16 Things You Should Always Buy For Your Home, According To Interior Designers (Plus 5 Secret Gems)
What really makes a house feel like home? It’s not just the furniture or the layout it’s the thoughtful pieces that bring warmth, function, and personality to every corner.
I’ve rounded up expert-backed essentials interior designers swear by, plus five under-the-radar gems that quietly work magic.
Whether you’re after comfort, style, or that lived-in charm, these picks will help turn any space into one that feels truly yours. Let’s dive into the must-haves that make everyday living feel a little more special.
1. Quality Sofa
Where do most memories unfold at home? For me, it’s on the sofa. A well-chosen, quality sofa becomes the anchor of your living room, setting the mood for movie nights, long chats, and quiet afternoons.
If you value comfort, sturdy craftsmanship is essential. Look for solid frames and durable upholstery that feels inviting to touch. The right sofa combines support with softness.
A timeless design ensures the piece doesn’t go out of style. Did you know vintage Chesterfields were first made for aristocrats who wanted to sit upright without wrinkling their clothes? That’s history and function combined!
2. Timeless Area Rug
It’s wild how much an area rug can shift the entire mood of a room. Anchoring furniture while adding warmth underfoot, a great rug is a designer’s secret for tying elements together.
If you opt for a timeless design, patterns and colors hold up through trends. I love those hand-knotted pieces that whisper stories from distant lands.
Where vintage rugs once signified status, today they reflect personal taste and attention to detail. Fun fact: Some Persian rugs can take years to make, each knot carefully crafted by hand!
3. Solid Wood Dining Table
When family or friends gather, are you ever drawn to the heart of the action? For me, it’s always the dining table. Solid wood tables stand strong through generations every scratch becomes a memory.
Did you know? Oak and walnut are favorites for their resilience and beauty. I enjoy the way sunlight dances on the natural grain.
Choosing a good table means picking one that’s sturdy and feels welcoming. A classic shape fits almost any style, from modern farmhouse to crisp minimalism.
4. Comfortable Mattress
How often do you think about your mattress? For me, waking up rested is worth every penny, so comfort rules above all. Interior designers always stress investing here—sleep is sacred.
If you want true relaxation, choose a mattress with the right support for your sleeping style. Memory foam or hybrid? Test them yourself.
Did you know people spend about a third of their lives sleeping? That’s why designers say a comfortable mattress isn’t just luxury, it’s necessity!
5. Statement Light Fixture
Why settle for plain when you can add a hint of drama? I love how one striking light fixture can instantly change the ambiance of a space.
It’s not about being flashy; it’s about finding a piece that feels like art. Whether sparkling chandelier or modern pendant, look for a fixture that draws the eye and starts conversations.
Some designers call lighting the ‘jewelry’ of the home. A unique fixture doesn’t just illuminate—it creates a mood and makes memories shine brighter.
6. Classic White Bedding
If you crave a hotel-like escape every night, nothing beats fresh white bedding. I find the clean simplicity instantly soothing after a long day.
Where patterns might distract, white offers a blank canvas for any style. Layer on textures—quilts, throws, or embroidered shams—for a personal touch.
Did you know? Crisp white sheets were once a sign of luxury, signaling a home that prized cleanliness and comfort. Today, they’re timeless, always in style, and endlessly comforting.
7. Functional Storage Furniture
How do you keep chaos at bay? For me, storage furniture is a lifesaver. Designers swear by pieces that hide clutter without sacrificing style.
If you’re short on space, opt for ottomans with hidden compartments or sideboards with adjustable shelves. Function meets beauty!
Did you know a tidy home can reduce stress? The right storage furniture quietly keeps things organized, so your mind feels as clear as your space.
8. Original Artwork or Prints
When was the last time a piece of art made you pause? For me, artwork sparks creativity and adds soul to any room. Designers always include at least one piece that feels personal.
If originals are out of reach, choose prints that resonate with you. Mixing pieces gives your space depth and character.
Fun fact: Many interior designers collect works from local artists. Supporting creativity in your community adds a layer of meaning to your décor.
9. Well-made Curtains or Window Treatments
Are windows the eyes of your home? I think so. Curtains frame your view and control light, so they deserve attention.
It’s best to choose quality fabrics linen or velvet for a look that feels rich and lasts. Designers often recommend hanging curtains high and wide to heighten the room’s feel.
Did you know? Well-chosen window treatments can save energy by keeping rooms cool in summer and warm in winter, making them beautiful and practical.
10. Durable Cookware
If you love to cook or even just reheat takeout, nothing beats durable cookware. For me, a good pan makes every meal feel like an occasion.
