Interior designers have revealed their latest retail purchases, proving that professional decorators also turn to accessible stores for stylish home pieces. From statement lamps to handcrafted ceramics, these design experts share their recent finds that can elevate any living space without breaking the bank.
Emma Ainscough recently invested in a Camille Table Lamp from Soho Home, priced at $495. She praised the lamp's impressive scale and its ability to create significant impact while maintaining a fresh, neutral color palette. "It's a really useful tool to inject into a space, adding atmosphere and drama in a subtle, understated way," Ainscough explained. She positioned the lamp on a sideboard in a large dining room with wallpapered walls, where its strong silhouette stands out and grounds the entire space.
Charlotte Smiley turned to John Lewis for her daughter's bedroom, purchasing a pair of Anika Ikat Cushions at $70 each. As a longtime fan of John Lewis cushions, Smiley was immediately drawn to these pieces. "The colors work perfectly with the rest of the room and they really help bring the whole scheme together," she noted. The unusual shape makes a strong statement and creates a more expensive appearance than the actual price point. She has already spotted a square version that she's added to her future purchase list.
Kate Cox made several recent retail purchases, including Small Herb Pots and Saucers from H&M Home at $9.99 each. She appreciated the well-priced deep brown plant pots, describing the color as "a nice, earthy brown" that looks great when grouped on a windowsill with herbs. Cox also sourced artisan ceramics from Toast, specifically a Gilliflower Pottery Zig Zag Mug priced at $36. These stoneware pieces are hand-thrown in Cornwall by Jana Gilfillian, with greens, blues, and grays that reflect the Cornish landscape. As an avid tea drinker, Cox values beautiful handmade pieces with character.
Holly Vaughan made two significant purchases for clients this month, both of which impressed her greatly. The first was a Rattan Large Round Wall Mirror from Marks and Spencer for $99, a store she doesn't typically visit for home goods. "I adore rattan in small doses to add warmth and character, and the proportions of this mirror are brilliant," Vaughan explained. The frame features a chunky, curved design resembling a doughnut, positioned above a statement blue stained sideboard with a glossy lamp from Folie Chambre.
Vaughan's second purchase was an Ameno Enamel Table Lamp from Domestic Science, priced at $105. This piece was selected for a quirky entrance space in a stunning period property currently under renovation in Caversham. "If I saw this lamp and didn't know where it was from, I would definitely assume the price tag was a lot higher," she admitted. The lamp features a structured form with a modern glossy finish, softened by the curved line of the shade, in a versatile color that works as a pop against different backdrop tones.
Josh Hale, being honest about his recent shopping habits, admitted to making few purchases lately but did buy an Alessi 'Anna G' Corkscrew from John Lewis for $85 as a friend's housewarming gift. He chose this particular item because it's "silly, classic in design and makes a very good housewarming gift—far better than a boring waiter's friend." Hale expressed his appreciation for many Alessi products, particularly mentioning their rowing boat butter dish alongside this corkscrew.
These professional recommendations demonstrate that high-quality, stylish home accessories are available at various price points from popular retailers. The designers' choices range from functional items like plant pots and mugs to statement pieces like mirrors and lamps, proving that thoughtful selection can create sophisticated looks regardless of budget constraints.
