1. Do as much of the work yourself as you can. Wallpaper removal, light demolition, and cleaning up after subcontractors all take more elbow grease than skill. There’s no sense in paying skilled carpenters their normal hourly rate to push a broom.

2. Instead of using costly marble or stone, choose synthetic materials for floors, countertops, and walls. Today’s laminates, vinyl flooring, ceramic tile, and paint techniques can produce rich-looking surfaces on a modest budget.

3. Instead of having cabinets custom-made, find a line of stock cabinets that you like. Lumberyards carry some styles; your contractor or designer can probably give you literature on many more. Adapt prefabricated cabinets to your needs with easy-to-install storage devices such as wire shelves, retractable baskets, hooks, and drawer dividers.

4. Keep fixture and faucet styles simple. Chrome faucets and basic white fixtures are less expensive than the latest shapes and colors, and they won’t look out of fashion in a decade. Update your decor periodically with more easily changeable accessories, such as wall coverings and window treatments.

5. Leave fixtures where they are or at least keep them against walls that contain existing pipes and vent stacks.

6. If you want a whirlpool tub, look for models that come in standard tub sizes. You’ll save money by replacing the tub you have instead of rearranging the space to fit an oversize tub.

7. Consider hiring a design professional. Despite the additional fees, you may actually save money because professionals can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure that the job is done efficiently.

8. If you have the time, act as your own general contractor. This can save you a substantial contractor’s markup. It’s a demanding and time-consuming job, however, and not one to be taken lightly.

9. Purchase building materials during the winter, when demand—and prices—often are lower. Also take advantage of clearance sales. (This assumes that you can store all your materials in a secure, sheltered place until they’re needed for the project.)

10. Establish your design in detail, and make sure all your materials are available before the first tradespeople arrive. Changes and holdups during construction can increase costs.