Interior Design on a Budget: Where to Splurge vs. Save
A well-designed home doesn’t have to break the bank. The key is knowing where to invest — and where to scale back — so that your space still feels elevated, functional, and uniquely you.
As a designer, I help clients make wise, intentional choices every day. Whether you're decorating your entire home or just one room, here’s how to strike the right balance between splurging and saving - with zero regret.
SPLURGE: Your Anchor Pieces
Certain items have a significant visual and functional impact — and they're worth investing in.
🛋️ Sofa or Main Seating
You use it every day. A quality sofa holds its shape, feels comfortable, and lasts for years. Choose classic shapes and durable fabrics. I always tell clients: This is where you’ll feel the most significant difference over time.
🖼️ Art or Statement Mirror
Large-scale art or a beautiful mirror adds depth, personality, and polish to a space. These pieces often become focal points — so don’t be afraid to spend a little more on something that makes your space feel finished.
🧺 Rug (in key rooms)
An undersized or subpar rug can detract from the overall appearance of a room. Look for rugs with the correct scale and texture. Natural fibers or hand-knotted styles are worth the splurge in high-traffic areas. It’s one of those foundational pieces I always budget for.
SAVE: Supporting Players
Not every item in your room needs to be a designer-level investment. Here's where to scale back:
🪑 Side Tables + Ottomans
These don’t get as much wear and are easier to swap out later. Affordable versions can still look high-end when styled well. I often use budget-friendly ones in client installs and dress them up with layered accessories.
🕯️ Decor + Trendy Accents
Think pillows, vases, or the “it” color of the year. These pieces can be adjusted, thought of seasonally, or updated when your style changes. I recommend saving here so you can adapt your style seasonally or when your preferences change. And you and your style evolve.
💡 Table Lamps or Accessories
You can find great-looking lighting and decor at a fraction of the cost if you focus on scale and shape over brand names. I’ve used affordable lamps that look three times their price — it’s all in the styling.
MIX HIGH + LOW FOR A DESIGNER LOOK
Designers are constantly blending investment pieces with budget finds. That’s what creates a layered, lived-in space — one that doesn’t look overly matched or impersonal.
Use contrast to your advantage:
Pair a luxe velvet sofa with a simple rattan side table
Hang an oversized art piece above an IKEA console
Combine a vintage rug with modern lighting
These unexpected pairings make a room feel curated — not cookie-cutter.
BONUS TIP: Let the Concept Board Do the Work
One of the easiest ways to strike that splurge/save balance? Start with a curated concept board. It gives you:
A cohesive design plan
A blend of price points
Room to swap in items without losing the look
I design every board with real-life budgets in mind, so you can create something beautiful without having to start from scratch.
➡️ Explore Curated Concept Boards
💻 Want Virtual Design Support?
If you're craving a professional touch, I offer virtual design services tailored for DIY homeowners who want to bring their space to life with confidence.
➡️ Explore Virtual Design Services