Essential Decor Elements You Can Avoid Expensive, Designer Recommendations, Design Professionals Suggest
Save money on decor without compromising style! Here's a list of 30 affordable home items, as suggested by seasoned interior designers. Let's dive in!
Rugs
Pricey Persian, hand-knotted, and antique oriental rugs can match a mortgage payment, but they are not always necessary. Designer Kate Dawson recommends stores like Wayfair or Rugs USA for great, less expensive rug options. Since most people change their home decor every five to six years, it's smarter to spend less initially and have more flexibility for future changes.
Curtains and Rods
High-end window treatments can cost thousands, but they're not essential. Stores like Anthropologie and Etsy offer plenty of budget-friendly options for curtain rods and panels. If your windows aren't standard sizes, you can purchase larger curtains and have them hemmed at a local tailor for a fraction of the custom cost.
Designer Throw Pillows
Designer throw pillows can cost upwards of $250, but you can find beautiful alternatives at HomeGoods, HomeSense, or TJ Maxx. If you adore a high-end fabric, many retailers will sell it by the yard or find a similar fabric at a fabric store. You can then create custom pillows for a smaller price.
Mass-Produced Artwork
While it's essential to decorate your walls, overpriced mass-produced artwork is common. Scour thrift stores, community art shows, and online art marketplaces like Minted for affordable yet unique pieces that reflect your aesthetic.
Seasonal Decor
Expensive seasonal decor may not be worth the investment, especially if you only use it for a short period. Holland suggests shopping post-holiday sales for decorative items suitable for various seasons, like a red tablecloth that works well during Christmas, Independence Day, and Valentine's Day.
Hardware
High-end hardware can significantly impact your budget for a kitchen or bathroom refresh. Instead, opt for budget-friendly options like San Diego Hardware Company, Rejuvenation, and Plank Hardware. If you're really budget-conscious, consider Amazon's hardware multipacks for a more affordable alternative.
Sconces
Like lighting, sconces can be pricey, but affordable options are available. Deana Lenz of Deana Lenz Interiors recommends stores like Lulu and Georgia for budget-friendly sconces that offer unique designs at affordable prices.
Coffee Table Books
Most high-end coffee table books are expensive, but pre-owned versions are available on Amazon for a fraction of the original price. You can also find used coffee table books at garage sales, estate sales, and thrift shops.
To Sum Up
Different interior designers have varying opinions on whether certain decorative items are worth the splurge. It's essential to consider each item's quality, its fit with the overall design, and its ability to enhance the room's functionality and aesthetic appeal. Luxury interior designers often emphasize quality over quantity, ensuring that each element contributes to the homeowner's vision and lifestyle.
- According to designer Kate Dawson, stores like Wayfair or Rugs USA offer affordable rug options that can save money without compromising style.
- For budget-friendly curtain rods and panels, stores such as Anthropologie and Etsy are recommended by interior designers.
- Beautiful alternative designer throw pillows can be found at HomeGoods, HomeSense, or TJ Maxx, as suggested by these designers.
- Scouring thrift stores, community art shows, and online art marketplaces like Minted can help find affordable yet unique pieces of artwork, as an alternative to overpriced mass-produced artwork.
