Interior designers excel at creating lovely interior spaces, but they rarely have an unlimited budget. Interior designers understand what items are worthwhile investments and which are not. These design professionals frequently prioritize long-term investments and save money by avoiding trends that will quickly fade or design elements that make it difficult to tell what is expensive and what is not. Their expertise can assist you in designing interiors that are not only beautiful but also functional and comfortable, ensuring that they remain relevant for many years to come.
Interior designers understand that spending money wisely is an important part of creating an effective interior design. This means that they prioritize spending more of their budget on items where the difference is noticeable and less money on elements where the difference is insignificant to the casual observer.
Throw Pillows
Throw pillows are an easy way to update a space, but interior designers know that you don’t have to spend a fortune on them to make an amazing design. Often the difference between an expensive throw pillow and a more budget-friendly one is not noticeable when they are styled with care.
To create a sophisticated and curated look without blowing your budget, consider pillows with a cohesive color palette, pattern, or texture that complements the aesthetic of the room. Look for high-quality fabrics like linen or velvet at discount stores and pair them with down or down-alternative inserts to make them feel luxe. Adding variety using pillows of different sizes and shapes to create visual interest and depth.
Rugs
The element that can tie an entire room together is a carefully chosen area rug. Rugs can be expensive, but you do not always have to spend a lot of money to find a rug that works well in your space. Premium rugs are made of silk or hand-knotted wool, but many low-cost options have a similar look or use other materials that would work well in your space. Look for rugs that feature synthetic blends or machine-crafted wool rugs that are right for your budget. If you need a large area rug, consider layering rugs and using a less expensive option on the bottom and a higher-quality but smaller rug on the top.
Rugs are subjected to a lot of wear and tear, so it is worth balancing quality and cost and looking for an option that has good construction and will last while remaining at or below your price point.
Mirrors
One of the most powerful elements in an interior designer’s arsenal for creating light and the feeling of spaciousness is mirrors. Mirrors with classic but spare frames can offer the same effect as more expensive mirrors. Designers on a budget will opt for mirrors with sleek, simple frames in matte black, gold, or wood. Choose oversized mirrors to create a more opulent effect.
Basic Lighting Features
Designer light fixtures often come with a hefty price tag, but there are many affordable lights that can provide the same aesthetic impact. A good strategy is to select lights that have a timeless appearance, clean lines, and are made of high quality materials. Budget-friendly options in simple, elegant styles, such as classic pendant lights, sconces, or recessed lighting, can leave you with more money to spend on that designer chandelier you have been eyeing.
Remember to use all types of lights, including ambient, task, and accent, to create a layered lighting design that is both practical and has depth. Rather than spending more money than you need on each light fixture, this is the most effective way to create an elevated lighting plan.
Paint
Interior designers know that it is not necessary to waste money on ultra-expensive paint brands to achieve a high-end look. The quality of the application and finish are more essential than the paint brand in the final outcome. Most interior designers opt for mid-range brands to create the backdrop for their designs. Choosing the right color is far more crucial to the final design than the paint itself.
Curtains and Drapes
Curtains and drapes are often seen as a long-term investment, but interior designers know that you don’t need to overspend on this item to create a sophisticated look and have curtains that last. The key is to focus on fabric choice, fit, and installation.
Choose simple curtain options in neutral fabrics like cotton, linen, or synthetic blends. Lined curtains are preferable to unlined curtains because they feel heavier and offer greater privacy and light control. Choose curtains that are tailored to the proper length and width for your room, so they skim just over the floor and can be fully closed. Install them on high-quality curtain rods that feel and appear sturdy, rather than flimsy.
Decorative Accessories
Instead of splurging on expensive decorative accessories, designers focus on spending money on a few carefully chosen items that have timeless appeal and use high-quality materials. By choosing pieces with simple lines and classic proportions, designers can create an effortlessly chic vibe.
Rather than buying an abundance of decorative pieces, arrange a few thoughtfully purchased pieces in groups so that the composition feels balanced and deliberate. You should also focus on combining pieces made of various materials, such as stone, metal, wood, and glass.
Picture Frames
Frames are an excellent way to showcase wall art, but you don’t need to waste money on expensive frames to get a polished look. Choose a simple rather than ornate frame style, such as classic frames in black, wood, or metal finishes, to give your wall art a gallery-like vibe. The most essential step in this process is to select a frame style that complements the wall art and room design.
Cabinet Hardware
Cabinet hardware is a minor detail that can have a significant impact, but designers understand that you do not have to blow your kitchen budget by selecting expensive knobs and pulls. Inexpensive hardware options in simple styles and timeless finishes can offer the same chic style. Also, kitchen hardware is one of the items that dates more quickly than other elements. When your kitchen hardware costs less, you can replace it sooner rather than later to refresh the look of your kitchen.
Small Accent Chairs
Small accent chairs are an excellent way to add style and personality to a room, but low-cost options can provide just as much style and interest as more expensive ones. Designers look for budget chairs that have simple but elegant lines and durable but versatile upholstery, like velvet, linen, or a synthetic blend that mimics a chic fabric. Mix and match accent chairs throughout your space, varying the size, style, and upholstery to give your room more visual interest.
Towels
Even the most expensive towels become worn over time. Looking for mid-range towels that still feel plush and have excellent absorbency is a better strategy than spending money on high-end towels, which will wear out anyway. This way allows you to replace them sooner than you might if your initial investment was high.
Look for towels that are made from cotton or bamboo that are durable but still affordable. Select towels in muted or neutral colors to create a calming and spa-like look for your space. Presentation is also vital in how they are perceived. Fold or roll them carefully and stack them in open cabinets to contribute to a luxurious bathroom look.
Storage Baskets and Bins
Elements like baskets and bins are essential in any interior design for keeping the space neat and organized, but you can find high-quality storage containers that are affordable and just as useful as expensive versions. Designers look for baskets and bins made of simple but elegant materials like woven seagrass, fabric, or wood that can add texture to a room while also being long-lasting.
Things That are Worth the Splurge
Certain design elements are worthy of receiving a larger percentage of your budget. These are typically foundational elements or items that you want to use to create a specific effect.
- Invest in the Foundation: Quality flooring, tile, and molding is an investment that pays off in the long run because they provide a base for the interior design that will remain durable and attractive for years to come.
- Custom or Statement Pieces: When designing a one-of-a-kind space, it makes sense to invest in a few items that help to define the space, such as a statement light fixture or piece of furniture.
- Timeless Furniture: If you want to purchase furniture that will last for years and possibly become family heirlooms, certain pieces, such as sofas, cabinets, and dining tables, are well worth a higher investment. Look for pieces made with high-quality materials, such as high-performance upholstery and solid wood.
