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, 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 savvy homeowners who want to bring their space to life with confidence.
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