I'm an interior designer. I'm not wasting my money on these 7 things this year.

• I've been an interior designer for years, and there are some things I won't be buying this year.
• I won't buy desk chairs that are more stylish than functional or high-maintenance plants.
• I'm skipping the fast furniture, mass-produced rugs, and kitchen gadgets with one purpose.

As an interior designer, I'm always looking for items that combine value and style.

This year, my aim is to prioritize enduring design elements that withstand the test of time, focusing on wise investments rather than chasing fleeting fads.

Here are things I won't be wasting money on in 2024.

Overpriced brand-name decor

High prices and luxury names don't always equal quality, so I'm avoiding overspending on big-name decor just because of the label.

For me, good design is all about finding hidden gems that blend style and substance, regardless of the brand. I'm keeping my mind open to budget-friendly pieces and a discerning eye on pricey ones.

Non-ergonomic office chairs

If you partake in remote work, having a comfortable home office is incredibly important.

And although I also want a beautiful space, I'm done splurging on office chairs merely for their aesthetics — yes, I'm talking about you, trendy velvet desk chair!

A good desk chair should be ergonomic and designed to be sat in for long periods.

High-maintenance plants

This year, I'm avoiding high-maintenance plants that demand constant attention.

Instead, I'm embracing low-maintenance greenery, so I can infuse life into spaces without the stress of rigorous care routines.

Plastic plants can look cheap, so I've found dried flowers and branches to be reliable alternatives. They're perfect for those of us who can't keep plants thriving.

Cheap, mass-produced rugs

Rather than succumbing to the allure of inexpensive, mass-produced rugs, I'll invest in durable, quality ones that elevate the aesthetic of my space and endure daily wear and tear.

This way, I can avoid having to replace them frequently.

Excessive throw pillows

I adore throw pillows, but excess is out. This year, having more than three throw pillows on a bed is a no-go

I'll be investing in quality over quantity, selecting pillows that complement a space without overcrowding sofas and beds.

Fast furniture

Throughout 2024, sustainability will be a top priority for me, guiding my choices toward furniture that lasts and aligns with a more eco-conscious approach.

Although a $300 sofa might seem appealing due to its affordability, mass-produced fast furniture can degrade quickly and further contirbute to throwaway culture.

By opting to pay more for pieces made to last, I'm prioritizing quality and also actively reducing waste.

Unnecessarily specialized kitchen gadgets

Sorry, but I won't be adding any more single-purpose gadgets to my kitchen arsenal.

As tempting as that avocado slicer or hot-dog toaster may be, I'll rely on multifunctional tools to keep my kitchen clutter-free.