I tried using Ikea’s $99 interior-designer service. It was an incredible value with just one downside.

We found the service invaluable for planning the overall aesthetic and layout of our home, even if we incorporated some non-Ikea elements into the final design.

It felt like a genuinely impressive resource that delivered high-end results at a fraction of the cost. I loved the professional guidance, detailed planning, and convenience of a ready-made shopping list.

Our designer was a true pro with a great attention to detail. At one point, she even noticed a significant flaw in our kitchen blueprint — a mistake that could’ve cost us thousands of dollars.

Still, it’s worth emphasizing that designers you work with through this service will only recommend Ikea items.

If you prefer expensive items or want pieces from a variety of brands, it might not be the perfect fit. But you can still use the designer’s advice for inspiration and source your own pieces, just as we did.