Prescribing Style: Interior Design Tips for the Budget-Savvy Medical Professional
Authored by Aditi Pemmaraju J.D.
Delayed gratification may be part of life while going through medical training, but that doesn’t
mean you can’t find budget-friendly ways to make your living space more appealing to the eye.
Having come out the other side of the journey, I’m happy to share some interior design tips and
tricks I learned along the way.Declutter
If you need a free option to start, decluttering is your best bet. Not only does this create a
positive energy flow, but a minimalist look automatically lends any room an elevated,
design-magazine-worthy look.Go Thrifting
Thrifting is all the rage with Gen Z, and for good reason. You never know what gems you can
find at resale shops. Another easy way to find gently used pieces is to buy from graduating
medical students, residents, and fellows. Don’t forget to check out the undergraduate and
graduate school postings, too.Start Small
If you have extra funds, consider prioritizing one room or area of your apartment or home. Focus
on making your bedroom an oasis or creating a special nook. I love shopping at stores like
Wayfair for upholstered beds, occasional chairs, and other items that have an upscale look but
won’t burn a hole in your wallet.Stick to Neutrals
When buying larger furniture pieces, opt for neutral-colored sofas with clean lines and change
out throw pillows/blankets to stay on trend and season. This will increase the longevity of the
big-ticket items, making them easy to sell or move with you.
Lighten Things UpLighting doesn’t have to mean costly chandeliers. Switching to energy-efficient LED bulbs in
different temperatures (daylight, warm, etc.) can enhance the entire feel of a room.Go Green
Greenery easily infuses life and color into any space. Consider low-maintenance plants like
succulents, snake plants, or monstera. Then, place them in inexpensive planters you can find at
Target, Amazon, etc., for a wow factor that won’t break the bank.
Final ThoughtsWhile it’s important to stick to a budget during the medical training years, having a haven at the
end of those long call stretches is also essential. With some creativity, you can have a clean and
charming space to come home to!
Aditi Pemmaraju is one of our Houston partners. Aditi met her husband prior to his medical training and has experienced the all the medical training milestones with him. Outside of real estate, Aditi loves exploring national parks with her family, running or trying a new local restaurant.
