I’ve been an interior designer for years, but there are some things I won’t buy this year. I wouldn’t buy a stylish desk chair over a functional or high-maintenance plant. Skip the fast furniture. , mass-produced rugs, and single-purpose kitchenware.
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As an interior designer, I’m always on the lookout for items that combine value and style.
My goal this year is to focus on smart investments and prioritize lasting design elements that will stand the test of time, rather than chasing fads.
Here’s how to avoid wasting your money in 2024.
expensive brand ornaments
An expensive and exclusive name does not necessarily equal quality. That’s why I avoid overspending on famous ornaments because of the label.
For me, good design is about finding hidden gems that blend style and substance, regardless of the brand. I always keep an eye out for affordable items, and I also keep an eye out for more expensive items.
unergonomic office chair
Your office chair should be about comfort, not style. Morsa Images/Getty Images
When participating in remote work, it is very important to have a comfortable home office.
And while I too want a beautiful space, I’ve stopped splurging on an office chair just for the sake of beauty. Yes, I’m talking about you, a trendy velvet desk chair!
A good desk chair should be ergonomic and designed to allow you to sit for long periods of time.
Plants that require a lot of maintenance
This year, I’m avoiding plants that require constant attention and are high maintenance.
Instead, I incorporate low-maintenance greenery so I can breathe life into my space without the stress of heavy maintenance.
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Plastic plants can look cheap, so I’ve found dried flowers and branches to be reliable alternatives. They are perfect for those of us who cannot keep plants growing.
cheap mass produced rugs
Rather than succumbing to the lure of cheap, mass-produced rugs, invest in a durable, high-quality rug that will enhance the beauty of your space and stand up to daily wear and tear.
This way you won’t have to replace it as often.
excessive cushioning
Too many cushions can be overwhelming. Conkit Wiriya Chan/Getty Images
I love cushions, but not too much. This year, it is prohibited to have more than 3 cushions on the bed
I invest in quality over quantity and choose pillows that complement the space without overcrowding the couch or bed.
fast furniture
Throughout 2024, sustainability will be a top priority for me and I will be choosing furniture that is durable and in line with a more eco-friendly approach.
While a $300 sofa may seem appealing due to its affordability, mass-produced, fast furniture can deteriorate quickly and further contribute to a throwaway culture.
By choosing to pay more for products that are built to last, we prioritize quality and actively reduce waste.
Unnecessarily specialized kitchen equipment
Sorry, we’re not adding any more single-purpose gadgets to your kitchen arsenal.
While an avocado slicer or hot dog toaster may be tempting, I rely on multifunctional tools to keep my kitchen tidy.
