10 Home Décor Items Worth Splurging On, According to Designers

Sofas

When it comes to furniture you interact with regularly, designers recommend splurging. "Your sofa easily sees more daily use than almost any other piece in your home," says Madelaine Mayer, principal and founder of ADROIT Architecture & Interior Design. "Because it is physically one of the largest and most foundational elements in a living space, it sets the tone for the entire room."

Upholstered furniture is very complex to make as well, she notes, so it's worth paying a bit extra for a quality product. "There are a hundred hidden decisions that go into crafting a sofa, and they all directly impact its comfort and longevity," says Mayer. "Budget alternatives often skip critical corner-reinforcement blocks on frame joints, compromising stability. They may also use low-density foams that break down rapidly and lose their shape."

Cabinet Hardware

Cabinet hardware is also worth investing in, whether you're renovating a kitchen, bathroom, or even an old dresser. "Think about how often your hand meets the face of a cabinet door versus how often it interacts with the pull or knob," says Mayer. "Opting for a substantial, beautifully textured, and thoughtfully-shaped piece of hardware turns a mundane, repetitive action into an incredibly tactile, luxurious experience."

Plus, there are hidden downsides to shopping for these products on a budget. "Inexpensive hardware is typically hollow, lightweight, and finished with cheap plating that quickly tarnishes," she says.

Antiques

Antiques have always been coveted, but they're gaining even more popularity as of late—and for good reason. "They add character, drama, and a sense of intrigue to a space, whether it’s a small antique cabinet or a console with a beautiful patina," says Ayesha Usman, principal and founder of Ayesha Usman Design. The same pieces from fast furniture shops typically only last a few years.

Abigail Horace, founder and principal designer of Casa Marcelo, enjoys investing in smaller-scale antiques. "I have styled many rare vintage items in my projects," she says. "It all contributes to the unique and personal styling of your home."

Original Artwork

Another item Usman doesn't hesitate to spend extra money on is original artwork, "whether it's collected during travels or found while thrifting at local antique stores," she says. "These items carry a history from before you invested in them, and because of their quality and durability, they will be appreciated by generations to come."

Bookends

Tiny but mighty, bookends are one of Horace's favorite pieces to go all-in on. "My favorite ones are from Made Goods, but I've also acquired a couple of vintage bookends," she says. "I think buying these on a budget is a bad idea, because you don't want anything flimsy. You also want something unique that will feel timeless as the years pass."

Natural Fiber Rugs

While more budget-friendly rugs are certainly available, it's hard to beat a high-quality piece. "Natural fiber and hand-knotted rugs typically age more gracefully and withstand heavy foot traffic better than inexpensive synthetic alternatives," says Jennifer Cataldo, interior designer and founder of Maison Cataldo.

John Stivale, designer and co-founder of Stivale Graffam Home, encourages his clients to invest in the best rug their budget allows, particularly in living spaces. "A beautifully crafted rug not only elevates a space visually, but can also become an heirloom piece that lasts for generations," he says.

Light Fixtures

Lighting is a category where your money really makes a big difference. "A beautiful chandelier, pendant, or pair of sconces functions as both illumination and art," says Cataldo. "Higher-quality fixtures typically feature better materials, craftsmanship, and proportions, while budget options can sometimes look dated or less refined over time."

Vases

While you can find beautiful vases on a budget when thrifting, something truly unique, oddly shaped, or handcrafted shouldn't be passed up. "Budgeting for these will just make your space fall flat, and it will look like everyone else's décor," says Horace. "We have so many go-to vases that people use over and over, [so] sometimes it's nice to splurge on something unique."

Solid Wood or Stone Furniture

Well-crafted case goods—like dining tables, consoles, and built-ins—come with a higher price thanks to their durable construction. "These elements become part of the architecture of the home," says Stivale. "Investing in quality materials such as solid wood, natural stone, and expert craftsmanship ensures these pieces age gracefully and stand up to everyday use."

Drapery

Drapery tends to be an afterthought, but it's easy to notice when you've cut costs on it. "Either the fabric length is too short and not dusting the ground, or it's too long and pooling all around," says Brittny Button, interior designer and founder of Button Atelier.

Button recommends having a brand send you fabric samples first to see how it will look in your room. "The digital version of color or texture is always different from what it looks like in person," she says.