Whether you have the money or not, most people can’t or don’t want to spend money unnecessarily. High-low decorating pairs expensive pieces with affordable items.

Find your inspiration

Look through magazines, the Internet via Pinterest and Houzz. Find a high-end designer inspiration room that you connect with. Try to create the look for less with budget-wise alternatives.

Splurge on the timeless, quality construction pieces that never go out of style. Antiques are rich in history and a good investment if still in good condition. They also add sentimental value if a family heirloom. Splurge on investment pieces and items you use regularly, or tend to hold on to, like original artwork.

Particle board furniture and pieces with a veneer will not stand the test of time but do have their place on getting the look for less. Truth be told, my biggest splurge in my home is my mattress, and it rests on an inexpensive IKEA platform bed.

Where to shop for best buys

Once you have the inspiration, go to consignment shops, shop online, estate sales, auctions, discount stores, garage and virtual yard sales. Watch for sales and clearance items. As a professional stager, I know the stores to hit depending on what I am looking for to stage a home and look for reasonably priced items to create a lifestyle. Pieces may look high-end but are not.

Here are my local hot spots, in no particular order:

• Target: Trendy pieces including occasional furniture, lamps and the popular Nate Berkus line.

  

• Pier One: Parson-style dining chairs, counter and bar stools. Besides looking good, they are well made. I know this because I have them in my own kitchen.
• The Trifecta: Home Goods, TJ Maxx and Marshalls in Middletown. These three stores are in close proximity to each other. If I need lamps, I hit these three stores and can usually walk away with a pair. Also good for artwork and — who am I kidding? — anything!
• Kohl’s: Bedding sets and kitchen items.
• The Habitat for Humanity Restore in Newburgh for “you just never know what you may find” including lighting. Plus, you are supporting future Habitat builds by shopping there.
• Retro Modern Antiques in Warwick and Newburgh Vintage Emporium in Newburgh offer something for everyone. Follow them on Facebook for regular postings.
• Wallkill River School in Montgomery: They have art shows, classes and fundraising live auctions. You will walk away with beautiful artwork and support local artists. The artwork I have acquired over the years hang in my own home. Their Handmade for the Holidays event is noon-6 p.m. Nov. 28. I buy holiday gifts and lots of “me” gifts.

Mixing your high-end items with affordable pieces will keep your home looking fresh. Those pieces are less costly to replace when you get bored or just want a new look. There is still plenty of time to refresh your home for the holidays.