When you’re planning or shopping for your dream home, the initial cost estimates can be a little steep - and, most of the time, very intimidating. As you scroll through the endless list of home items while furniture shopping, a few questions may come into mind, such as:

• Which home items are truly worth investing in?
• Should I cut some costs and take a more budget-friendly approach?
• What items should I look for at a bargain while furniture shopping?
• How do I know when timeless home decor pieces are worth it?

These questions are all valid, and we’re here to help you answer them. Furniture shopping and designing your home can be daunting tasks, especially for the first time. All you need to do is take a step back and take a look at the bigger picture. As always, it’s a case-by-case basis: sometimes it’s best to splurge, and you definitely deserve quality home items for your dream living space. But other times, such as with timeless home decor, you can snatch a good deal too by buying cheaper or secondhand alternatives.

Why You Should Invest in High-Quality Home Items

When starting to decorate your personal space, the options are overwhelming at first. Ditch the Pinterest mood boards and Instagram influencers for a short time, and start to think of what you really want to coexist with. By taking this time to figure out what you want and need for your vision, you can figure out the home items you need to prioritize. This will make your future furniture shopping a breeze!

A few pieces of timeless home decor are definitely a must to make your space feel more comfortable and lived-in. But let’s think of the essentials first, before focusing on the trinkets and novelty pieces.

What makes your home feel like home?

Obviously, your house needs to feel like a living space. That means that your mattresses, couches, towels, furniture, bedding, and other personal items should be at the top of your list. These are the things that you want to invest in the most because you’ll be spending the majority of your time using them. It’s especially important with bedding, towels, and mattresses - definitely don’t buy these items secondhand (unless you want a lot of discomfort and regrets afterward).

Next on the list are your utility items and home goods. After furniture shopping, you’re definitely bound to wander into the dinnerware and cookware section. Sometimes you can get lucky and score a genuine cast iron pan or china sets at a vintage thrift store, but make sure you still get high-quality items that will last you a long time. Cheap kitchenware isn’t the best idea, and not to mention that it’s hardly sustainable to keep buying and throwing away metal pots and pans every couple of years. Figure out what you need for the lifestyle that you have, and only go furniture shopping for the things that you’ll definitely use a lot.

And to truly elevate your home, it’s really worth it to look at a few pieces of timeless home decor. These don’t have to be ostentatious or outrageously expensive, either - just small accents, centerpieces, and functionally beautiful items that can bring personality and purpose into your space.

You can never go wrong with tasteful and timeless home decor. Check out these curated pieces from Julie & Ev that are sure to brighten up any room and bring to life your vision for a perfect home.

The Best Home Items for Any Season

1. Large Higgins Teak Stand, $35

This wooden teak stand can be used for plants, ornaments, or other garden items you want to show off. This item is great if you want some of your pots or vases to have a small boost in height. Encouraging elevation and levels in your garden is a great way to maximize space and draw the eye to certain elements!

2. Modern Faux Bois Vase, $190

The Modern Faux Bois Vase is a unique take on the traditional Faux Bois with its texture and shape that mimics a tree branch. You can use this as a centerpiece by placing dried (or live!) flowers and foliage to continue the nature theme.

3. Concrete Coat Faux Tree, $2,100

This coat tree combines beauty and functionality as it serves as a cool sculpture when it’s not being used. It’s made from concrete and iron which can guarantee a lifetime of reliable, sturdy use.

4. Barbados Bust in Plaster of Paris Finish, $745

If you’re into the whole Roman architecture look, this raw porcelain bust sculpture can be one of the most interesting items in your new home. It’s padded with felt at the bottom to protect your shelves or end tables, and the edgy hand-carved profile of the bust adds an additional layer of mystery and interest to your home.

5. Gold Vine Branch Sculpture, $315

If you prefer a statement piece that doesn’t take up much space, this golden wall piece is probably the best option for you. It’s sure to elevate any wall with its free-flowing design and universally flattering color.

6. Scarlett Mirror in Antique White, $770

It’s always a good idea to put a well-placed mirror in the entryway. This white accent mirror’s minimal design can fit into most home decor motifs yet it’s also captivating enough that you’d want to take a second look. It’s rounded and angular at the same time with just the right amount of detail to spark interest.

7. Maria Flor Pitcher, $105

This adorable floral pitcher is perfect for spring and outdoor parties, or just as a decoration piece on your table. It’s an easy way to brighten up your living space and add a touch of nature to your indoor abode!