How to stretch your dollar decorating, according to decorators Nate and Jeremiah

Celebrity decorators Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent have more than just a few things on their plate. Between the recent birth of their second child, Oskar; their adorable three-year-old, Poppy; a complete remodel of their new forever home; and multiple design projects and decor collections in the works, you’d think they had their hands full already. But the couple also recently wrapped up season two of their TLC show, Nate and Jeremiah by Design.

In it, Brent and Berkus help homeowners who are in over their heads with renovations and use the leftover budget to bring the project to completion (and do it in style, too).

The couple’s bubbly personalities make for great TV, but the show is also full of handy tips for making a dollar go further in a renovation project. These are Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent’s best decorating tips.

Make your dollar go further

You guys are incredible at making a homeowner’s dollar go further. What are your top three tricks for stretching a dollar when decorating?

Nate Berkus: Shop for special materials and finishes online. Backsplash tile, hardware, cutting boards, mirrors—there are so many beautiful options out there that you can find for prices that don’t have to break the bank.

Don’t skimp on construction. The truth is the basis of any renovation has to be done correctly the first time, so a licensed, reputable contractor is always a must.

Spend money on items that have a big decorative impact, and go basic in construction materials. Think plain subway tile with a set of beautiful towels or a small and interesting vintage table next to a simple white bathtub.

Jeremiah Brent: Reuse what you love, and repurpose it. A little imagination can go a long way in making something feel fresh and new.

Prioritise. Invest in pieces that are timeless and transitional, e.g., sofa and chairs—big-ticket items that will give the biggest visual impact. Throw pillows and accessories can be less expensive and can serve as a great opportunity to play with trends and what’s hot.

Don’t be afraid to play with paint. Everyone says it, but that’s because it’s true. Paint is the most inexpensive way to change your home. Additionally, you can play with different motifs and paint lines to add architecture and personality to your space.

Focus on one room only

When decorating an entire house on a budget, which room deserves your attention the most?

NB: I’d say the kitchen, as it’s one of the hardest-working spaces in the home.

JB: It entirely depends on you. Ask yourself this: Where do you spend the most time, and where do you get centred? I firmly believe in always creating a space that can be a sanctuary wherever or whomever it’s for. For example, for parents, I always suggest starting with the master bedroom—an unpopular belief, but the truth is that you need a place to collect yourself, recalibrate, and have the space to tackle the responsibility of kids, family, and work.

Don’t skimp on important pieces

In your opinion, which items can be purchased on a budget, and which ones are worth the investment?

NB: Don’t skimp on anything built-in, like the countertops, appliances, plumbing, etc. Rugs and pillows are a great place to go for a deal, as are lighting options and accessories.

JB: Invest in these key pieces: sofas, chairs, dining table. The pieces that are going to get the most use. If you’re working with a tight budget, don’t stress about the small stuff like pillows, candles, bowls, and other accessories.

Pay attention to details

When picking out furniture, are there any fabrics or materials to avoid? What should you look for instead?

NB: Prints are tough on large-scale furniture—keep your sofa (and other large-scale items) in the basics. Linens and cottons in solids can be dressed up or down easily and tend to look expensive.

JB: Honestly, no. It’s all in the eye of the beholder. For example, I don’t prefer ultra-suede, but you may love it. My recommendation is to get a fabric swatch and really pay attention to the details of the piece’s construction.

Splurge on big statement pieces

If you only buy one high-end item for your house, what should it be and why?

NB: A vintage or antique gilt mirror. You will ALWAYS find a place for it, no matter where you move or how your home evolves.

JB: A great sofa or an amazing light. Both items can transition seamlessly with you through the many chapters of your life.

Mix in vintage items

Designers often say not to push furniture against the wall in a room. What are other layout tricks that make a room look more high-end?

NB: Mix old pieces in with new ones. Vintage finds have a patina that makes a room look collected and assembled over time.

JB: I don’t believe that anything looks more high-end than a room that feels curated. When furniture isn’t a full set and feels assembled, it inherently feels like you have been collecting items for years. Explore and experiment—even if you do happen to buy a full furniture set, spread the pieces among different rooms and mix with different accessories.

– This originally appeared on My Domaine