Here are budget-friendly hotel brands and chains (and a few independent examples) known for distinctive, design-forward rooms and public spaces. I’ve included where they’re typically found and a rough price band so you can judge affordability.

Design-forward budget chains & groups

• citizenM — ultra-modern, compact rooms with colorful, modular design, big shared lounges and artful lobbies. Common in major European and North American cities. Typical low-season rates often start around $70–$150/night.
• YOTEL — techy, space-efficient “cabins” with futuristic design, mood lighting and smart features. Found in big airports and city centers (London, New York, Singapore). Price range often $80–200/night depending on city.
• Mama Shelter — playful, eclectic interiors with bold colors, murals and lively restaurants/bars. Mostly in Europe and some US locations. Expect $80–180/night.
• 25hours Hotels — quirky, themed design inspired by neighborhood culture; strong visual identity. Mostly Europe (Berlin, Hamburg, Zurich). Budget-friendly rates often $90–180/night.
• Aloft (by Marriott) — modern, loft-like public spaces, street-art touches and live-music programming at some locations. Widely available; lower-tier rates often $70–140/night.
• Pod / Capsule hotels (various brands) — minimalist, compact sleeping pods with sleek, modern interiors. Found in Asia, major global cities. Very cheap where available: $20–80/night for a Pod.
• Selina — combination hostel/hotel with Instagram-friendly design, co-working, wellness and local art; aimed at digital nomads. Common across Latin America and growing worldwide. Dorms/rooms from $10–60+.
• Generator Hostels — boutique hostel chain with designer common areas, bold interiors and budget private rooms. Found across Europe and the U.S. Prices: dorms $15–40, privates $60–120.
• Graduate Hotels — campus- and city-themed boutique properties near universities; nostalgic, locally inspired design. Usually mid-range but affordable around college towns: $90–180/night.
• Ace Hotel (select locations) — hip, design-led properties that can be affordable in smaller markets; strong local partnerships, vintage/industrial aesthetic. Rates vary widely.

Independent / notable budget options with unique design

• The Hoxton (select locations) — stylish, vintage-modern rooms and lively lobbies; sometimes runs affordable deals in some cities.
• Moxy Hotels (Marriott) — playful, youthful design, compact rooms, social lobbies; aimed at budget travelers in city centers.
• Local boutique guesthouses & design hostels — many cities have small independently run places that punch above their price with creative design (look for “design hostel,” “boutique guesthouse,” or “concept hotel” in searches).

How to find cheap, well-designed hotels

• Filter booking sites for “boutique,” “design hotel,” or brand name (e.g., citizenM, YOTEL) and sort by price.
• Use flexible dates and midweek stays to find lower rates.
• Check last-minute apps (HotelTonight, but many OTA apps now) for flash deals on design hotels.
• Consider smaller cities or neighborhoods outside the center—design hotels there are often cheaper.
• Book nonrefundable rates if your plans are firm—these are often much cheaper.
• Look for package deals or membership discounts (chain loyalty programs, credit card offers).

If you tell me the city or dates you’re looking at, I can find specific, current cheap options with photos and booking links.