Emily Henderson reveals the two items you shouldn't overspend on when designing a room

Any renovation or interior design project demands that we constantly weigh up where we're going to spend and where we'll need to save. We have all heard those commonly held budgeting beliefs on where you should invest and where you can cut corners.

However, interior designer Emily Henderson goes against the grain. We recently sat down with the interior design professional as part of her work with PRESS Premium Alcohol Seltzer (opens in new tab) – and during our conversation, she revealed what you should – and shouldn't – be spending your money on when it comes to interior design.

'You should splurge on the thing – the conversation piece – that takes your house to another level,' says Emily. 'When you walk in, you want them to be dazzled by a space that truly represent your style – and who you are. 

'Because, these days, there are some exceptional sofas and beautiful rugs that are also incredibly affordable,' she says. According to Emily, gorgeous living room sofa ideas needn't cost a fortune in this day and age.

'It used to be, "splurge on the sofa because you're going to sit on it for nine hours a day." It's not that you should invest a cheap sofa by any means, but that's not where I would splurge,' she continues.

The Styled: Secrets for Arranging Rooms (opens in new tab) author argues that there are so many decent rugs and sofas that are affordable. 'So, what will make your house really stand out and give it that joie de vivre that is different from everybody else, is a statement piece of art, or a vintage rug that can't duplicated,' she says.

Emily says it's all about pieces no one else can copy – items that add interest, that tell a story. Special pieces that guests coming into your home may not have seen before.

'That is where I will always allocate my budget,' she tells us.

Even when you're not shopping for a vintage piece, rugs are always an investment, but Emily believes you can find cost-effective alternatives that will still look expensive – and in keeping with the aesthetic of your home. 

When it comes to how to choose a rug, it's crucial to decide on your rug early on in the design process, because they're a fundamental element that helps set the tone for the room.

As for sofas, companies like Snug (opens in new tab) make sumptuous velvet sofas very affordable options. We'll be hunting for vintage treasures that help to tell our story on our next trip to an antique store or flea market.