What do interior designers buy at Target? Designers swear by these affordable yet stylish pieces

We love Target for its ability to balance quality and value. And it seems designers do too, as they've made a list of their favorite pieces they couldn't live without

target shelving unit, lamp and basket
(Image credit: Target)

The fundamental aim of almost all interior designers is to make a home feel both lasting and liveable. To accomplish this designers often incorporate bespoke pieces such as high-quality furniture, decor, and furnishings to make a home feel functional and luxurious.

Although luxury is a big part of design, you'll be pleased to hear that interior design trends can be achieved with smaller budgets too. In fact, we were surprised to learn that many designers shop at high-street stores when looking for lasting home pieces.

We asked a handful of design experts where they turn to for affordable yet reliable home decor and so many of them came back with one place– Target. From bathmats to shelving, the beloved retail outlet has been answering the needs of designers for years.

We've put together a list of their top choices which couldn't be more perfect for filling a space with thoughtful touches.

1. Lighting

Rattan floor lamp in neutral living room with boucle armchair and fireplace

(Image credit: Target)

Lighting is a crucial part of successful home design. It comes in all shapes and sizes, making it one of the best and easiest ways to transform a once-dreary space into a warm and cozy haven.

Leigh Jendrusina from SALTHOUSE collective has a list of things she heads to Target in search of and lighting is one of them. 'I love Target for a few of their home pieces that work well and look good for a more affordable price.' she says. 'Target has some great lighting and so many of them work to give you that layered modern look that I love.'

2. Shelving accessories

Handled vase on coffee table with wooden bowl

(Image credit: Target)

'When styling shelves and surfaces before a shoot, Target is a great place to look for last-minute accents and accessories. Their decorative items by Threshold designed with w/Studio McGee get better and better with each release, offering beautiful pieces that are universal to any living space.' says Amber Guyton of Blessed Little Bungalow.

Mimi Meacham, Founder & Principal Designer, Marian Louise Design agrees Target is perfect for those finishing touches and goes for their picture frames. She says, 'Target offers a great selection of affordable picture frames that are both stylish and durable. Adding a punch of style to your artwork or photographs draws the eye and enhances your space with a hint of design.'

3. Storage

Rattan basket beside wooden shelves

(Image credit: Target)

No home is complete without some life-saving storage ideas. Whether that be a basket to fill with kids' toys or a set of functional shelves to house books or trinkets, there are many stylish ways to store miscellaneous items.

Leigh Jendrusina's modern organic style pairs well with Target's home choices. She's a fan of storage and says, 'Target has great baskets! I use them all the time to hold blankets, toys, or even plants in my client’s homes.'

Interior designer Nina Lichtenstein also knows how important storage is. 'Shelving brings style and practicality to your home'. Referring to her favorite Target piece (below) she says, 'Featuring adjustable shelves with pre-drilled holes, you can create a personalized storage solution that fits your needs, whether showcasing plants, books, or decor.'

4. Throw pillows

throw pillows in muted green and cream and patterned bolster on a day bench

(Image credit: Target)

Target's selection of throw pillows ensures that there's something for every taste and style. There's pretty much every size, color, and pattern you can think of, making it the go-to choice for designers looking to elevate their sofa or bed game.

Despite the variations of Nina's choices, she says these pieces, 'Add a modern touch to your home with these pillows. They create visual interest while maintaining a subtle elegance that complements any decor.'

Pillows are one of the easiest ways to introduce pattern and color into a space that needs it. Simply scatter along a sofa or position a family at the center of a bed to create an inviting and cozy display.

5. Bedding

Neutral bedding with woven throw in cream and bamboo plant

(Image credit: Target)

Quite a few designers had only good things to say about Target's bedding. With high-quality compositions at such affordable price points, what else is there to say?

Mimi loves buying her home basics from Target. 'There's a wide selection of bed sheet sets in a variety of colors and thread counts.' When designing, Mimi says she opts for a 'crisp, fresh white linen set for my beds. Depending on who's using the bed, you can choose from 100% cotton, 100% linen, or a variety of blends to suit different preferences.'

'The bedding!' says Amber Guyton. 'The Casaluna brand is truly Target's best-kept secret. Amazing quality in linen, sateen, percale, silk, and bamboo that's responsibly made, layers together well, and rivals any other bedding as it's at a far lower price point.'


Target's many collections are filled with one-of-a-kind, easy-to-integrate pieces that make creating your ideal home an easy and enjoyable task. Tried and tested by interior designers, they've sworn by these home staples due to their affordability and timelessness.

Eleanor Richardson
Interior Design News Editor

I am the Interior Design News Editor at Homes and Gardens, covering mainly US-based designers and trending news stories. My love for interiors began when I interned in an interior design studio, working on commercial and private spaces. My passion grew when working in production, where I sourced beautiful locations for photoshoots and campaigns. Outside work, I enjoy collecting antique and Mid-century furniture and quirky homewares for my new flat.

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