HomeGoods Finds That Make Your Home Look 'Expensive'

Designers share their top picks for affordable yet high-quality home decor items at the popular retailer.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 7:30pm

A vibrant, high-contrast silkscreen print featuring a repeated image of a decorative vase in shades of bright blue, pink, and yellow, conceptually representing the variety of chic and budget-friendly home accents available at HomeGoods.HomeGoods' ever-changing selection of stylish and affordable home decor items allows designers and homeowners to discover unique pieces that can elevate any space.Chicago Today

Interior designers reveal their favorite HomeGoods finds, from coffee table books and throw pillows to lighting and artificial plants, that can help elevate the look of any home on a budget. The experts highlight how the retailer offers a wide selection of stylish and durable home goods that can add personality and warmth to a space without requiring a full renovation.

Why it matters

HomeGoods has become a go-to destination for designers and homeowners alike who are looking to furnish and decorate their spaces affordably without sacrificing quality or style. The retailer's ever-changing inventory allows shoppers to discover unique, globally-inspired pieces that can complement higher-end custom decor, making it possible to create a polished, expensive-looking home on a budget.

The details

According to the designers interviewed, some of the top HomeGoods categories to shop include books, baskets, stone decor items like trays and bowls, lamps, throw pillows, artwork and frames, and artificial plants and planters. The experts note that HomeGoods often carries products from well-known brands like Ralph Lauren and Visual Comfort at significantly discounted prices compared to retail. They also recommend keeping an eye out for limited-edition and globally-inspired pieces that can add personality to a space.

  • HomeGoods has been a go-to destination for designers and homeowners for years.
  • The retailer's inventory is constantly changing, so shoppers need to visit frequently to discover new hidden gems.

The players

Jennifer Pacca

An interior designer who recommends HomeGoods for its quality and value, especially in categories like sheets, towels, and blankets.

Jessica Dorling

The owner and principal designer of Seattle-based Dorling Design Studio, who loves sourcing coffee table books and other designer-approved decor items at HomeGoods.

Jody Jones

A Chicago-based interior designer and the founder of Blue Indigo Designs, who sources 'finishing pieces' like baskets, picture frames, and blankets from HomeGoods.

Jennifer Beget

A Scottsdale-based designer who loves finding stone decor items and high-end lighting at discounted prices at HomeGoods.

Sarah Bowman

An Atlanta-based interior designer who frequently finds great accent pillows at HomeGoods for under $30 per pillow.

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What they’re saying

“'I recommend this category as they have great options and are typically less expensive than you would find elsewhere.'”

— Jennifer Pacca, Interior Designer

“'I love picking up coffee table books; they always have a great assortment of designer titles, both current and classic. It's also a great way to build a collection and style different areas of the home, not just the coffee table.'”

— Jessica Dorling, Owner and Principal Designer, Dorling Design Studio

“'When we're preparing for our final installation, we love to pop into HomeGoods for baskets, picture frames, and blankets. While we always make a beeline for the larger baskets, we cannot resist taking a walk around the store for any hidden gems.'”

— Jody Jones, Interior Designer and Founder, Blue Indigo Designs

“'[Think] marble bowls, travertine trays, catch-alls, soap dispensers, or serving trays—real stone items that have a purpose and job (not random kitchy decor). They are a great investment because they will last, and they never go out of style.'”

— Jennifer Beget, Interior Designer

“'I generally find great accent pillows without spending more than $30 (per pillow) to complete the room.'”

— Sarah Bowman, Interior Designer

The takeaway

HomeGoods has become a go-to destination for designers and homeowners looking to elevate their spaces on a budget. The retailer's ever-changing inventory of high-quality, stylish home goods - from furniture and decor to tabletop essentials - allows shoppers to discover unique pieces that can complement higher-end custom decor and create a polished, expensive-looking home without breaking the bank.