Building On A Shoestring

There’s no denying that renovation expenses can be costly whether you’re starting from scratch or just refining the ‘ol abode. So, we asked six industry leaders to share their insights on how to spruce up aspects of your home without busting your budget.

- Ara Luna - Reston

Furniture

What are the essential furniture pieces to buy when on a tight budget? How about those to save for later?

Purchase basic furniture like sofas, dining tables, chairs, beds, and storage drawers first because they will be the most utilised pieces in any home. Part of Commune’s offerings is the Crimson collection, which is designed with both style and affordability in mind. For those with more moolah to shell out, I recommend getting add-on furnishings that marry both functionality and style. Coffee tables, end tables, shelves, and mirrors, for example, are the type of items that add touch and texture to any space.

Which pieces do you think wear well and hold their value?

Furniture pieces made from genuine leather and solid wood are the best to get as they tend to age well with proper care and maintenance. Full-grain leather, which we use at Commune, is the most durable among other types of leathers that’s why they’re commonly used in upholstery and even garments. Solid wood, such as North American dark walnut and North American white oak, is sturdier and has a more appealing grain pattern compared with other timbers. Our Volta and Dualtone collections are made from these wood variations, and they’re notorious for being elegant and long-lasting— perfect investments when outfitting your first home.

In your opinion, what are the top three things that homeowners need to consider when buying furniture?