Unnecessary expenses to avoid for a high-end, refined design: Interior designers steer clear of investing their clients' funds in these six items to create an elegant and opulent ambiance.
Unleashing the Designer's Handbook:
Get ready to discover what interior designers steer clear of when it comes to spending their clients' hard-earned cash on home decor! From unrefined furniture to fleeting trends, these designers know a thing or two about where to invest and where to save. So, before you hastily shop for the latest design trends or succumb to the appeal of budget-friendly options, take a peek at the six things these experts won't waste their money on—and neither should you!
1. Diminutive Drapes
A common complaint among interior designers is the scourge of short curtains. Not only do they cut off the visual height of a room, making ceilings appear lower (the exact opposite of what we want!), but they also do little to enhance the space. As Lauren Lerner, CEO and principal designer at Living with Lolo, puts it, "If your curtains look like they shrank in the wash, they're doing absolutely nothing for your space."
2. Mass-Produced Rugs
Designers would much rather invest in quality rugs, as these pieces add a layer of texture, depth, and durability that generic, affordable rugs simply cannot match. As a luxury interior designer and founder of Cheltenham Interiors, Isabel Jackson, asserts, "A good rug is a foundation piece," so don't be penny-wise and pound-foolish by skimping on these essential floor coverings.
3. Matching Furniture Sets
When it comes to living room furniture, designers advocate for curated, complementary pieces that create a layered, collected feel. Matching sets can lead to a sterile, uninspired ambiance, whereas an eclectic mix of various furniture styles, textures, and materials introduces variety, personality, and depth to the room.
4. Cheap Hardware
When it comes to hardware such as cabinet pulls or towel rings, quality is key. While it might be tempting to save a few bucks by opting for the lowest-priced option, these pieces should not be overlooked. Nothing is more frustrating than a poorly made hardware piece that loosens or breaks under everyday use.
5. Vapid Wall Art
The days of generic, typographic wall decor are long gone. Designers eschew inspirational quotes and cheap prints in favor of original or thoughtfully curated pieces that add soul and authenticity to a room. Your walls deserve to be adorned with something more meaningful than a mass-produced, uninspired piece.
6. Inexpensive Lighting
Don't skimp on lighting! Designers opt for custom, artisanal, or vintage lighting to create a unique and captivating atmosphere. Cheap, generic fixtures will detract from the overall aesthetic of a space, while quality and thoughtful design elevate it.
In conclusion, when decorating your home, it's essential to invest in items that will last and contribute to an elevated, timeless design. Keep these designer-approved tips in mind as you shop for your next home improvement project!
- When contemplating home improvements, interior designers advise avoiding small drapes that hamper a room's visual height and do little to enrich the space.
- Personality and depth can be added to a home by investing in quality rugs, uniquely designed wall art, and thoughtful lighting, instead of opting for mass-produced, budget-friendly options.
