Save or Splurge? Money-Wise Makeover


As any home professional worth their salt will tell you, creating a budget is the first step in any home project. And unless you’re working with unlimited funds, it’s highly likely that compromises will have to be made along the way. This is why you should create a priority list—writing down all the things you “need” and all the things you “want,” then ranking them in order of importance. Getting clear on what’s most important to you and what you’re willing to compromise on from the outset prevents you from making snap decisions you might regret down the road.
With that said, when it comes to stretching your budget, knowing when you can pinch pennies and when you can’t is invaluable. That’s why we asked local professionals across various trades to share their expert advice on where to save and where to splurge.
LANDSCAPING
The Expert: Sheri Burke, Owner, Xscape Gardens, xscapegardens.com
SAVE: One-gallon plant pots.
Why? If there’s a choice between buying three-gallon versus one-gallon size plants, buy the one-gallon options, as plants will reach the three-gallon size within one to two growing seasons.
SPLURGE: Outdoor pots.
Why? A pot should act as a focal point, whether it’s displayed solo or alongside a cluster of pots of the same color. Designing with a big pot (minimum two-feet wide and two-feet-tall) allows you to install at least five to seven plants for a stunning display. A cluster of pots (minimum 16-inches wide and 18-inches tall) allows the same opportunity but uses up more space.

KITCHEN
The Expert: Susan Parker, Kitchen & Bath Designer Specialist, Kitchen Mart, kitchenmart.com
SAVE: If you don’t want to change the layout of your kitchen and the cabinets are in good condition, reface them instead of purchasing new.
Why? You’ll save money and time, and many convenience items can be changed or added within the existing footprint for improved use of space (i.e., trash and recycle centers, soft-close drawers and doors, full extension drawers, docking stations, and turntables). You’ll have a new kitchen without the expensive price tag.
SPLURGE: Functional design.
Why? If you have a pinch point in your home—a place where there’s often lots of traffic—the space can feel closed in, even when there's only one person in it. Other times, there might be an area where everyone seems to gather, but the room feels congested. In these cases, it’s well worth it to change the layout, eliminating the problem area and adding the necessary storage or counter space you need.
COUNTERTOPS
The Expert: Cathy Tonks, Owner & Lead Interior Designer, Designs With You in Mind, designswithyouinmind.net
SAVE: Prefab countertops.
Why? If you're doing a basic kitchen or bathroom remodel and your kitchen layout permits them, then prefab countertops are a way to save on the total cost of new countertops. Since the edges are prefabricated, your total material and labor costs will be lower. Keep in mind that this is typically best for spaces that aren't custom.

BATHROOM
The Expert: Cathy Tonks, Owner & Lead Interior Designer, Designs With You in Mind, designswithyouinmind.net
SPLURGE: Steam showers.
Why? Steam showers are a great way to have something at home for self-care and relaxation. It's the perfect way to get quiet time, meditate, and create a mindful space for yourself. Steam showers are also wonderful for your skin and for improving circulation.

INTERIOR DESIGN
The Expert: Tami Teel, Owner, Tami Teel Designs, tamiteeldesigns.com
SAVE: Area rugs.
Why? For active families or those with pets, area rugs are a smart commodity to save on, as they receive ample use and it’s likely they’ll be spilled on.
SPLURGE: Custom upholstery seating.
Why? To ensure maximum comfort and quality that will last for many years to come, custom upholstery is a big-ticket item that’s well worth the splurge.

WINDOW COVERINGS
The Expert: Steve Lentsch, Window Coverings Specialist, Performance Design, performancedesigncorp.hdwfdealer.com
SAVE: Curtains.
Why? There are a lot of affordable curtain options on the market today; you can get the look and feel you want, even at lower price points.
SPLURGE: Architella Honeycomb Shades.
Why? These are by far the most energy-efficient shades and can reduce the solar heat gain into a room by as much as 90% in the summer and the loss of heat through windows by as much as 80% in the winter. They also qualify for an energy efficiency tax credit of up to $1,200. These shades pay for themselves over time with the energy expense they’ll save you and the tax credit.
by Nelly Kislyanka
Xcape Gardens (top) photo by Sheri Burke. Kitchen Mart (bottom) photo by Hannah Howerton.
Designs With You in Mind (top) photo by Nicole Dianne Photo. Tami Teel Designs (middle) photo courtesy of Tami Teel. Curtain photo © Slanapotam - stock.adobe.com.