Back to our balancing act, the art of knowing where to spend and where to save when investing in our homes. Last week, I dove into investment-worthy pieces for your home based on my experience and what I've learned from serving my clients.
On the flip side of that coin is knowing where to save. Thinking of the things that we still need, want, and love but don't have to go to a premium brand to get. Two things warrant saving money on an item rather than splurging, depending on your overall investment. The first is accent pieces, which play a supporting role in filling out the space, adding the last layer of function, but are touched less frequently than the large pieces in your home. The second are things that are well made at various price points, with full functionality, so you don't need to go to the top of your budget for them. While saving on items may give you more leeway to change them out in the future, I'm not suggesting you buy placeholder or disposable furnishings but rather invest a smaller percent of your overall budget on these pieces.
Side tables: Considered a type of accent furniture, side tables are a great place to save on your investment while still getting a well-functioning, good-looking piece. In fact, you'll see similar-looking items at all different price points in the market, which means you can get just about any look you desire at any price point that fits you. While there is no doubt that accent tables are coveted for both their convenience (you have to be able to set the drink somewhere), they also bring that layered and finished look to a space. I prefer that each seat in a home has a table accessible to its occupant for precisely these reasons.
Tip: When shopping for side tables, ensure they are at or 1-2" below the arm of the seat it will sit next to.
Geometric side table: Zayden table (West Elm)
Metal side table: Round Metal Cocktail Table (Pottery Barn)
Pedestal table: Round Wood Accent Table (Target)
Want more? Check out my Pinterest board with all my favorite home décor items.
Window treatments: It is incredible to me how many great options there are for window coverings at all different price points! Gone are the days of having cheap mini blinds or custom-made shades because almost every retail brand has an offering. And just because you're buying ready-made doesn't mean you have to sacrifice on look or quality. This is an excellent option for curtains because you can pivot between a classic look, like linen, and a bolder color or pattern. Remember to pay attention to a curtain's light filtering level, ranging from light diffusing to black-out. For shades, measure twice for inside and outside mounts to ensure they fit your windows.
Tip: When shopping for curtains, the fuller, the better; look for each panel to measure the same as the total width of your window.
Linen Curatins: Emery Linen Blackout Curtain (Pottery Barn)
Woven Roman Shades: Natural Roman Shades (Pottery Barn)
Toile Printed Curtains: Cotton Room Darkening Panels (Wayfair)
Want more? Check out my window treatments Pinterest board for curtains and shades.
Light Fixtures: Similar to window treatments, light fixtures have become so readily available at all different prices and retailers that you don't have to sacrifice style for cost. And because this doesn't get a lot of wear and tear, it's a great place to look for affordable options. Lighting is a highly functional aspect of a house (getting bright light for tasks and bedside reading lamps). Still, it also helps bring that cozy feeling we associate with home (lowering the overhead lights, turning on some lamps, and lighting a candle). So pay attention to the importance of lighting, and with all the great options out there, you can incorporate layered lighting into any budget.
Tip: Ensure you can use your lights to set the mood by looking for 3-way rotary switches on lamps and the dimmable feature on overhead hardwired lights.
1. Semi Flush Mount Light: Everlee Semi Flush (Wayfair)
2. Ceramic Table Lamp: Large Black Ceramic Lamp (Target)
3. Plug-In Wallsconce: Sleek Swing Arm Sconce (Shades of Light)
Want more? Check out my lighting Pinterest board for countless options.
What do you choose to save on when it comes to home decor and furnishings? I'd love to know and see them in the comments box below!
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