Where to Splurge vs. Save in a Home Renovation (Without Sacrificing Style)
Renovating a home is part dream, part budget dance. The good news? You don’t need to spend a fortune to create a stunning, elevated space—you just need to know where to invest and where to edit. Here's our guide to what’s worth the splurge (and what isn’t) when you're renovating with style in mind.
✅ SPLURGE: Custom Millwork & Trim
Crisp baseboards, ceiling details, and paneled walls can instantly elevate a space, even when the furnishings are simple. Custom millwork gives your home character, depth, and that "designer touch" you can't buy off the shelf.
Pro tip: Paint your trim in a contrasting or moodier tone for a high-impact finish.
💸 SAVE: Paint
Yes, paint transforms a room—but that doesn’t mean you need to spend big. Most premium brands have mid-range lines that perform beautifully. The magic is in the color selection, not the price tag.
Designer secret: Sample at least 3 shades per room and always test in natural light before committing.
✅ SPLURGE: Hardware & Fixtures
Cabinet knobs. Drawer pulls. Faucets. These are the jewelry of your home. Investing in solid, well-designed pieces makes even budget cabinetry look custom and curated.
Look for: Weighty finishes (like unlacquered brass or polished nickel) and unique shapes that add personality.
💸 SAVE: Tile in Low-Impact Areas
Love a show-stopping tile? Use it as a feature (like behind a range or in a powder room) and balance it with a more affordable, timeless field tile elsewhere. Subway tile, for example, never goes out of style.
Tile trick: Stack or arrange inexpensive tile in unexpected patterns (like vertical or herringbone) to give it a designer edge.
✅ SPLURGE: Lighting
Lighting changes everything. Go bold with a sculptural pendant or timeless with layered sconces and dimmers. This is one area where high design meets function—and where cheap shows fast.
Aim for: At least three light sources per room to avoid harsh shadows and create warmth.
💸 SAVE: Vanity Cabinets
Custom vanities are gorgeous—but you can absolutely create a luxury look using semi-custom options or repurposed furniture with a new top. Just make sure the proportions work for your space.
Bonus: Swap in upgraded hardware and a high-end faucet for instant impact.
✅ SPLURGE: Countertops in Key Areas
Your kitchen island or primary bath vanity? These are statement zones. Go ahead and invest in natural stone or a high-quality quartz that sets the tone for the entire room.
Think of it as: A focal point—like an outfit’s statement necklace.
💸 SAVE: Decor (At First)
You don’t have to decorate all at once. Let the renovation breathe, and collect meaningful, beautiful pieces over time. A mix of high and low, old and new, creates a space that feels authentic—not overly staged.
Smart renovations are about balance. Splurge where the quality makes a difference. Save where you can get the look for less. With the right mix, you’ll get a home that looks like a million bucks—without spending it.
Love,
Lindsay