Furnishing a home is all about balance—both in style and in spending. With so many decisions to make, it’s helpful to know where your investment will have the biggest impact. Not every piece needs to break the bank, and not every bargain is worth the compromise. Here is our perspective on where to prioritize your budget and shop smarter.
Investment pieces
1. Upholstered Seating
Your sofa, sectional, and lounge chairs aren’t just visual anchors in your space—they’re workhorses. These are the pieces you’ll live in: for movie nights, conversations, naps, and guests. Opting for quality upholstery and craftsmanship will pay off in comfort, durability, and timeless style.
2. Custom Drapery
Tailored window treatments can completely transform a room. Custom drapery elevates the space by adding softness, height, and cohesion to your design. Off-the-rack panels often fall short—literally. Well-made drapery is an investment that delivers a polished, high-end look.
3. One-of-a-Kind Art
Art adds soul. A unique, original piece brings character and personality that mass-produced prints simply can’t match. Whether it’s a local artist or a found treasure, investing in artwork you love is always money well spent.
4. Statement Lighting in Main Areas
Lighting is one of the most powerful design tools in a home. A striking fixture over a dining table or in a living room doesn’t just brighten a space—it defines it. Splurge on lighting in high-traffic, high-visibility areas where it can shine (literally and figuratively).
Some of our favorites for investment pieces include Four Hands, McGee & Co, Visual Comfort, and TWOPAGES.
Where to save without sacrificing style
1. Accents and accessories
Decorative items like trays, vases, and throw pillows can be sourced affordably without compromising your aesthetic. These pieces are easy to swap out seasonally or as your style evolves, so keep them flexible and budget-friendly.
2. Rugs in low-traffic areas
While high-quality rugs are worth the investment in busy zones, you can opt for more affordable options in less-used areas like guest bedrooms or hallways. With the right layering and placement, even budget rugs can look elevated.
3. Lighting in secondary spaces
You don’t need to splurge on lighting in every room. Secondary spaces like hallways, laundry rooms, closets, or secondary bedrooms can still shine with budget-friendly fixtures, especially when chosen with intention and style.
Finding the right balance
Lighting and art are great categories for mixing high and low. Pairing a vintage table lamp with a splurge-worthy chandelier, or placing an original painting above a budget-friendly console, creates a layered, curated look that feels authentic and intentional.
Some of our favorites for approachable price points include Lamps Plus, Rugs Direct, Joss & Main, and Pottery Barn.
The key to a beautifully furnished home isn’t just how much you spend—it’s where you spend it. With thoughtful choices and strategic splurges, you can create a home that feels both luxurious and livable.