Interior design trends come and go, but those that improve functionality, enhance the aesthetic in unexpected ways, or simply make you fall in love with your home over and over again are worth the splurge.
Here are some design and decor indulgences that will make your life at home easier and more beautiful.
1. A flex room
The way to get more usable space from your home isn’t to build bigger; it’s to use space better. That’s why a flex room is worth every penny, because space seamlessly adapts on demand. Keep options open for different uses with neutral decor and multi-functional furniture.

2. High-quality paint
Color is transformative, It’s worth splurging on high-quality paint that is durable, easy to maintain and that lends itself to luxe applications.
“It’s not just wall colors, it's what you can do with the paint, and how you do accents. For example, paint the interior of cabinets to make them pop,” or use paint application techniques like Venetian plaster, says Gladys Schanstra, owner/creative director of Drury Design.
Enveloping a space with color drenching, or designing a rich, colorful accent wall are also indulgent, and effective ways to use paint.
3. Functional cabinetry upgrades
Builder-grade cabinets usually stop short of the ceiling, but it is worthwhile running them the full length of the wall. Not only does this look better, it adds storage, which is always a good thing in the kitchen.
Invest in upgrades inside drawers and cabinets, where smart storage solutions help conceal clutter, and enhance workflow in the kitchen by having high-touch tools at the ready. In-drawer spice racks, utensil dividers, appliance garages, built-in step stools, microwave and refrigerated drawers are all upgrades you will be glad that you made.
4. Natural stone
Natural stone, such as marble, soapstone and quartzite offer unique patterning and colors that you just don’t get with engineered stones. This one-of-a-kind quality instantly elevates your aesthetic and is a feature that will stand out to future buyers.
“Natural stone is becoming a superstar of the space. It's almost like a painting or artwork. It is being used not just on countertops, but with backsplash and walls,” says Schanstra.
5. Heated floors
Heated floors in your bathroom, where hard surfaces abound, is the kind of splurge that inspires daily gratitude for how they enhance comfort and a spa-like feel.
“It's definitely a luxurious feeling to wake up and have heated floors on a timer and you're not walking on cold tiles,” says Schanstra. If you are really keen, extend the heating to shower benches, so you’ve got a warm perch while showering.
6. Small touches are a big deal
Sometimes the best splurges seem insignificant until you realize how their functionality fills in gaps in your workflow at home, or how much they add to the decor with little effort.
Small upgrades with big impact include pedal garbage cans, in-counter knife blocks, touchless faucets, built-in vanity chargers, heated towel bars and shower niches, just to name a few.
Statement light fixtures, because they are easily changeable, and have dramatic impact as focal points are another favorite splurge, states Schanstra. She also recommends luxe hardware in the kitchen, especially if you are trimming the budget in other areas in that space.
7. Decor that brings you joy
Decor and design that delivers joy daily, such as original artwork, nostalgic decor, vintage pieces that spark conversation, or furniture that you relish the thought of reclining on every evening, is absolutely worth it. These splurges make life better in meaningful, consistent ways.
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Heather Wright
Heather Wright is a journalist with a background in real estate reporting and home design, décor and architecture. A design enthusiast and trend spotter, her work has appeared in various lifestyle publications across North America, with a focus on emerging trends and tech in design, sustainability, home renovations and new home construction. In addition to lifestyle writing, Heather's portfolio extends to personal and corporate finance and mining and resources.