My 2-BHK interiors under ₹5 Lakhs
When I first set out to design my 2 BHK apartment in India, the quotes I received were enough to give me a mini heart attack. Everyone said I needed at least ₹8–10 lakhs for a decent job. But I stuck to my guns and did it all for under ₹5 lakhs — without compromising on quality or aesthetics.
Here’s how I made it happen, one room at a time, and the lessons I learned along the way.
🛋️ Living Room (₹85,000)
- TV unit: Modular laminate unit with basic storage (₹25,000)
- Sofa: 3-seater fabric sofa from a local manufacturer (₹28,000)
- Center table: MDF with glass top (₹8,000)
- Lighting & curtains: Warm lighting and readymade curtains (₹10,000)
- Wall paint + small decor: Feature wall + 2-3 decor pieces (₹14,000)
Tip: Skip false ceilings and wallpaper. Opt for DIY paint techniques and soft furnishings to add personality.
🍽️ Kitchen (₹95,000)
- Base & wall cabinets: Laminated BWP plywood, modular (₹70,000)
- Tiling & electricals: Minor electrical changes + wall tiles (₹10,000)
- Appliances: Chimney + gas hob (₹15,000)
Hack: Go for BWP ply in the wet areas, but avoid unnecessary accessories like corner units, which eat into budget fast.
🛏️ Master Bedroom (₹1,10,000)
- Wardrobe: Sliding-door wardrobe (6ft) in laminate finish (₹65,000)
- Bed: Queen size with box storage (₹30,000)
- Wall paint & curtains: Pastel shade + blackout curtains (₹10,000)
- Side tables & decor: Compact side units + artwork (₹5,000)
Lesson: Sliding wardrobes are more space-efficient. Avoid mirrored shutters; they cost more and need cleaning often.
🛏️ Guest Bedroom / Kids Room (₹85,000)
- Wardrobe: Hinged wardrobe (₹45,000)
- Bed: Single bed with storage (₹25,000)
- Curtains, paint & shelf: ₹15,000
Pro Tip: Use lighter shades and multi-use furniture if it’s a kids’ room or guest area. Think long term.
🚿 Bathrooms (2) (₹60,000)
- Storage: Vanity under basin + mirror cabinets (₹20,000)
- Accessories: Towel holders, shelves, basic fittings (₹10,000)
- Geysers & minor work: ₹30,000
Hack: Wall-mounted accessories and mirrors can enhance space without a big expense.
🏠 Other Essentials (₹60,000)
- Entrance unit & shoe rack: ₹10,000
- Lighting (full house): LED ceiling lights, warm lights (₹20,000)
- Curtains, rods, fans: ₹30,000
Savings Tip: Buy all fans and lights in one go for wholesale discounts.
✅ Final Cost Breakdown:
| Room / Area | Spent (INR) |
|---|---|
| Living Room | 85,000 |
| Kitchen | 95,000 |
| Master Bedroom | 1,10,000 |
| Guest/Kids Bedroom | 85,000 |
| Bathrooms (2) | 60,000 |
| Other Essentials | 60,000 |
| Total | 4,95,000 |
Lessons I Learned
- Compromise smartly: Don’t spend on aesthetics until functionality is locked.
- Local vendors > showrooms: Quality is similar, prices are better.
- Mix and match: Use a combo of modular and custom carpentry to save costs.
- Plan like a project manager: List every item, compare quotes, and track every rupee.
Is It Possible?
Yes – but it takes effort. You can achieve stylish, functional interiors under ₹5 lakhs for a 2 BHK, especially if you:
- Avoid luxury finishes
- Source locally
- Take a phased approach
Harish Yadav is the founder of Interio Group App. It is an Home-Interiors Marketplace where customers can hire Interior businesses and designers directly. Customers can get quotes for their interior needs.