8 Things Interior Designers Say You Should Never Splurge On

Interior designers are known for investing in quality items that will elevate a home, but it turns out that even the pros have areas where they're willing to cut back a bit. We spoke with Southern interior designers who chimed in with eight categories of items they just aren't willing to splurge on, and why. Read on and save your hard earned cash for something extra worthwhile instead!

Anything Too Trendy

Many designers are of the belief that you're always better off not playing too much into trends. Marya Karlton recommends not splurging on anything too current or that could be tied to a specific era.

"Timeless, classic style is always a wise investment," says the founder of Karlton Kelly Interiors in Washington, D.C.

Emily Mangus, the founder of Emily Mangus Interiors in Roanoke, Virginia, agrees. "Splurge on items that spark joy in your home, bringing out your individuality," she says.

Newly Made Candlesticks

Evan Millárd, the founder of Nashville's millárd, would rather spend money on nice secondhand candlesticks rather than newly made ones.

"Look for those made by artisans or peruse your local thrift or antique stores," he suggests, noting that one of his favorite pairs of candlesticks is mid-century modern in style. "Not only will unique candlesticks be a conversation starter, you won’t have the same pair as everyone else."

Fancy Cut Flowers

Rather than paying big bucks for a nice bouquet, shop for fresh flowers at places such as Trader Joe's—or even your own backyard—says J.P. Horton, the founder of J.P. Horton Interior Design in Charlottesville, Virginia. You can even forage in the woods, the designer adds.

Extra Large Televisions

Skip the movie theater-sized TV, Horton says, and buy a smaller screen for a lower price.

"Unless you have a home theater, there is no need for a huge TV to take up half of your living space," he says. "They are an eyesore and dominate your room and life!"

Accent Decor

You can style gorgeous shelves by mixing a couple of higher end accessories in with others from big box stores, notes Amy Munger, the founder of Munger Interiors in Houston, Texas. She recommends checking out retailers such as Amazon, CB2, and Zara Home for affordable decorative items that will still add flair to your home.

Dominique DeLaney agrees that you can certainly cut back when it comes to items such as vases, frames, and mirrors. "You can find so many great things at local antique shops or places like Target or CB2," says the founder of Dominique DeLaney Interior Design in Cornelius, North Carolina. "These are items you can switch out easily and upgrade as budget allows down the road."

Artwork

While some art pieces are certainly worth the investment, you can still weave art into your home without blowing your bank account.

"Sometimes you just need an accent piece to tie the room together," DeLaney says, noting that in these instances, she will often turn to Etsy, secondhand shops, and more to source pieces from up and coming artists.

Towels

Jamie Krywicki Wilson has learned over time that splurging on expensive towels just doesn't make sense.

"Even the most expensive ones get put through the ringer and look dingy after a while, especially when you have kids," says the founder of Krywicki Design in Marietta, Georgia. "We’ve opted for a middle of the road option or even a economical towel in lieu of dropping lots of cash on the designer brands."

Anything You Don't Absolutely Love

If you can live without it, don't splurge on it, comments Katie Hilburn, the founder of Katie Hilburn Interiors also in Houston.

"A splurge should be something that adds significant function and/or aesthetic joy for you—bonus points for both," she says. "Splurges should make you swoon!"