I’m excited to announce that I’m fully immersed in the process of building my dream home! It’s been quite a journey filled with tough decisions, from selecting floor plans to choosing appliances. Collaborating closely with my design team has been incredibly rewarding, although challenging at times. For real-time updates and all the juicy details, make sure to follow me on Instagram – I’ve been sharing most of the progress there! As I gear up to bid farewell to my current home over the next year, I thought it would be a great time to reflect on the renovations we’ve done here. These changes have truly transformed our first home into a space that we’ve loved and cherished. In today’s post, I’ll delve into the specifics of where we decided to cut costs and where we opted to splurge, especially focusing on areas like cabinets and decor. Join me as I share my insights on creating a home that strikes the perfect balance between functionality and luxury.

Where I Splurge…

Appliances

If you thought picking out the optimal wardrobe was hard, just wait until you have to shop for appliances. With a million brands and configurations on the market, it can be hard to choose the right appliances for your home. After much consideration and research, I am going with Wolf for key kitchen appliances like the oven range because they are known to last a lifetime. Splurging on high-quality appliances will save you money in the long-run! 

Cabinetry

Another area I recommend splurging on is cabinetry. For my new home, I’ll be going the custom route so each and every nook is perfectly tailored to the floor plan. Much like appliances, durable materials and superior craftsmanship ensure longevity, saving you money in the long run on repairs. This is also why I recommend choosing to splurge on cabinetry during remodels and renovations.

Countertops

Along with your cabinetry, your kitchen countertops are a long-term investment in your home. Opting for high-quality stone not only elevates the look of your kitchen but also ensures long-term resilience against daily wear and tear. Given that countertops withstand constant use, from cooking meals to entertaining guests, choosing durable materials is a smart move that pays off in terms of both aesthetics and practicality.

Light Fixtures

You might not realize how important lighting is in any space but it truly sets the tone for every room. As I reflect back on my home remodel, I’ve realized the importance of splurging on certain light fixtures. Statement pieces like chandeliers and pendant lighting can truly elevate a space. Investing in well-made pieces ensures they will make a lasting impression.

Where I Save…

Lighting (also a splurge)

On the other hand, I do believe you can save on certain lighting such as table lamps and sconces. There are so many stylish choices out there that don’t break the bank. Plus, should your tastes change later down the road, you can easily swap a table lamp for newer one in the matter of seconds. 

Hardware

You also don’t need to break your budget for hardware anymore. With today’s options, you can find high-quality pieces at affordable prices, maintaining both style and durability. This smart approach frees up your budget to invest in other essential aspects of your home while still achieving a chic finish.

Tile and Flooring

Another area where you can prioritize savings is in your flooring and backsplashes. Today, there are numerous affordable flooring options that offer durability and aesthetic appeal. Amazon, Lowes, Home Depot, and Wayfair all offer a wide range of budget-friendly flooring, from sleek tiles to durable laminate planks. Similarly, when it comes to backsplashes, consider cost-effective materials like ceramic or porcelain tiles, as well as peel-and-stick options.

Decorative Accents

Once you’ve selected your flooring and furniture, it’s time to turn your attention to the finer details. Decorative accents are the finishing touches that bring your space to life, allowing you to showcase your personality in every room. The best part? There are countless affordable pieces for decor, from stylish area rugs to chic vases, on Amazon and other budget-friendly retailers, like Wayfair.

Molding

Over time, I’ve also found that molding is a more subtle accent that doesn’t necessarily need to be top of the line. Plus, there are many affordable materials that mimic the appearance of more expensive designs, allowing you to achieve a high-end look for less.

xo, Maria

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