Interior designers on the pieces they would buy again and again

We like to think we’re pretty savvy shoppers here H&Gbut there is no one better at this job than interior designers whose mission is to curate products and pieces to create the most beautiful homes.

So we thought it was high time to talk to some of our favorite designers to dig into the pieces they’ve purchased for their own homes or design projects they’d buy again and again.

Whether it’s a well-crafted sofa, a statement lamp or a timeless rug, seasoned designers know what’s going on—what’s worth investing in and what adds serious style to a room. From furniture to fixtures, here are their recommendations for items that are really worth their salt.

large neutral kitchen with wooden cabinets and a vintage rug

When shopping for your home, it can be important to know which pieces to prioritize within your budget or time. This can be the key to creating a stylish home with longevity. So a few insights from interior designers should be invaluable to anyone looking to take their interior design to the next level. Here are the pieces seven top designers swear by, and why they truly believe they’re worth investing in again and again.

1. Versatile dining room chairs

neutral kitchen corner with a floral sofa and a wooden table with wavy chairs

For House of Bijenkorf co-founder and lead designer Kailee Blalock, her hero buy is a set of second-hand chairs for her dining room allowing additional flexibility in her space.

“The one piece I would buy again without hesitation is a set of fabulous dining room chairs I found at a consignment store,” Kailee explains. ‘What makes them so special is that they are on castors, which makes it easy for me to roll them into the car family room for additional seating when needed.”

‘When I first used them, I replaced the old casters with new ones that roll on a ball, which has not only protected my floors but also improved the functionality of the chairs. I love the flexibility they bring to my home, and I’ve learned that investing in versatile pieces—things that fit how you actually live in your space—is something I would do again and again.”

2. A comfortable sofa

designer Kathy Kuo sat on a green velvet couch

(Image credit: Kathy Kuo)

‘I have a sage green velvet sofa (the Madeline sofa by Kathy Kuo Home) which is not only one of the most beautiful pieces I own, but also one of the most comfortable,” says renowned interior designer Kathy Kuo, who emphasizes the importance of choosing the right sofa.

“I love how luxurious and polished it looks, but also how it’s perfect for curling up with a great book,” she explains. A sofa is one of the most used pieces in the home, so it’s essential to invest in something that you will enjoy for years to come.

‘I would invest in this piece again and again! Because your sofa is generally one of the largest and most expensive pieces you buy for yourself living roomit’s worth making sure you love the look and feel and are confident in its staying power.’

3. Natural stone

living room with dark blue sofa, mustard curtains and decorative items

(Image credit: Bethany Adams Interiors, JL Jordan Photography)

With unique grains and rich tones, stone surfaces such as marble, travertine and granite bring natural warmth to any space, making a unique statement in your home.

Designer Bethany Adams has never regretted buying a stone table. ‘I have a lot of natural stone tables in my house and I love them all and would never trade them, and here’s why. One: they look incredibly chic.”

“Two, the colors and patterns add so much interest to a room without having to layer endless pillows or curtains in different fabric choices, and three, they’re immovable and indestructible,” says Bethany. One of the best features of a natural stone table is its durability. ‘Do I need a roller coaster?’ No. “Mommy, watch me jump off the coffee table!” No! (but the table will be fine),” she explains.

4. Timeless lighting

Marie Flanigan designed conservatory with large high ceiling windows and a large central desk with multiple chairs

Credit: Marie Flanigan Interiors / Photography Julie Soefer

Beloved interior designer Marie Flanigan emphasizes the importance of lighting ideas to tie a room together and anchor a space.

“Beautiful and thoughtful lighting is truly the jewel in any room, and I believe every space deserves beautiful fixtures, from sconces to chandeliers and flush mounts,” Marie explains.

When carefully selected, lighting can make a room feel cozy, inviting and well-designed. “These elements not only provide lighting, but also serve as statement pieces that elevate the entire design,” adds Marie.

Lane 4 – Lightly dimmable geometric chandelier

5. A really good rug

Blue-colored cozy hobby room with large traditional carpet and guitars on the wall

(Image credit: DATE Interiors / Photography Kirsten Francis)

“Just as important are rugs,” continues Marie Flanigan. ‘An essential layer that defines a space, adds texture and creates depth. A well-chosen rug anchors the space, making it feel more cohesive and inviting. Together, these elements bring a sense of sophistication and warmth to your home, transforming mundane rooms into carefully curated spaces.”

Plus, a well-made, durable rug will last for years, even in high-traffic areas.

‘One of my favorite pieces in my home is a vintage Oushak rug from House of Seance I’ve experienced that in many different homes and in many different rooms,” says Molly Torres Portnof, founder of DATE Interiors. “It’s not only beautiful but also durable, which is why I always buy vintage rugs for customers.”

Louie natural espresso carpet

6. Quality bathroom fixtures

modern marble bathroom with freestanding bath and a large plant

(Image credit: LH.Designs / Photography Lauren Taylor)

Designer Linda Hayslett, founder of LH.Designs prefers to focus her attention on plumbing and hardware to improve both the aesthetics and longevity of a space. With daily use, these pieces can experience significant wear and tear, making durability and quality essential when purchasing.

‘from Kohler fixtures, such as the Puristic washbasin tapoffer a beautiful combination of precision, craftsmanship and innovative design. The clean lines and minimalist aesthetic fit effortlessly into a variety of styles, both modern and classic,” she explains. ‘I often recommend Kohler to customers because of the balance between form and performance. Once you use their products, it becomes clear why they are a standout choice for any space.”

“Plus, Kohler’s sinks have a way of transforming the whole thing bathroom vanity area with their clean lines and classic design,” she adds. ‘The craftsmanship is exceptional and the materials are made to last. They are products I return to because they add both beauty and comfort to a space.”

7. Boiling hot water tap

wooden kitchen with a marble fluted sink under the window and a quooker boiling water tap

(Image credit: deVOL Kitchens)

“Practically speaking, I couldn’t live without my Quooker boiling water tap in my kitchen,” says Jane Lanindo, creative & design head of studio at Taylor Howes.

Whether you’re making tea or filling a pot for the stove, a boiling water tap streamlines daily tasks and frees up countertop space, reducing clutter and improving the overall look of the kitchen. It’s a small change with a big impact on efficiency.

“I recommend them to all my customers and would never go back to a kettle again,” Taylor continues. ‘Art and accessories are, I think, the key to making my house a home – so the finishing touches are definitely the items I would buy again and again. They’re also the fastest way to update and change the look and feel of a room, so I often swap things in and out and update them depending on the season.”

If you’re considering purchases for your own home, make sure you take inspiration from these must-haves that designers return to again and again. With high-quality materials and craftsmanship, select pieces stand the test of time and evolve beautifully with you and your space. So think about it carefully, so that you will be as happy as these interior design experts for years to come.