It is and yet it isn't. Interior design is very easy if you plan what you are going to do. If you don't plan, then you end up with a hodge-podge of different ideas that don't work together. The home design shows don't show you the many hours of work it took behind the scenes to create that gorgeous space.

Fortunately, budget design planning is not all that hard. Take your living room for example. If something about doesn't seem right, try to figure out what the problem is? Is the lighting not quite right. Is there not enough seating? Does it always seem to be cluttered? Once you've figured out the problem, try to address it. If lighting is the problem, try moving the lighting to where it's most beneficial or buy a new fixture or window treatments. Try moving the furniture around to where it is most useful. You'll be amazed at what simple changes can do.

Try plotting out the room on graph paper. It's fun to cut out replicas of your furniture and move them around on the grid until they are in the perfect spot. It's easier to make changes on a piece of paper than by moving a heavy sofa for the tenth time.

Sometimes there's nothing really wrong with a space but you just want a change. In that case, check out the many magazines on home design. You might find a fresh new style that is exactly what you are looking for. Read the buyer's guide in each issue to find out where to get the exact product or be adventurous and try to approximate it on your own.

Changing your rooms look is easily accomplished with the proverbial coat of paint. A change in color can really make a room seem larger or smaller. Also, try putting up a new picture or mirror. Add some throw pillows or a blanket to add a shot of color. Paint departments and paint stores have thousands of color swatches so you can experiment with color combinations without having to break the budget.

When you do commit to a paint color, plan on using two coats. It's better to be safe than sorry. Even if you don't use both coats, you'll feel better having the paint on hand for life's inevitable accidents.

By following these simple steps and planning ahead, you can be your own interior designer. You'll have fun and you will enjoy seeing your home in a whole new light without spending a ton of cash.