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Cutting Costs on Home Decor: What Interior Designers Say You Can Skip
In today’s economy, spending wisely on home decor is more important than ever. While some investments like mattresses and sofas might be worth the splurge, many items are not worth the hefty price tag. We spoke with interior designers to gather insights on the items where saving money is not only sensible but smart for long-term home styling.
Rugs: An Unnecessary Expense
High-quality rugs can often cost as much as a mortgage payment, but interior designer Kate Dawson believes spending thousands on rugs is excessive. “Items like fancy Persian or antique oriental rugs are beautiful, but they come with a big price tag,” she explains. Dawson recommends exploring online retailers such as Wayfair or Rugs USA, where affordable rugs can be found for around $500. This way, homeowners can change their decor every few years without feeling guilty about an expensive purchase.
Curtains and Rods: Opt for Mass-Produced Options
Custom window treatments can set homeowners back thousands of dollars. Instead, Dawson suggests looking at mass-produced options available at retailers like Anthropologie and Etsy. For windows that don’t fit standard sizes, consumers can purchase larger curtains and have them hemmed by a local tailor, which is a far more economical solution.
Designer Throw Pillows: Look for Affordable Alternatives
Designer throw pillows can be priced at over $250 each, but Dawson advises against such splurges. “Retailers like HomeGoods and TJ Maxx offer beautiful, vibrant pillows at much lower prices, often featuring new inventory daily,” she notes. If you find a high-end fabric you love, Shay Holland, another designer, suggests buying the fabric by the yard and asking a friend with sewing skills to create a custom look for much less.
Artwork: Embrace Unique Finds
While it’s important to decorate your walls, mass-produced artwork can be overpriced. Instead, Holland recommends checking thrift stores and community art shows for unique pieces that reflect personal style. High-quality prints can also be sourced from online marketplaces like Minted for an affordable price.
Seasonal Decor: Invest Wisely
Spending money on items that can only be enjoyed during specific seasons doesn’t make much sense. Holland points out that unless it’s Christmas, seasonal decor should come with a more modest price tag. For example, rather than splurging on expensive holiday decorations that are only used once a year, she suggests shopping post-holiday sales for versatile items that can be used year-round.
Hardware: Budget-Friendly Choices Available
Updating kitchens and bathrooms can become pricey when it comes to hardware. However, designer Samantha Gallacher emphasizes that affordable options exist. Companies that sell knobs and pulls for $40 or less provide stylish alternatives. For those on a tight budget, hardware multipacks available on platforms like Amazon can offer even more savings.
Sconces: Affordable Lighting Options
Lighting can be a significant expense, particularly for sconces, which can range from $500 to $1,000. Deana Lenz of Deana Lenz Interiors suggests that homeowners can find beautiful and unique sconces at accessible prices, often between $200 and $250. She recommends brands like Lulu and Georgia for finding great deals.
Coffee Table Books: Seek Pre-Owned Options
While stylish coffee table books can enhance a living space’s aesthetic, they are often expensive. Gallacher advises considering pre-owned versions available on Amazon or at garage and estate sales. This approach allows homeowners to add character to their decor without overspending.
Overall, when it comes to furnishing your home, being strategic about where to invest and where to save can lead to a beautifully styled space without breaking the bank.
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