Looking for things interior designers never buy for their homes? Read this first!
Interior designers are known for their impeccable taste, but they’re also skilled at budgeting where it counts. While it’s tempting to splurge on trendy decor or furniture with a luxury label, many designers argue that certain items just aren’t worth the investment. Whether you’re decorating your first apartment or refreshing your forever home, here are the top things interior designers say aren’t worth the money and what they recommend instead.
Contents
- 1. Matching Furniture Sets
- 2. Trendy Decor That Won’t Last
- 3. Wall-to-Wall Carpeting
- 4. Designer Throw Pillows
- 5. Open Shelving in Kitchens
- 6. Mass-Produced Wall Art
- 7. Fancy Light Fixtures in Kids’ Rooms
- 8. Overly Themed Rooms
- 9. Custom Window Treatments in Every Room
- 10. Trendy Statement Pieces You’ll Regret
- Final Thoughts: Design Smarter, Not Pricier
1. Matching Furniture Sets
Buying the whole showroom set may seem like a shortcut to stylish living, but designers agree: it’s a waste.
“Matching sets lack personality,” says one designer. “They make your space feel like a furniture catalog.”
What to do instead: Mix and match pieces from different sources for a layered, curated look that reflects your style.
2. Trendy Decor That Won’t Last
TikTok-inspired neon signs or fast-fashion decor may look cute now, but they rarely hold their value—either in durability or design relevance.
What to skip: Hyper-trendy items that won’t stand the test of time.
Opt for: Classic accents, quality materials, and pieces that still feel relevant a few years down the line.
3. Wall-to-Wall Carpeting
While plush carpet feels nice underfoot, interior designers usually avoid it altogether—especially in high-traffic areas.
“It traps dirt and allergens and dates your home quickly.”
Instead: Choose hardwood, tile, or high-quality laminate flooring with stylish rugs layered in for comfort and style.
4. Designer Throw Pillows
Yes, they’re cute, but $150+ throw pillows? No thanks.
Why designers pass: High-end pillows often have markup for the brand, not the material.
Try this: Buy inexpensive pillow inserts and switch out stylish covers seasonally from affordable retailers or Etsy shops.
5. Open Shelving in Kitchens
It looks beautiful in photos, but many designers won’t install open shelves in their own homes.
The problem: It requires constant cleaning and perfectly styled dishes.
Alternative: Glass-front cabinets give a similar airy look without the upkeep.
6. Mass-Produced Wall Art
Big box stores may offer canvas prints for cheap, but interior designers rarely decorate their homes with these.
Why they skip it: It’s impersonal and overused.
What they do instead: Support local artists, search vintage markets, or DIY your own art pieces for a unique touch.
7. Fancy Light Fixtures in Kids’ Rooms
Chandeliers and designer lights in nurseries may look adorable on Pinterest, but designers caution against them.
“Kids grow quickly. So should their room.”
Better idea: Choose affordable, functional lighting that can evolve with the child’s needs.
8. Overly Themed Rooms
Pirate-themed playrooms or beachy bathrooms can become outdated fast.
Why they avoid it: Themed rooms limit flexibility and often require a total redesign down the road.
Pro tip: Use neutral foundations and incorporate the theme with temporary elements like bedding or accessories.
9. Custom Window Treatments in Every Room
While custom drapes can be stunning, outfitting every window in the home is pricey and not always necessary.
What designers do: Reserve custom work for statement rooms like the living or dining area, and opt for off-the-shelf panels elsewhere.
10. Trendy Statement Pieces You’ll Regret
Think velvet scalloped sofas or neon-accented bar carts. Interior designers might use these for clients, but often won’t buy them for themselves.
Why: These pieces can quickly fall out of fashion and are hard to re-sell.
Go timeless: Focus your budget on well-made staple items like sofas, dining tables, and beds, and play with trendier accessories instead.
Final Thoughts: Design Smarter, Not Pricier
When it comes to creating a beautiful home, interior designers understand that value doesn’t always mean expensive. They invest in what lasts including quality craftsmanship, timeless style, and pieces that grow with your lifestyle. Skip the flashy fads and lean into functionality and personal taste instead.
Tip: Want to see what real designers recommend buying instead? Check out thrift finds, vintage treasures, and handmade goods—you’ll get more soul for less money!
