High-End Design on a Budget

July 15, 2015

This post first appeared on Wandeleur.com. A lovely and inspiring lifestyle site based in Chicago, where I occasionally contribute design focused features.

High-End Design on a Budget

Luxury interior design services may be out of reach for some of us, at the moment at least, but that doesn’t mean you can’t access high-end designers and their impeccable style. Well-respected designers often take their eye for interior design into product development, especially home décor, and if you know where to look and shop, you’ll up your decorating game in no time.

Do a Little Internet Research 

If you’re clueless about top interior designers, I recommend heading to Amazon and searching through best selling interior design books. If a designer has authored a book, there’s a higher likelihood that they are working with brands on products too. Google the names of designers you respond to and look for inspiring imagery of their spaces. See if they have any product lines available to the masses. If they do, start browsing online and save products images/links that you love.

Buy Their Book

Yes, of course there is always Pinterest, but a hardcover interior design book full of amazing photography and tips from the designer him/herself is so much better. When you can view multiple spaces designed by the same person, and “hear” their voice you get a much clearer idea of their design style and aesthetic. Designers have authored these books to help and inspire you, take their professional advice and see what resonates!

Shop ’til You Drop

Now that you’ve determined the designer whose style you love most, find a few of their home décor products/lines to build the foundation for your new “look.” Maybe it’s geometric bedding by Nate Berkus from Target, Candice Olson’s transitional area rugs for Wayfair, or Kelly Wearstler’s china for Pickard to re-vamp the dinning room. Use these item/s as a starting point to create a space that you love, and that has some serious high-end taste! It’s almost as good as going shopping with Nate, Candice or Kelly by your side.

Designers of Note

I’ve picked three designers I personally admire (one that I’m interning for this summer!), each with their own product lines, to illustrate what to look for and where to find inspiration for your own space. With a little thoughtful planning, Internet research and a few quick steps you can discover a new decorating style that you love, and may very well be achievable within your budget.

 

NATE BERKUS high end design on a budget_CBD

 

Nate Berkus was a regular design contributor to The Oprah Show, and went on to have his own talk show; “The Nate Berkus Show.” He has authored two books “Home Rules” and “The Things That Matter.” He has a home décor line available at Target, fabrics available through Jo-Ann’s and Calico Corners, and you can shop his personal antique picks on 1stdibs. Images via nateberkus.com and Target.com.

KellyWearstler_centered by design high-end design on a budget

L.A. based designer, Kelly Wearstler, is known for her distinctive sophisticated style. A branding virtuoso, Wearstler has branding and product deals with a large variety of companies and her own line of products. Her brand’s flagship store is located on Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles, and she has published four coffee table books: Rhapsody, HUE, Domicilium Decoratus, and Modern Glamour: The Art of Unexpected Style. View all Kelly’s Collaborations. Images via http://www.kellywearstler.com.

Candice_Olson_centered by design

Candice Olson is best known as a TV personality for HGTV’s Candice Tells All, Divine Design and as a judge on HGTV Design Star. She has authored more than five books and in 2005 she launched “The Candice Olson Collection” – a brand of home décor products such as wallpaper, lighting, rugs, bedding and more. Images via www.candiceolson.com and www.wayfair.com.

Which designer’s style appeals to you most here? Who are some of your other favorite high-end designers? Let me know if you got any leads on affordable decor products with high-end style!

XO – Claire

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Meet Claire

Claire’s creative energy comes from her unique perspective on the world as both a trained interior designer and a passionate yoga teacher. Her affinity for kitchen design, timeless style and eclectic decorating are shared here, along with lots of interior design education and tips. Thanks for being here, please enjoy!


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