Designing a home is no small feat — it takes a village of professionals, a lot of time, and some serious investment. I’m a firm believer that quality work doesn’t always have to break the bank, but I’m also an advocate for spending money when necessary. In my 10+ years as a designer, I’m confidently equipped to help my clients know when to save, and when to splurge.
In this blog post, I’m sharing the places in your home (and even the specific pieces) that are worth investing in. Let’s get to it!
1. The Kitchen
I’ve been waxing poetic about the magic of the kitchen for years. Not only do I love to cook, host, and enjoy delicious food, but the kitchen is also the prime gathering place for couples, families, and friends. The kitchen is used so frequently, so it’s honestly a necessity to invest in quality materials for your cabinetry, countertops, and appliances. It’s crucial that these elements are durable, functional, and visually appealing over time — so I usually recommend opting for a timeless look that prioritizes longevity.
Bonus: It’s not only cost-efficient and functionally beneficial for you to invest in a kitchen for yourself, but it also increases a home’s ROI if and when you sell. It’s a win now AND later!
2. The Bathrooms
Some of the smallest spaces in our home require some of the biggest upfront investments — which can feel frustrating, but I promise it’s worth it! Primary bathrooms (and all other bathrooms near or connected to bedrooms) not only get a lot of foot traffic from their residents, but they also require maximum protection from water and steam. Low-quality materials for vanities (including countertops, cabinetry, hardware, mirrors, and more) may save money upfront, but their constant exposure to moisture will require frequent replacement or maintenance. Spend the money now, enjoy the luxury of a high-quality bathroom, and then benefit from the high return on investment when selling later down the line.
P.S. Below, I’m sharing my tips for creating a spa-like bathroom. When your home is luxurious, you won’t need to get away to feel like you’re in an oasis…
3, Flooring
Flooring sets the tone and style for the rest of your home. It’s truly the foundation of your interior design, so choosing the right material and finish can enhance the look of every room. Do you want wood floors that are wide plank, do you like a herringbone pattern, do you prefer a color tile on your bathroom floor, and do you love the look of marble in the entry? There are so many choices (and I’m here to help you make the right ones for your home) — but whatever your style is, my best advice is to choose high-quality options. As I always like to say: If you do it right, it only hurts once.
4, Seating (Specifically, Custom Seating!)
It’s safe to say that about 80% of our clients’ furnishings are custom-made — and that’s because comfort is not one-size-fits-all, and comfort is absolutely crucial in any residential setting. Custom-made seating allows for a level of durability and comfortability that’s not always guaranteed — plus, when it’s custom, it will fit the exact style and specifications your home deserves. When designing a home, we do lots of “sit tests” — and we adjust the fill, size, and materiality according to a family’s standards. Just think: A family of basketball players has different needs for their chairs and sofas than a family of pianists… So why should either of them sacrifice? These customizations aren’t cheap — but they’re certainly cost-effective because they pay for themselves in comfort and longevity.
5. Lighting
Lighting makes or breaks the atmosphere of a room — it controls not only visibility but also mood, relaxation, comfort, and ambiance. There are so many amazing options out there for a customized lighting experience, from the obvious dimmers and timers to settings allowing for changes in tone and warmth. Each room has its own lighting needs, with a kitchen requiring far different options than a home office or bedroom. So as much as I love a fabulous task lamp, the true investment here comes, again, with customization.
And Finally… Where Can You Save?
When reading the above, it may sound like every single element of your home requires a massive investment — and while it is important to prioritize quality, there are a few places where quality can come at a lower price point.
It’s no secret that art is the shining star of just about every home I design. Art speaks volumes about a family, a lifestyle, a culture, and a personality — but a beautiful art collection doesn’t have to be an expensive one. I love searching for art at estate sales or vintage shops, and I always pick up new work when I’m traveling. The true beauty of a home is found in the people who live within it, and that’s often shown through their collectibles and keepsakes. Priceless.