Interior design often feels synonymous with high costs, but experts reveal that some living room staples don’t require a premium price tag to achieve style and function. Many living rooms serve multiple purposes and demand durability; however, expensive items aren’t always necessary to create a pleasing space. Here’s what designers say you can skip without sacrificing aesthetics.
Overpriced Art
Art enhances any living room, adding visual appeal and setting the mood. But according to Chelsea Jacobsen, founder of Ché Studio, expensive artwork isn’t essential. Online stores offer affordable, stylish prints that can personalize your space without breaking the bank.
Jacobsen suggests pairing budget-friendly digital prints with thrifted vintage frames for an eclectic look. The abundance of accessible art and frames makes creating a unique gallery wall easy and cost-effective.
Decorative Cushions
Ornate throw pillows may look beautiful, but Giverny Simm, lead interior designer at Studio Howes, argues they’re impractical for everyday use. Highly decorative cushions are expensive, prone to damage, and require careful cleaning.
Instead, Simm recommends choosing cushions with interesting patterns or textures. Textured fabrics like linen or bouclé add depth and comfort while being more durable. The goal is visual impact without the high maintenance.
Open Shelving
Pinterest-worthy open shelves are tempting, but Agnes Agocs, owner of Agnes Agocs Interiors, cautions that they rarely work for most people. Custom-built shelves with cabinets are costly, and even non-custom options can lead to unnecessary spending as you feel pressured to fill them with decorative objects.
Agocs notes that open shelves quickly look cluttered if not perfectly curated, something few homeowners can consistently maintain. The illusion of a styled display often outweighs the reality of a functional space.
Coffee Table Books
Styled living rooms in magazines and on social media often feature coffee table books, but Agocs points out they’re primarily props, not necessities. These books look good in photos but aren’t practical for real-life homes, taking up space without adding value.
Agocs suggests decorating coffee tables with small plants, candles, or storage boxes instead. If you enjoy reading them regularly, keep books on display, but skip the purely decorative ones.
High-End Rugs
Area rugs add warmth and cohesion to a living room, but Simm argues that expensive rugs aren’t always worth the investment. High-end rugs often require high maintenance and aren’t suited for high-traffic areas like most living rooms.
Simm advises focusing on durability and ease of cleaning when choosing a rug. Opt for materials that align with how you use the room, prioritizing practicality over luxury.
Prioritizing function over price doesn’t mean sacrificing style. The key is to choose items that enhance your living space without unnecessary costs. Designers recommend focusing on quality, durability, and personal taste rather than chasing trends or designer labels.
