Skip to content
Kerrie Kelly Studio
  • About
  • Partners
  • Project Portfolio
  • Press
  • Journal
    • Journal
    • Newsletter
  • Contact Us
  • About
  • Partners
  • Project Portfolio
  • Press
  • Journal
    • Journal
    • Newsletter
  • Contact Us
Follow Along
Blog,Design

Splurge or Save? A Designer’s Take

Managing a budget doesn't mean sacrificing luxury.

While attending KBIS 2024, we jumped into the NKBA’s Luxury Lounge with Carisha Swanson from House Beautiful for a panel discussion on how experts determine where to splurge and save when it comes to interior design. 

In this blog, we’ll dive into the world of luxury design, exploring 7 savvy ways to splurge and save without compromising style. Whether you’re revamping a cozy nook or tackling a grand renovation, there are ways you can streamline or spend to achieve that picture-perfect space.

1. Statement Pieces: elevate with splurge-worthy designs

Why they’re important: Statement pieces serve as focal points, elevating the overall aesthetic of your space and setting the tone for your design.

Product Spotlight:
HESTAN HOME CAMPANIA PIZZA OVEN

Product Spotlight:
HESTAN HOME 48" 5-Burner Dual Fuel Range with 12" Griddle

Let’s talk about making your space stand out in style. Investing in statement pieces can really amp up the wow factor. Picture a stunning range in your kitchen or an outdoor pizza oven for those cozy backyard gatherings. These are the elements that make your space pop, so it’s worth splurging a bit here to set the tone.

2. Customized Elements: save on ready-made options

Why it’s important: Customized elements add a personal touch to your space, but ready-made options can offer similar luxury without the hefty price tag.

Who doesn’t love a touch of personalization? But custom designs can put a dent in your wallet. Lucky for us, there are plenty of ready-made options that still scream luxury without the hefty price tag. So, save a bit here and still get that bespoke feel you’re after.

Product Spotlight:
Phillip Jeffries Wallpaper | Vinyl Glam Grass - Snowfall

Product Spotlight:
Corsa Collection by Belwith Keeler

3. Architectural Icons: embracing character & sophistication

Why it’s important: Architectural features contribute to the personality and sophistication of your space, making it worth splurging on these details to create a luxurious ambiance.

Let’s talk about those little details that make a big impact. Think intricate moldings or those dreamy coffered ceilings. These architectural features add oodles of character and sophistication to your space. It’s definitely worth splurging a bit to make your home feel truly special.

Design Spotlight: Prairie Homes
The Wooded Craftsman | Hugo, MN

@PrairieHomes

4. Building Materials: luxe looks, smart savings

Why it’s important: Choosing the right materials is key to achieving a high-end look without overspending. By opting for durable, high-quality materials, you can mimic the look and feel of luxury options without breaking the bank.

Save by carefully selecting materials like stone veneer and quartz that offer the same aesthetic appeal as more expensive options. These budget-friendly alternatives will help you achieve the luxurious look you desire without blowing your budget.

Product Spotlight: Eldorado Stone's Farola - LoreioBrick

Product Spotlight:
Ethereal by Silestone & HybriQ® and HybriQ+® technologies

5. SmartHome Tech: focus on functional essentials

Why it’s important: Integrating technology into your home can enhance functionality and convenience, but it doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

Product Spotlight:
Robern AiO Collection

Product Spotlight:
Hunter Douglas Automated Window Shades

Save by strategically investing in key technology components like appliances and lighting. By choosing smart, energy-efficient options, you can enjoy the benefits of modern technology without blowing your budget.

6. Colorful Impact: injecting personality and vibrancy

Why it’s important: Adding pops of color to your space can instantly transform it, giving it personality and vibrancy.

Splurge on colorful upgrades like appliances or cabinetry to inject personality into your design. Just remember to keep the rest of your design cohesive and streamlined to avoid overwhelming the space.

Product Spotlight:
HESTAN Home
Outdoor Kitchen Suite | Sol

Product Spotlight:
Fabuwood Allure Cabinets / Galaxy / Indigo

7. Sustainability: investing in a healthier environment

Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in design, and investing in eco-friendly materials and practices can add a luxurious, eco-conscious touch to your space.

Product Spotlight:
Crackle Collection by Kohler Waste Lab

Product Spotlight:
TimberTech - Antique Leather Reserve Collection

Why it’s important: Splurge on sustainable materials to create a healthier, more environmentally friendly home. Not only will you be doing your part for the planet, but you’ll also be adding a touch of luxury to your design.

Love what you see? There's more where that came from.

Subscribe to Designed to Elevate, our monthly newsletter that stimulates the senses
for all things design, lifestyle, flavor and more.
Click to Subscribe

Keep the Creativity Flowing

Kerrie breaks down foundational concepts of design in these articles. For the design pros and design curious alike, these articles are full of tips and tricks to help you transform your space.

Pottery Barn’s Accessible Home Collection

How To Style Your Bookshelves Like a Designer

Transforming Your Outdoor Space for Spring

PrevPrev
NextNext
Kerrie Kelly
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service
  • Site Credit

Creative insights, straight to your inbox.

Contact
Design
The Studio
Press
Collaborations
Connect
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Pinterest
  • YouTube

Kerrie Kelly © 2012-2025, All Rights Reserved

Kerrie Kelly
  • Design
  • Lifestyle
  • About
  • Journal
  • Design
  • Lifestyle
  • About
  • Journal
  • Media
  • Collaborations
  • Press
  • Contact
  • Media
  • Collaborations
  • Press
  • Contact