Designers Say These Are the 7 Areas of the Home Where Clients Are Most Likely to Splurge
Decorating and furnishing an entire home is no small or inexpensive process, so clients undertaking major redesigns often have to be a bit picky about where they’re willing to spend a little extra.
“It goes without saying that kitchens and bathrooms are typically the two areas that people are willing to splurge on or put some type of investment into,” says designer Ashley Danielle Hunte of Style Meets Strategy. “It’s great for resale value in the future.”
But these definitely aren’t the only spaces where clients are willing to shell out a bit more cash. Apartment Therapy asked designers to weigh in on which areas are getting the most attention these days.
Kitchens
“That is usually the place of gathering in a home and where entertaining happens. Many kitchens are open concept, where the kitchen table becomes the focal point. Because of this, people are splurging on new tables, chairs, and bar stools to elevate the space. With kitchens being used as makeshift home offices, people are especially eager to upgrade the space.” —Designer Esther Dormer of Esther Dormer Design in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
“Clients are seeing beyond mere function, seeking custom cabinetry, zellige tile, and small indulgences such as built-in espresso machines, pot fillers, and pet stations for fur babies.” —Designer Dawn Heuer of Heuer Design Collective in Atlanta, Georgia
Recreation Spaces
“We have seen an interesting (and dare I say long overdue) trend in investing healthy portions of the budget into crazily fun playrooms/game rooms. These game rooms provide endless entertainment for every family member and have undeniably become a destination spot when entertaining.” —Designer Diane Rath of The Rath Project in New York and Connecticut
Home Offices
“Imagine your entire team looking at the background of your bare home office — no good! So when a stylish home office becomes the backdrop, you and your space are prepared to take on any virtual meeting, leaving your team and other colleagues in awe — and who wouldn’t want that?!” —Designer Justin Williams, “Design Star: Next Gen” cast member
Primary Bathrooms — Specifically the Tub
“Every primary bathroom I’ve designed in the last year features a luxurious bathtub. During a time when self-care has become more important than ever, people seem to be looking for ways to treat themselves at home. Soaking in a bath has proven health benefits and a gorgeous soaker tub offers homeowners a spa-like experience in the comfort of their own home. Plus, they look lovely when not in use!” —Designer Lindsey Gregg of LSG Interiors in Wilmington, North Carolina
Powder Rooms
“I think this is a surprising place that clients like to spend money. It feels contained and special. A spot to go a little wild with the design and really splurge on one or two elements, such as a marble sink, expensive mosaic tile, or wallpaper. ” —Designer Claire Staszak of Centered by Design in Chicago, Illinois
Primary Bedrooms
“More and more people are realizing it’s important to have a space that brings joy and peace of mind. A bedroom is just that — people look to their bedroom for their moment of downtime, quiet, and tranquility. People tend to say, ‘I want my room to feel like a hotel bedroom.’ The thought behind this is that hotel rooms are quality, comfortable, and have a luxurious feel. Sleeping in a well-designed hotel almost feels like the most luxurious sleep one has ever felt. Why not experience that every night? People are willing to splurge on a comfortable bed with quality bed linen that gives them exactly the feel they’re anticipating.” —Designer Ashley Danielle Hunte of Style Meets Strategy in New York City and Austin, Texas
Nurseries
“I would say that clients are most eager to spend on a nursery, as it is such an exciting time in their lives. They want to pull out all stops with no expenses spared. This includes wallpaper, carpeting, custom window treatments, and art. The end result is fit for a little prince or princess!” —Designer Jennifer Hunter of Jennifer Hunter Design in New York City
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