If you’ve been following along with us for some time now, then you’ll know that we’re the first to raise our hands for a fun interior makeover, big or small. While it seems like we are constantly swapping pillows and throws in and out of our space, other décor items are here to stay—and today we’re giving you the low-down on how to pick exactly which investment items should be in it for the long haul.
Of course, decorating a space greatly depends on what phase of life you’re in (is anyone else having flashbacks to their college apartment?), and when you graduate, so-to-speak, from one design phase to another, your décor should grow with you. While you may have limited your décor scope to cheap and barely durable items in your younger years, there comes a time in life when investing in a few staples truly pays off.
Not only will spending a few extra bucks on these staples elevate your home and transform it into a truly “grown up” space, but they will also last you for years to come, and you’ll never think twice about the slightly bigger price tag that once made you nervous. With that said, today we’re sharing 10 décor items that are well worth the splurge, along with our personal pick for each category. Ready? Let’s get started…
1. A Quality Art Piece
Our Pick: The Den , $1,250+
This goes without saying, but quality art is high on our list, and for good reason. While art may seem like a pricey indulgence at first, you’ll be surprised at how versatile it can be in your home, even after years of decorating and redecorating. Saving up and spending those few extra bucks on a really great art piece that you’ve fallen in love with will prove to be a purchase you won’t regret—after all, beautiful artwork is often what gives a space personality and catches the eye when you first walk in a room. If you ever feel like the vibe in your space is going stale, simply move your favorite print to a different wall, or a different room for a whole new look and atmosphere. Trust us, it will make your art feel like new again, and you’ll be reminded over and over why it was so worth the investment!
2. A Well-Made Light Fixture
Our Pick: Serena & Lily Morrison Chandelier , $2,898
Not only does a really gorgeous light fixture take your breath away when you enter a room, but it also acts as the cherry on top of your interior design. For that reason, we think a good light fixture that you love is well worth the splurge—especially when it is hung in a room where people gather, such as the living room or dining room (or both!) so you and your guests can enjoy it on a regular basis. Since it is something that is relatively permanent compared to the rest of your décor, picking a light fixture that goes with everything, yet still makes a statement, will make for an investment that you won’t regret.
3. A Good Bar Cart
Our Pick: Lulu & Georgia Kalida Bar Cart , $1,055
Whether you’re a happy hour regular or not, a good bar cart is useful in any home. Not only can you dress it up with all of your favorite bar accessories (and change them out over the years for a new look), but you can also dress it down and let it shine on its own. Or, get creative and use it for a totally different purpose! Whether you’re actually using it for cocktails, as a décor piece that’s “just for looks,” or as a functional shelf for something else entirely, every home can benefit from a good bar cart.
4. A Durable Rug
Our Pick: Serena & Lily Amelia Hand-Knotted Rug , $1,298-$3,998
When it comes to choosing a rug to create a foundation for your space, the fact that there are so many different styles and manufacturing methods can be overwhelming. But, if you’re looking for a rug that will last you a lifetime and be worth the purchase, opt for one that is hand-knotted or hand-woven. These types of rugs are made by skilled artisans who hand-tie each knot and weave that they are made of, which means great attention to detail and quality—but it also means they carry a heftier price tag. However, if you make the investment for a good rug in the first place, then you should be able to carry it with you from house to house, room to room, for years to come.
5. A Really Great Sofa
Our Pick: Robin Bruce Maddox Sectional, Forest Green , $5,795
A sofa is generally a piece that will get a lot of use from both you and your guests alike, so it’s well worth it to loosen up the pocket book for a piece like this. That being said, make sure you’re splurging on quality, not just style. While some couches may be priced because they are a unique style or luxurious material, if you want your purchase to be timeless, go for a sofa that has a sturdy frame (some of the best are made of kiln-dried hardwood), strong joints, and durable cushion filling. Basically, you can never ask too many questions when it comes to purchasing a sofa, especially when it is one you’ve been saving up for.
6. A Set of Classic Dishes
Our Pick: Williams & Sonoma Pillivuyt Basketweave Dinnerware , $115.95-$417.95
While it can be fun to have colorful kitchen accents here and there, no kitchen is complete without a set of timeless dishes. You can always add pops of color and interesting pieces to supplement your collection, but start with a complete set that will go with any décor and fit any occasion. A set of clean white dishes will not only be a staple in your kitchen, but will also help you avoid the cycle of getting tired of your dishware and swapping them out for new ones. If you ask us, a set of subtly embellished, yet classic dishes like these ones are well worth the splurge. But whatever you choose, make sure your set is not too delicate to ensure longevity, as well as microwave and dishwasher safe for easy cleanup.
7. A Good Set of Sheets
Our Pick: Peacock Alley Barrata Sateen Sheet Set, White , $205
If there’s any reason to splurge on a set of great sheets, it’s because you’ll use them daily and they’ll help you catch endless nights of restful Zzz’s (need we say more?). But on top of that, a quality set of sheets will make your bedroom look and feel more luxurious, and will last through wash after wash and regular wear and tear, unlike their cheaper counterparts. If you purchase a set of sheets for a pretty penny, make sure you select a color that is universally flattering with any style or pattern of bedding you might pair it with. Or in other words… you can never go wrong with clean white or classic cream.
8. A Versatile Kitchen Appliance
Our Pick: KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer , $379.95
Whether you’re an avid baker or not, we think everyone needs an appliance as versatile as a KitchenAid. If you’re just a beginner, then this appliance will only make your life easier, and if you’re a pro in the kitchen, then you have a world of options to choose from with an appliance like this. It may not be something you go pick up on a whim, but an appliance that allows for dozens of different attachments and modifications (like this one does!) will make it worth every. single. penny.
9. A Sturdy, Yet Stylish Bed
Our Pick: Roar + Rabbit Brass Geo Inlay Bed , $1,299-$1,599
The bed can be a real statement-making piece in the bedroom, and one that lasts for years on end. As you can probably tell, we’re no stranger to adding a fun patterned bed to our space, but we also value quality when it comes to a piece like this. Since a bed truly centers a bedroom and is used on a regular basis, we recommend opting for one that is sturdy and durable in its build, but also looks stylish and contributes to your design. After all, there’s nothing worse than a well-decorated room finished off with a boring bed, right? So save up and get shopping…
10. A Quality Office Chair
Our Pick: Nash Leather Swivel Desk Chair , $629
Especially in this day in age where so many can get work done from home, a quality office chair that is both stylish and comfortable is a must. And luckily, there are so many options to choose from! We’re not ones to sacrifice style just for comfort, so we love marrying both for a piece that will add to the aesthetic of your home office and make for a pretty comfortable 9-5. Trust us, this one is worth the investment, and after one workday at home, you’ll know why.
Did we miss anything? What other décor items do you think are worth the investment?
At the end of the day, just make sure that whatever you’re spending your extra pennies on will be a piece that is timeless, versatile, and will have your back for years to come. We promise it will be worth it!
Xx Team GM