Whether you are moving into your first apartment, building a home, or renovating a fixer upper, it can be a challenge to know where to save and splurge on home decor. When we became first time home owners, I did not know where to begin! I am someone who enjoys researching to see ALL of the options before making a purchase. Both value and quality are important; sometimes I save, sometimes I invest. Of course, what is most important to you will be a personal decision. But in case you are trying to figure this balance out for yourself, I thought I would share where I have decided to save and splurge in our home! I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments. Whether you have landed in a similar place or somewhere completely different–there is no right or wrong answer. Let’s get started!

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Where to Save on Home Decor

Save on Accent Chairs

Where to Save and Splurge on Home Decor | Affordable budget friendly accent chairs, Target slipcovered linen chairs, Dune chair dupe, white and beige accent chairs for modern organic living room

In my recent post about our new accent chairs, I shared that I decided to go with a “save” option. In this season with young kiddos, I decided that a budget friendly choice would be best for us! We currently have two sets of accent chairs from Target and they are both sturdy and relatively comfortable. Since accent chairs do not receive as much use as your sofa, they are a great place to save. Check out my post rounding up 50+ Neutral Accent Chairs for even more options!

SHOP ACCENT CHAIRS

Save on Decor Accents

Where to Save and Splurge on Home Decor | white oak sideboard with smoked glass vase, black candle holders, minimalist neutral artwork

When it comes to decor accents, there is a wide spectrum of price points. Since these are pieces I swap out depending on the season, I tend to go with affordable options. The Threshold Designed with Studio McGee collection at Target and H&M Home are my favorites for on trend decor accents like baskets, vases, bowls, beads, and sculptures.

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Save on Printable Artwork

Bedroom Office Nook (and Vintage Art Gallery Wall) | black sit to stand electric standing desk, hats hanging on wall, poetto vase, collected antique art gallery wall

My favorite way to add artwork to our home on a budget has been to use printable art. I created this gallery wall of vintage art over my desk using affordable printables from Etsy! You can even download artwork from that is free to use from the Library of Congress website. After purchasing a digital print, I order giclee prints from Mpix to hang in our home. (Deep matte photographic paper for paintings, fine art photographic paper for drawings.) I would love to invest in original art someday, but for now printable art has been my go to! Linking some of my favorite digital prints below.

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Save on Area Rugs

Linen Accent Chair Roundup (White and Beige) | neutral living room with beige pinch pleat drapes, linen slipcovered accent chairs, and wood frame accent chairs from Target

Finally, area rugs! Rugs are large decor items and therefore always a bit of an investment. However, there are many great options that I would still consider budget friendly for the size and quality. I have worked with Loloi and Rugs USA in the past and have also purchased rugs from their collections myself because they are some of my favorites. Linking some finds below, and you can also check out my post Affordable Area Rugs for Every Room and Style.

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Where to Splurge on Home Decor

Splurge on Light Fixtures

Casual Tablescape for Spring and Summer | neutral dining room, board and batten, black dining chairs

And now for the splurge items! When it comes to investing in home decor, personally I think that statement lighting is the place to start. A chandelier in the dining room, pendants in the kitchen, and lamps or wall sconces in bedrooms really set the tone for a space, and it is difficult to replicate the look of quality materials. I have also noticed that budget chandeliers tend to be on the small side, which is a bummer since scale is so important in design. As with everything, balance is key. But if you are wanting to add a high end look to your space, consider investing in quality lighting. Here are some of my favorites!

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Splurge on Handmade and Vintage Decor

Mauve throw pillow, handwoven designer pillow

Remember when I mentioned original artwork above? Handmade decor and art is certainly an investment, but so worthwhile to support artisans and makers. Whether it is handmade pottery or found vintage decor, these items also add so much character to your home. I love to share my friend Jasmin whose pillow shop Xasmin Interiors features textiles from artisans around the world! The mauve pillow above from is one of my most asked about decor pieces. In addition to shopping small, consider browsing antique and vintage shops, where you can find treasures at a lower price point.

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Splurge on Quality Bedding

Serena and Lily Bedding Review | linen bedding, duvet cover, linen quilt, euro shams, tassel pillows, Flynn wall sconce with wicker shade, wide vintage landscape art over bed, neutral bedroom decor, coastal modern home

Next up for where to splurge on home decor: bedding! For several years I purchased inexpensive bedding made from synthetic fabrics. It was a good place to start on a budget, but the cheap bedding often unraveled and didn’t feel very nice. I slowly began to invest in higher quality bedding made of natural textiles that are more durable and sustainable. More on our linen bedding here if you are interested! I also purchased this silk pillowcase last year and love that little bit of luxury at bedtime.

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Splurge on a Comfortable Sofa or Sectional

pinch pleat drapes paired with wood roman shades, cream sofa with throw pillows

Last but not least… I recommend investing in a quality sofa or sectional for your home. There is nothing like having a comfortable place to have a movie night, read a book, or chat with friends and family. We had the cream sectional in the photo above for eight years and it was the most loved item in our home! I recently decided to sell our sectional and try a new layout with a sofa. Here is my Article Sitka sofa review! Check out my favorite sofas and sectionals below.

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Where to Save and Splurge on Home Decor: Conclusion

What do you think? Do you agree with my thoughts about budget and investment items for your home, or have a different opinion? Where you save and splurge on home decor will ultimately be a personal choice based on what factors are most important to you (value, decor style, craftsmanship, sustainability). It is also something that will probably change over time–it certainly has for me! I love having this conversation, so please share your thoughts below. I hope you found this post interesting and/or helpful as you decide where to save and splurge on home decor! XO,

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