Interior Design: Where To Splurge and Where To Save

Designing a luxury home isn’t about throwing money at every decision—it’s about knowing what’s truly worth the investment and where you can be strategic. A well-designed home should feel effortless, sophisticated, and, most importantly, like it’s built to last. Because for real, no one wants to spend a fortune on something that’s totally forgettable. So, let’s talk about where your budget will have the most impact and where you can pull back without sacrificing style or quality.

Where to Splurge: The Investments That Pay Off

1. Architectural Details and Millwork

If walls could talk, they’d demand some personality. Trim work, ceiling treatments, custom paneling, and built-ins give a home character and a level of craftsmanship that mass-produced materials simply can’t replicate. Coffered ceilings add dimension, wainscoting brings depth, and arched doorways create a seamless flow between spaces. These aren’t just decorative choices; they’re what separate a home that feels thoughtfully designed from one that feels like it was copied from a builder-grade floor plan.

Think of these details as the foundation of your home’s personality. Without them, even the most expensive furnishings can feel out of place. And unlike some furniture or decor, architectural elements don’t go out of style—they evolve beautifully over time, aging like a fine wine (or that expensive bottle of Greek olive oil you swore you’d save for a special occasion but used on a regular Wednesday night pasta dish).

2. Kitchen and Bathrooms

These spaces are the workhorses of the home, so let’s respect them. Custom cabinetry ensures everything is tailored to your needs—no awkward gaps, wasted storage, or flimsy drawers that barely hold up. Natural stone countertops, like honed marble or quartzite, not only look stunning but also wear beautifully over time. Which, friendly reminder, don’t be afraid to use your natural stone countertops to your heart’s content; wear and tear is lovely… But that’s a whole other blog post.

Then there are the fixtures—this is where details matter. A polished nickel faucet, for example, will develop a gorgeous patina over the years, while mass-produced chrome fixtures start looking dated the moment they’re installed. And don’t get me started on appliances—if you cook (or even if you just like the idea of cooking), high-performance ranges, built-in refrigeration, and statement-making sinks are worth every penny. These aren’t only for aesthetics; they make everyday life easier, and that’s a luxury in itself.

3. Furniture

Ever sit on a sofa that looks gorgeous but feels like a park bench? Not ideal. Furniture should be as comfortable as it is beautiful, and that’s why investing in custom or high-quality pieces is essential. Well-constructed seating, made with kiln-dried hardwood frames and hand-tied springs, won’t sag or lose shape after a few years.

Then there’s fabric. The wrong choice means constantly worrying about stains, wear, or—heaven forbid—a guest accidentally spilling that full-bodied red wine. Performance fabrics, high-quality linen, or plush mohair can handle real life while still looking refined. Custom pieces also allow you to get the perfect proportions for your space, eliminating that all-too-common scenario where a sofa overwhelms the room or a dining table feels too small.

4. Lighting

Lighting is the unsung hero of interior design. It’s not just about having a pretty chandelier (though, let’s be clear, a jaw-dropping fixture can absolutely transform a space). It’s about layering different types of light to create depth, warmth, and ambiance. We want ooey gooey goodness, people.

Invest in sculptural, statement-making lighting pieces that add visual interest. Whether it’s a custom chandelier over the dining table, sleek sconces that frame a fireplace, or artisan-made pendants in the kitchen, these elements add polish and personality. And while recessed lighting has its place, nothing beats the glow of a thoughtfully placed table lamp or a well-designed picture light illuminating a stunning piece of art.

5. Fine Art and Sculptural Pieces

A home without art is like an outfit without accessories—technically fine, but missing that little something. Original art and sculptural pieces tell a story, add richness, and make a space feel collected rather than staged or cold. And no, that doesn’t mean you need to drop six figures on a gallery piece. There are incredible artists creating work at every price point, and commissioning a piece that speaks to you is an investment that brings long-term joy.

Sculptural furniture, like a striking side table or a handcrafted pedestal, also adds dimension. These aren’t just finishing touches; they’re what make a house feel like a home, curated rather than straight out of a showroom.

6. Flooring

The right flooring sets the vibe for the entire space. Wide-plank oak, marble, or reclaimed wood adds warmth and texture, creating a solid foundation for the rest of the design. Natural materials age beautifully, gaining character over time, while lower-end options tend to show wear quickly.

If you’ve ever walked into a home with creaky, cheap flooring, you know exactly why this matters. High-quality flooring doesn’t just look better—it feels better underfoot, muffles sound, and ties everything together. And truly, nothing says luxury quite like stepping onto an ultra-plush wool rug first thing in the morning.

Where to Save: Smart Choices That Don’t Compromise Style

1. Accessories and Decorative Objects

Expensive knickknacks don’t automatically scream luxury. Instead of loading up on overpriced decor, focus on meaningful pieces—vintage finds, sculptural ceramics, and well-placed books all add personality without feeling forced. Generally, these items are also ones you can easily switch out if you ever get sick of them. So, spare your wallet the trouble and save here.

2. Outdoor Furniture

While your outdoor space should feel just as luxurious as your interiors, not every piece needs to come with a sky-high price tag. Invest in a standout dining table or a well-crafted sofa, then balance it out with more budget-friendly side tables and accessories. Some materials, like powder-coated aluminum or teak, offer durability without requiring a huge investment.

3. Guest Bedrooms

Your guests deserve a cozy, well-designed space, but let’s be real—they’re not moving in. Instead of splurging on custom furniture for a room that’s only used occasionally, opt for well-made, stylish pieces that deliver comfort without excess. Layered linens, a well-chosen headboard, and soft lighting can make any guest room feel inviting without an over-the-top budget.

All that to say, luxury isn’t about spending recklessly—it’s about making thoughtful choices that stand the test of time. By knowing where to invest and where to be strategic, you create a home that feels sophisticated, comfortable, and distinctly yours.

At Opal Avenue Interior Design, we specialize in creating spaces that are as practical as they are beautiful. Whether you're designing your forever home or elevating your current space, we guide you through the decisions that make the most impact.

Ready to design a home that blends bold, timeless style with everyday comfort? Let’s make it happen.