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Interiors

What is Pre-Luxury Interior Design?

What is pre-luxury interior design? To answer that question, let’s first talk about what it isn’t. Pre-luxury design isn’t about creating homes that look or feel overly precious. Instead, it’s about finding that perfect balance of beautiful style, long-lasting quality, and livable functionality.

Why am I telling you this? Because most people assume that you should only hire an interior designer if you’re looking for a “luxury” home. But to be quite honest with you, the pre-luxury market is where a lot of our clients and our team find the most joy and success!

So, what are the features of pre-luxury interior design, and how do you know if it’s right for you? Let’s talk about it…

interior designer's dining room, white walls with mouldings, vintage artwork, white drapery and rustic dining table

1. We Prioritize Quality Over Brand Names

We all value well-made, long-lasting products and materials, but that doesn’t always mean we should spend purely for the sake of spending. Believe it or not, there are many competitive and high-quality product lines that exist beyond the designer brand names. And we make it our business to know them.

For example, you might be surprised when we present a non-designer upholstery fabric option that is just as gorgeous and high-quality as the $500-per-yard designer option. Because we have such a wide range of to-the-trade resources, we’re able to make this strategic choice and allow your dollar to go farther. This brings us to my second point…

2. We Make Smart Long-Term Investments

Both luxury design and pre-luxury design involve considerable investment. The difference is that the investment in luxury design is slightly more about the flash, while pre-luxury design cares more about investing in the future. In other words, we may spend less on non-designer items, but we aren’t afraid to invest where it really counts. 

“Where it counts” will depend on where you spend the most time. For example, we usually suggest a custom-made family room sofa (for unparalleled style, longevity, and comfort), a top-of-the-line mattress (for your best sleep), or a kitchen laden with useful amenities (if you love to cook or entertain). These are high-traffic areas where you’ll reap the benefits of your investment every day for years and years.

3. We Use Small Touches to Create Big Impact

If you’re thinking that pre-luxury design sounds far too practical to be stylish, that couldn’t be farther from the truth! I believe that your home should always have those one-of-a-kind, special items — and yes, sometimes that does mean splurging on a brand-name item if it will elevate the design. We just don’t need every item to be a one-of-a-kind or designer splurge.

Think about it like this: you’ve just purchased a gorgeous YSL statement handbag. You absolutely love it, but you’re not the kind of person to dress in head-to-toe haute couture. You pair it with your favourite jeans and a comfy Gap tee shirt, and you’re good to go. Stunning. Effortless. Comfortable. That has “pre-luxury” written all over it – That’s what we do for your home!

Ready to Work with Interior Design Experts?

In the end, creating a home that envelopes beauty, style, and quality can be a balancing act. The best way to achieve the look of your dreams? Trust the experts. 

Whether you need support designing your whole home or a single room, we’re here for you. Reach out to us, and together we’ll create a home that delights and supports you for years to come.

Talk soon!

Staci

P.S. Not sure if you’re quite ready? Grab our helpful guide – 5 Things to Ask Yourself Before Hiring an Interior Designer!

Behind the blog

Welcome to the SED Edit — my corner of the internet where I share interior design tips, project updates, favourite finds, and the small everyday things that make life feel a little more beautiful.

My hope is that each post gives you clarity, inspiration, and the confidence to create a home you truly love.

If you enjoy this content and want notes from me delivered to your inbox, tap below to join my monthly newsletter. I'd love to have you.

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