How to Choose Where to Splurge and Where to Save in Your Home

Let’s be real: whether you're giving your space a little refresh or going all-in on a full-blown makeover, decorating a home is an investment. But not everything has to come with a hefty price tag. The trick is knowing when to invest in quality, long-lasting pieces and when it’s totally fine to snag a stylish steal from HomeGoods. And whether you’re buying high or low, we believe your home should reflect you—not us, not Pinterest, not that one friend who insists everything must be white and beige (no offense if that’s your thing!). So, let’s break it down: when to splurge, when to save, and how to create a home that’s both beautiful and functional.

Splurge-Worthy Pieces: Where Quality Matters

Some items in your home are worth every penny because they get daily use, impact your comfort, or just make a big visual statement.

Here’s where you should consider investing:

Sofas: Your Home’s MVP

Your sofa is like the quarterback of your living room—it gets all the action. Whether you're binge-watching your latest guilty pleasure, hosting a wine night, or just lounging with a book, this piece takes a beating. A high-quality sofa means better frame construction (solid hardwood > particleboard), durable upholstery (hard yes to performance fabric if you have kids or pets!), and long-term comfort. Plus, a well-made sofa can easily last a decade or more. That’s way better than replacing a saggy cheap one every few years!

Your Bed: Because Sleep is Sacred

If there’s one place you should prioritize comfort, it’s your bed. A solid, well-crafted bed frame sets the tone for your entire bedroom, and a good mattress? Life-changing. Skimping on a cheap mattress is a shortcut to back pain and restless nights, so go for the best you can afford. The same goes for high-quality sheets—if you’ve never experienced the magic of breathable, luxurious bedding, you’re missing out.

Dining Tables: Gather in Style

A sturdy, beautiful dining table is worth the splurge if you love entertaining or if your kitchen table doubles as a homework station. Solid wood options age beautifully and can be refinished over time. A solid, well-crafted table can become a family heirloom, where you pass down stories along with your family’s secret chocolate cake recipe.

Statement Lighting: The Jewelry of Your Home

Lighting has a major impact on a room’s vibe. A stunning chandelier in your dining room or a statement pendant over the kitchen island can instantly elevate the space. Think of these as investment pieces—you don’t have to go designer-label crazy, but quality fixtures will last longer and make a bigger impact than something mass-produced and forgettable.

Save-Worthy Items: Budget-Friendly Beauties

Not everything in your home has to break the bank. Some items are totally fine to source from budget-friendly retailers, especially when trends change faster than you can say “white farmhouse.”

Trendy Decor: Because Styles Change

That sculptural vase, quirky throw pillow, or oversized coffee table book? Go budget-friendly. Styles evolve, and the last thing you want is to spend a fortune on something that feels “so last year” before you’ve even fully enjoyed it. HomeGoods, Target, and even online marketplaces are goldmines for stylish, affordable accents.

Area Rugs: High-Traffic Zones Need Easy Swaps

Rugs take a beating—spilled wine, muddy paws, kids and their endless ability to create chaos. While a high-end wool rug can last generations, it’s not always practical. For high-traffic areas, budget-friendly rugs (or even better, machine-washable ones!) can be a smart choice. Swap them out when they wear down or when you just feel like a fresh look.

Side Tables and Accent Furniture: Fun and Flexible

A side table doesn’t need to last forever. You can find chic, functional options at reasonable prices without sacrificing style. Same goes for accent chairs, bar carts, and console tables. If you’re prone to rearranging furniture every season, there’s no need to spend a fortune. Mix high-end with affordable finds for a curated look that doesn't scream "I bought the whole showroom."

Wall Art: Mix High and Low

Not every piece of art in your home has to be a pricey original. Mix in some budget-friendly prints, framed photographs, or DIY artwork alongside investment pieces. You can even rotate art seasonally to keep things fresh!

Function First: It’s Not Just About Looks

Great interior design isn’t just about making a home look good—it’s about making it work for you.

A stunning sofa that’s uncomfortable? A dining chair that leaves your guests fidgeting? No thanks.

When we design spaces at The Design Canvas, we focus on how you actually live in your home. Do you have kids? Pets? Love to entertain? Work from your kitchen island? These details matter.

A well-designed home isn’t just pretty; it makes your life easier, more comfortable, and more enjoyable.

Your Home, Your Style

One of the biggest misconceptions about hiring an interior designer is that you’ll end up with our style. Nope! Our job is to translate your style into a home that feels like you. We’re here to guide you on what’s worth investing in and where you can save, all while making sure your space reflects your personality, lifestyle, and vibe. We want to create a space that makes you feel like your best self, whether that's a zen retreat or a colorful bohemian paradise.

The 80/20 Rule

Here's a little rule of thumb we like to use: Spend about 80% of your budget on those quality, long-lasting pieces, and 20% on the fun, trendy items that you can switch out more easily. This way, you've got a solid foundation with room to play.

The Power of Patience

Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is a well-designed home. It's okay to take your time, saving up for those special pieces while filling in with budget finds. Your home should evolve with you, telling your story along the way.

Designing a home is all about balance—mixing high and low, knowing where to invest, and where to have fun with budget-friendly finds. The goal is to create a space that feels personal, functional, and timeless, without sacrificing your savings. At The Design Canvas, we love helping clients find that sweet spot where quality meets personality, all while keeping things approachable and stress-free.

If you’re looking for a Virginia Beach interior designer to refresh your space, let’s chat! We’d love to help you design a home that’s both you and built to last. We provide In-Person Design Services in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Portsmouth, ad Suffolk and online across the US.