The Smart (and Stylish) Way to Spend Money on Your Home
Designing your home is an investment—but let’s be real, not every splurge is worth it. We’ve all seen those overpriced, impractical designer pieces that look stunning but don’t actually improve how a space functions. On the flip side, not every budget-friendly option is a mistake. Some areas deserve the extra spend, while others are easy to save on without sacrificing style. Here’s your designer-approved guide to making smart, stylish choices that will stand the test of time.
Splurge: Custom Drapery & Window Treatments
Nothing elevates a space like perfectly tailored drapery. Custom window treatments add instant luxury, create a polished, high-end look, and provide that dreamy, hotel-like ambiance in a home. Plus, they’re functional—blackout lining in a bedroom or sheer linen in a sun-drenched space makes all the difference. If custom isn’t in the budget, opt for high-quality pre-made panels and have them professionally hemmed to just kiss the floor. No puddling. No awkward high-water curtains. Just crisp, designer-approved elegance.
Save: Trendy Statement Pieces
Trends are fun, but they’re fleeting. (RIP to all the boucle furniture that’s already starting to feel overdone.) If you’re itching for a bold sculptural table, a funky accent chair, or an of-the-moment color, go for a budget-friendly version. That way, when the trend fizzles out, you won’t feel guilty swapping it for something fresh. A high-low mix is the secret to a home that looks curated but not overly “of the moment.”
Splurge: Lighting (Especially Overhead Fixtures)
Lighting is one of those sneaky elements that separates a builder-basic home from a designer-level space. A well-placed statement chandelier, sculptural sconces, or oversized pendants can shift the entire mood of a room. Plus, quality lighting often has better materials and finishes, so it ages beautifully. If you’re on a budget, start by upgrading the most visible fixtures—entryways, dining rooms, and above the kitchen island. Swapping out basic flush mounts for something more intentional is an instant upgrade.
Save: Decor Accessories
Here’s the trick: Keep your foundation pieces classic and let your accessories do the seasonal heavy lifting. Decorative vases, trays, books, and pillows are areas where you can experiment without a huge financial commitment. If you love a pop of color or a specific trend (hello, checkerboard patterns), integrate it through smaller decor moments that can be easily swapped when your style evolves.
Splurge: A Really Good Sofa
The sofa is the heart of the living room, and a cheap one will betray you. Over time, low-quality sofas start to sag, the fabric pills, and the cushions lose their shape. A well-made, well-structured sofa with high-performance fabric will last for years and save you from the dreaded “fluffing battle” that happens with low-quality cushions.
Save: Side Tables & Accent Furniture
Unlike a sofa or bed, your side tables don’t take the same level of wear and tear. This is an area where you can go budget-friendly without much risk. A sleek, affordable marble or wood side table from a retailer like CB2 or West Elm can look just as high-end as a custom version—no one will ever know the difference.
The Bottom Line? Invest in What Lasts
The key to a home that feels effortlessly stylish (without endless regret) is knowing where to invest and where to have fun. If something gets heavy use—like a sofa, dining table, or light fixture—invest in quality. If it’s something that’s purely aesthetic or likely to evolve with trends, keep it flexible. Your home should feel curated but not overly precious, sophisticated yet lived-in. Spend wisely, and your space will feel just as good as it looks.
our Picks for Smart Home Investments:
Here are some designer-approved, high-low mix pieces to upgrade your home effortlessly:
Splurge: Custom linen drapes with blackout lining
Save: Textured throw pillows in seasonal colors
Splurge: A sculptural pendant light for the dining room
Save: A trendy checkerboard area rug
Splurge: A high-performance fabric sofa
Save: A stylish, affordable acrylic coffee table
Splurge: An oversized floor mirror to open up your space
Save: A ceramic statement vase for easy styling