Interior Designer: Things to Never Buy at HomeGoods, What to Get Instead

As an interior designer and television art director who deals with tight deadlines, HomeGoods has always been my go-to store for finding pieces that can quickly pull a room together.

When shopping at HomeGoods, it's important to ensure that your design choices reflect your unique personality and are curated with high-end-looking, well-made pieces. It's also crucial to exercise caution to avoid ending up with a cart full of lackluster items.

Here are five things I shop for at HomeGoods and five I typically avoid.

Mirrors create the illusion of a larger room and also add depth and light to the area. Whether you prefer sleek and modern designs or ornate and vintage-inspired frames, HomeGoods often has an array of options to suit various design styles.

From abstract paintings to photographic prints, HomeGoods' art section often boasts an assortment of eye-catching pieces that can become the focal point of any room.

Such artwork can add personality, color, and a sense of artistic flair to your space. If I can't find a piece of art that speaks to me, I will often buy a large canvas from HomeGoods and paint something simple and abstract on top of it to suit my needs.

Whether you're looking for a statement piece to complement your existing furniture or want to add a pop of color or texture to a room, HomeGoods often offers a wide variety of accent chairs in different styles, fabrics, and finishes.

With a discerning eye and patience, you can discover the perfect chair that's comfortable and stylish.

I can always count on HomeGoods to have a stylish 8-foot-by-10-foot rug in stock and ready to go. Style-wise, the chain often has a diverse assortment to suit various design preferences.

Rugs anchor a room, define different areas, and add warmth and texture to your space. With a little exploration, you can find rugs that align with your style and bring your entire design concept together.

Coffee-table books serve as decor accents and also offer a delightful reading experience for you and your guests.

Whether you're interested in art, fashion, photography, or travel, HomeGoods often stocks an assortment of beautifully curated books that can spark conversation and add a touch of sophistication to your living space.

HomeGoods' decorative objects section often showcases an abundance of faux-gilded bookends and painted shiny yellow-gold vases.

It seems as if King Midas himself infiltrated the store and declared, "Everything must be golden!" However, I think an overload of metallic monotony lacks regal appeal.

Instead, seek out items that offer a natural and authentic brass look and feel, and use them sparingly. It's all about balance.

The chain tends to have a vast inventory of pillows which makes it challenging to guarantee every item will meet my high-quality standards.

You may stumble upon hidden gems in terms of design and craftsmanship, but I think there's also a high likelihood you may encounter poorly made and unattractive pillows.

It's essential to prioritize quality and aesthetics to elevate your space, so really give your pillows a good look before taking them home.

Surprisingly, I've found the office-decor aisle at HomeGoods rarely items that align with sophisticated design.

It tends to be a treacherous land of oversized paper clips shaped like llamas and desk organizers resembling mini Ferris wheels. Your workspace deserves a chic and elegant approach, not a circus sideshow.

Keep your desk mostly clutter-free and save the quirkiness for a well-deserved coffee break.

As with many stores that sell decor, HomeGoods stores often feature an array of artificial flowers and plants that would leave Mother Nature shedding a tear.

But remember, no amount of plastic can replicate the beauty and vitality of real flowers.

Spare your living space from the tyranny of tacky fake flowers and seek out the real deal for an authentic touch of natural beauty. Or, opt for dried florals and branches for a more affordable and low-maintenance option.

I'd steer clear of the outdoor section at HomeGoods, which is often filled with an abundance of flamingos and garden gnomes. I'd skip these kitschy items and instead look for pots that resemble natural stone or concrete to achieve an organic and upscale look.

Create an outdoor oasis that reflects your style with thoughtfully chosen furnishings, elevating your outdoor space to new heights.