But I'm an interior designer who's spent years working with all sorts of spaces and a range of budgets. I believe it's worth investing in timeless, well-crafted pieces even if you're decorating a rental.
One retailer I enjoy shopping at is CB2, a high-end treasure trove of modern furnishings and accents that never fail to impress me.
Here are nine pieces I'd buy there right now.
Use the Derrico acacia-wood coffee table to add visual interest to a living room.
The sculpted organic shape of this Derrico acacia-wood table brings fluidity and movement to a room. Each table is unique, showcasing grain patterns, knots, and textures that add warmth and character to a space.
With its natural finish and minimalist design, it serves as a versatile centerpiece, ideal for any living room (especially one going for an organic modern look).
The Enyo travertine coffee table is a timeless and dramatic statement piece.
There's something inherently timeless about natural materials and stone, so this piece won't be out of style anytime soon. Plus, travertine can be an exceptionally durable material that works well on a coffee table.
This black wall mirror has a horn frame that makes it a focal point.
I love that this piece departs from traditionally European-centric bust sculptures. It's the first bust I've encountered depicting a Black person, and its significance resonates deeply.
The sleek matte-black finish and sculpted curves evoke a sense of modern elegance and powerfully celebrate diversity.
The Faible wheat-performance-velvet sectional sofa is sleek.
I love a deep-seat sofa, but it's hard to find ones that still feel sleek. With clean lines and a buttery-soft texture, this Faible sofa strikes the ideal balance between sophistication and coziness.
The fabric is undeniably beautiful and comes in several different swatches, too.
Use the Kota round marble dining table to eat at or to decorate a foyer.
I'm obsessed with this sleek round marble dining table from CB2. Its silhouette is accentuated by a tiered effect in the marble, creating a sculptural masterpiece that combines form and function.
Although it's probably most often used as a dining table, it also works well as a stunning entry table in a grand foyer or lobby.
The Copernicus tarnished-silver wall sconce is a showstopper.
The tarnished-silver finish of the Copernicus wall sconce is highly reflective and creates a stunning play of light and shadow that adds depth and dimension to a space.
Because it uses tapered candles, it's perfect for illuminating walls without hardwiring or unsightly cords. Really, it's a sophisticated solution to ambient lighting.
I would recommend flanking a piece of art with these sconces in a dining room.
You can use light-brown velvet Bettie throw pillows in just about any space.
CB2's Bettie throw pillow in light-brown velvet is perfectly neutral, meaning it effortlessly complements any decor scheme.
The plush velvet makes the pillow luxurious, and the subtle fringe detail gives it extra visual interest as a stylish accent piece.
A smoked wall mirror is a unique way to add personality to your home.
Even with its smoky finish, this 48-inch ultra-modern mirror can brighten dark corners by reflecting light from different angles.
Plus, its curved surface adds a playful distortion to reflections, making it an instant conversation starter.