Where cheap pots fail, quality ones distribute heat evenly and last for years. Designers suggest stainless steel or cast iron for reliability.
Fun fact: Some families pass down favorite skillets for generations, each meal adding a little more seasoning and story.
11. Neutral Paint Colors
When walls need a refresh, I always lean toward neutral paint colors. These shades offer calm and versatility—rooms feel open, welcoming, and easy to personalize.
If you like to swap décor often, neutrals are your friend. Designers love how they make spaces look larger and brighter.
Did you know certain neutrals, like greige, have trended for decades? They bridge warm and cool tones, making it easy to change up your style.
12. Indoor Plants or Greenery
Did you ever notice how a touch of green brings life to a space? I find indoor plants instantly lift my mood and purify the air.
Whether you have a green thumb or not, there’s a plant for every level of care. Designers suggest clustering a few to create a mini indoor jungle.
Fun fact: NASA once studied houseplants for their ability to filter toxins. Turns out, greenery isn’t just pretty—it’s practical!
13. Full-length Mirror
Where do you check your outfit before heading out? A full-length mirror is indispensable. For me, it doubles as décor and a tool for brightening small rooms.
If you place it opposite a window, it bounces sunlight around, giving the illusion of more space. Designers use mirrors to enhance both function and beauty.
Did you know antique mirrors were once considered luxury items? Today, a full-length style is accessible and transformative for any home.
14. Accent Chairs
Are you ever drawn to a cozy little corner? Accent chairs beckon guests and add a playful pop to any room. I love how different shapes and fabrics can set the mood instantly.
When you pick a chair that feels special, it brings energy to the whole space. Designers mix and match styles for interest.
Did you know the classic ‘wingback’ chair was invented to shield users from chilly drafts? Now, accent chairs are all about personality and comfort!
15. Throw Pillows and Blankets
If you crave instant coziness, a few well-chosen throw pillows and blankets do the trick. For me, swapping textures or colors is an easy refresh.
When seasons change, so can your accessories. Designers love using pillows as a way to play with trends without a huge commitment.
Did you know some cultures believe handcrafted textiles bring good luck? I like to think every pillow or throw adds a touch of warmth and story to a room.
16. Books for Display and Reading
Where do stories come alive in your home? For me, nothing beats displaying favorite books. Designers often scatter books throughout a space to add color, personality, and instant conversation starters.
If you’re a collector, arrange books by color or size for visual interest. A stack here or a shelf there feels inviting.
Did you know famed designer Billy Baldwin was rarely without a book in hand? He believed every room deserved the warmth and intellect only books can bring.
17. Antique Side Table (Secret Gem)
How do you add charm in a flash? For me, an antique side table feels like a hidden treasure. Designers hunt for these one-of-a-kind pieces at flea markets and estate sales.
It’s amazing how one tiny table brings history and elegance to modern spaces. Mix old and new for a look that’s both layered and interesting.
Did you know some side tables were designed to hold only a single cup of tea? That’s attention to detail from a bygone era!
18. Custom-made Cushions (Secret Gem)
When seeking comfort that fits just right, custom-made cushions come to mind. For me, these are the ultimate in personal luxury—tailored to your taste and needs.
If you want something truly special, pick out fabrics that reflect your personality or match a tricky color scheme. Designers love the flexibility custom cushions bring.
Fun fact: Some ateliers still hand-stitch every seam, ensuring each cushion is a tiny work of art. That’s craftsmanship you can feel every time you sit.
19. Vintage Bar Cart (Secret Gem)
Why not make every gathering feel glamorous? I find a vintage bar cart adds instant sophistication and fun. Designers scout for these at auctions and vintage shops each cart tells a story.
It’s not just for cocktails. Use it for coffee, tea, or even a mobile dessert station. Rolling a party from room to room is half the fun!
Did you know bar carts first became popular during the 1920s? They’re still icons of entertaining and style today.
20. Handwoven Baskets (Secret Gem)
Where do style and storage meet? For me, handwoven baskets are that magical intersection. Designers use them for everything—taming clutter, storing throws, or displaying plants.
It’s the artisanal touch that makes baskets special. Each one feels unique and adds texture to any room. I like to group a few in high-traffic spots for easy access.
Did you know basket weaving is one of the oldest crafts in human history? Every basket is a piece of tradition.
21. Unique Ceramic Vases (Secret Gem)
If you want to spark curiosity in your décor, unique ceramic vases are perfect. For me, each one feels like a tiny sculpture—no two are ever the same.
When you support local potters, you bring artistry and originality into your home. Designers love clustering a few vases for impact.
Did you know ancient civilizations crafted vases both for function and as works of art? Collecting a few adds depth and personality to any room.
