The Designer’s Blueprint → The 70/30 Rule of Home Investment

One of the biggest anxieties homeowners face when starting a design project is the budget.

There’s a quiet fear that to achieve a “professional” or "elevated" look, everything has to be expensive. That if you don’t splurge across the board, the space won’t feel cohesive, intentional, or complete.

Here’s the truth → great design isn’t about spending more. It’s about spending intentionally.

In our work, we use a simple but powerful framework to guide those decisions: The 70/30 Rule.

What Is the 70/30 Rule?

The idea is straightforward:

• 70% of your budget is allocated to foundational pieces

• 30% of your budget is reserved for flexible style layers

The 70% : Where to Splurge (Foundation + Longevity) These are the pieces that anchor your home and take the most daily wear. Durability, structure, and quality matter most here.

The 30% : Where to Save (Style + Flexibility) These pieces bring personality and visual interest but don’t require long-term commitment.

Seating + Comfort Sofas and sectionals Armchairs used daily Dining chairs Window seats or built-in cushions Mattresses Structural Furniture Dining tables Bed frames (especially upholstered or platform styles) Dressers and chests Credenzas and media consoles Built-in cabinetry and shelving Flooring + Surfaces Hardwood or high-quality engineered wood flooring Tile and stone flooring Carpet or stair runners Rugs (Primary Rugs) Living room, dining room, and bedroom rugs Lighting (Hard-Wired) Chandeliers Pendants Recessed lighting plans Sconces Outdoor architectural lighting Kitchens + Baths (Core Elements) Cabinetry Countertops Sinks, tubs, and plumbing fixtures Tile

Accent Furniture Side tables Accent tables Nightstands Occasional chairs Ottomans and poufs Textiles + Soft Goods Throw pillows and pillow covers Throws and blankets Bedding Table linens Bath textiles Curtains Decor + Styling Vases, trays, and bowls Shelf styling pieces Books Wall Decor (Secondary Layers) Frames Decorative mirrors Wall hangings Secondary Lighting Table lamps Floor lamps Plug-in sconces Under-cabinet lighting Kitchens + Baths Cabinet hardware Mirrors (oversized) Plants + Greenery Faux plants Planters and plant stands Storage + Organization (Non-Built-In) Baskets Bins Drawer dividers Closet accessories

Honorable Mention → Art

For us, art doesn’t fit neatly into one category . . . and that’s intentional. We’re not above thrifting, printing our own photography, or creating art ourselves.

At the same time, we deeply value investing in original work from local and independent artists. Larger-scale or commissioned art often functions like a foundation piece because it anchors a room visually, guides color and mood, adds depth and individuality, and holds long-term design value.

Our recommendation → a mix. One or two intentional art investments layered with accessible, personal finds keeps a home feeling collected, not overproduced.

Why This Framework Matters

Most homeowners don’t overspend because they want luxury. They overspend because they don’t have priorities. Without a clear system:

• Budgets get exhausted too early

• Foundational pieces are compromised

• Rooms feel unfinished

• Replacements happen sooner than expected

This 70/30 framework is something we apply across every project — from boutique design to full-service interiors and professional organizing.

When budgets are guided by clarity instead of impulse, the result is a home that feels thoughtful, cohesive, and designed to last.