Creating stunning interiors doesn’t always require a hefty budget. Many interior designers turn to dollar stores to find treasures that elevate their spaces without breaking the bank. These affordable staples can instantly enhance any room, proving that style isn’t about the price tag but about creative usage. In this article, we’ll explore 18 dollar store finds that even professionals incorporate into their homes and client projects, along with tips for making these purchases look high-end.
Simple glass vases from the dollar store can look remarkably high-end when styled with fresh blooms or filled with pebbles. Designers use them for minimalistic centerpieces or mantel accents. Their versatility means they suit every decor style—from modern to traditional. For creative uses and design tips, see Good Housekeeping’s ideas for affordable DIY vases: https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/craft-ideas/g1202/diy-vases/
Modern faux plants have come a long way, with designers often mixing dollar store stems into larger arrangements for extra fullness. These budget-friendly picks add a refreshing touch to shelves or bathrooms without worrying about sunlight or watering. For tips on incorporating faux greenery into your home, see Apartment Therapy’s feature on using fake plants for interior style: https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/fake-plants-home-decor-36673408
Picture frames from dollar stores are favorites for gallery walls and personalized photo displays. Designers sometimes paint or distress the frames for custom looks or use them as backing for creative wall art. They’re a savvy solution for updating artwork on a budget. For tips on creating stylish gallery walls with inexpensive materials, see The Spruce’s guide: https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-make-a-gallery-wall-2213431
Woven or plastic storage baskets from dollar stores are staples for organizing spaces like closets and pantries. Many designers choose baskets in neutral colors or textures to create cohesion. When grouped, they offer a designer-organized look without the hefty price. For inspiration on using affordable storage baskets throughout the home, see Real Simple’s guide: https://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/organizing/storage/basket-storage-ideas
Candle holders in a range of styles—glass, metal, or ceramic—are a designer go-to for inexpensive ambiance. Grouped together, they can be transformed into elegant table decor or mantelpieces. With a quick coat of spray paint, even the simplest holder looks chic. For creative candle holder updates, see Martha Stewart’s ideas: https://www.marthastewart.com/1535409/diy-candle-holder-ideas
Small ceramic plates and bowls from the dollar store are often repurposed by designers as trinket dishes, plant saucers, or jewelry catchalls. Their simple lines suit diverse interiors, and grouping them makes for a curated vignette. For inspiration on using little dishes throughout the home, see HGTV’s guide: https://www.hgtv.com/lifestyle/clean-and-organize/15-ways-to-use-little-dishes
Dollar store stones and pebbles are used for vase fillers, plant pot drainage, and zen garden accents. Designers cite their natural textures as a key tool for creating an organic feel in both indoor and outdoor spaces. For inspiration on incorporating natural elements into your decor, see Better Homes & Gardens’ guide: https://www.bhg.com/decorating/seasonal/spring/natural-elements-home-decor/
Removable wall decals from dollar stores allow for quick decor updates without major commitment. Interior designers use them in children’s rooms, rentals, or as part of accent walls. With creative placement, decals mimic expensive wallpaper or stenciling. For tips on stylish application, consult House Beautiful’s article on wall decals: https://www.housebeautiful.com/room-decorating/best-products/g2403/wall-decals/
Plastic or acrylic drawer organizers from dollar stores create order in kitchens, bathrooms, and office spaces. Designers appreciate the flexibility to mix and match sizes for custom storage. By decluttering drawers, these inserts lend a polished, intentional look. For organization inspiration, see The Washington Post’s story on decluttering with drawer organizers: https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/home/decluttering-tips/
Dollar store mirrors are regularly used in DIY wall installations or as vanity accents. Designers have been known to group multiple mirrors for unique statement pieces or paint frames for a custom look. Mirrors instantly brighten spaces by bouncing light around. For creative uses of small and affordable mirrors, see Elle Decor’s article: https://www.elledecor.com/design-decorate/room-ideas/how-to/g2633/decorating-with-mirrors/
Affordable plastic planters can be transformed into designer-worthy pieces with simple enhancements like a fresh coat of paint, twine, or rope wrapping. Professionals often use these upgraded planters for indoor or patio displays, elevating their appearance to mimic ceramic or terra cotta. Their lightweight nature also facilitates easy rearranging. For more ideas on decorating plain planters, see DIY Network’s guide: (familyhandyman.com)
Mason jars from dollar stores are a beloved staple—used as vases, utensil holders, pendant lights, or bathroom storage. Designers maximize their versatility for everything from rustic wedding centerpieces to modern kitchen organization. With the right styling, they blend seamlessly into any decor. For a comprehensive list of creative uses for mason jars, see The Kitchn’s article: https://www.thekitchn.com/creative-uses-for-mason-jars-264026
Affordable linen or cotton tea towels make stylish hand towels, napkins, or even DIY pillow covers. Designers sometimes dye or stencil them for a custom look, adding extra personality to kitchens or tablescapes. For simple upcycling projects using tea towels, head to Country Living: https://www.countryliving.com/diy-crafts/g32891661/tea-towel-crafts/
Clip-on lamps from dollar stores are often used to illuminate bookshelves, closets, or wall-mounted displays. Designers appreciate their compact design and ease of repositioning, often upgrading them with fancier shades or paint. These affordable lights create layered lighting effects on a shoestring. For more information on portable lights, see The New York Times’ article: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-desk-lamps/
Removable hooks and strips are essential for professionals managing rentals or dorm rooms. Designers use them to hang art, organize entryways, or string up lights without wall damage. They make seasonal swaps and quick updates easy and inexpensive. For advice on using removable hooks, check out CNET’s how-to: https://www.cnet.com/home/smart-home/how-to-use-command-strips/
Mini chalkboards from the dollar store can be repurposed as pantry labels, table place cards, or family message boards. Designers love them for adding rustic or playful touches to any space, and they’re ideal for ever-changing labeling needs. For creative label ideas, visit Good Housekeeping: https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/organization/g3851/pantry-organization-labels/
Plastic or metal trays are used by designers as catchalls on entry tables, desk organizers, or display platforms for candles and decor. Spray-painted or lined with contact paper, these dollar store finds add a sense of order and intentionality to any room. For creative uses of decorative trays, see Taste of Home’s article: https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/ways-to-use-serving-trays/
Peel-and-stick tiles from dollar stores are popular for renters or quick kitchen and bathroom updates. Designers use them for stylish backsplashes, faux tile floors, or lining drawers and shelves. Because they’re removable, mistakes are easy to fix and trends easy to update. Better Homes & Gardens explores affordable peel-and-stick tile transformations: https://www.bhg.com/kitchen/remodeling/makeovers/peel-and-stick-tile-ideas/
By blending dollar store essentials with a dash of creativity, it’s possible to design spaces that are both beautiful and budget-friendly. Interior designers prove that thoughtful details make a room special, no matter where the decor begins. Try incorporating a few of these low-cost finds to refresh your own home—and enjoy a sense of style that doesn’t come with a luxury price tag.
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