cold," says designer Christine Suzuki. Books and photos spilled out of boxes on the floor. The tall, skinny closet, which was opened infrequently, hogged valuable space.

The owners needed more room for storing books, papers and other items, plus a large writing desk.

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Office Clutter...

Cost of redesign: $4,395 (including installation)
Design firm: Christine S. Suzuki & Associates,
Seattle, Wash.

After: Voila. Custom cabinetry worked wonders here. Designer Suzuki removed the white closet door and incorporated the depth of the closet into the home office design. The extra-deep space neatly accommodates a TV, printer and filing cabinet.

The shelving takes full advantage of the height of the ceiling, providing storage for office supplies and books. The red paint creates warmth and dramatically sets off the neutral color of the cabinetry. A leather writing surface offers an extra touch of elegance.

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...To Functional Home Office

Before: This little-used loft had become a dumping ground for boxes, Christmas wrapping paper and other items. Out of sight, out of mind, or so the saying goes. But the owners wanted to transform this space into a relaxing sitting room for guests, with a small office area for their own use.

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From Junk Room...

Cost of redesign: About $2,500
Design firm: LB Designs, Salisbury, Mass.

After: Designer Lori Brasseur paired dark woods with deep colors to make the space feel warm and inviting. A new comfy chaise and bookcases create a nook for reading and relaxing. Breezy sheers topped with a smart valance take full advantage of the large windows. The existing sofa, fitted with a slipcover, is grouped with a coordinating chair on the other side of the room. A new wooden desk, not shown, fits neatly under a dormer window.

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...To Cozy Retreat