When it comes to interiors, it’s not always about what the piece is—it’s about how it’s made. Mixing highs and lows is one of my favorite strategies because what truly matters are the elements that define whether something feels luxury or budget-friendly.
Sometimes a piece carries a high price tag for no real reason. That’s when sourcing becomes crucial. It’s the same way you might compare two basic T-shirts: one might be made with noticeably better fabric, while the other looks almost identical but doesn’t have the same lasting quality. If you only need it for a short time, investing big isn’t necessary.
My rule of thumb? Splurge on the pieces where quality is visible or makes a big difference in how the space feels and functions. For example—marble. It’s one of my favorite elements to bring into a design. Real marble, sourced from a high-end supplier, often stands out from faux marble. You can tell by the weight, the grain, and the finish. With my clients, this is something I usually recommend investing in—unless I can find a really good, cost-friendly alternative.
But here’s the thing: pricing is relative. What’s considered “high” to one person may be “low” to another. A $1,200 marble coffee table might feel like a budget piece to someone who’s eyeing the $3,000 version. Meanwhile, another person might see that same $1,200 table as a huge splurge compared to a $300 option. It’s all perspective—and it’s all about your personal budget.
And don’t be fooled—sometimes the price tag has more to do with the vendor than with actual quality. A retailer’s branding and reputation can drive up costs without adding more style or durability to the piece. That’s why sourcing smartly matters. With today’s resources, there’s almost always a way to achieve the look you want without overspending.
The key is knowing when to go high and when you can go low. If it’s something you’ll use every day, sit on often, or expect to last through wear and tear—invest in quality. But if it’s not noticeable or you’re okay with replacing it down the line, save your coins.
At the end of the day, mixing highs and lows allows you to create a balanced, beautiful space that looks elevated while staying true to your budget.
Ready to design a space that feels luxurious without unnecessary splurges? Let’s work together to create a plan that balances smart sourcing with timeless style.