Redefining Your Home Shopping Experience

If you’re like most busy professionals, you don’t have time to waste when it comes to creating a home that reflects your success and provides you with peace at the end of a long day. It’s why stores like Home Goods seem like the perfect option—affordable, trendy, and convenient. But, as much as people love to sing its praises, I have to be honest: Home Goods isn’t all it’s cracked up to be, especially when it comes to furnishing a high-end, modern, and truly functional space.

You might be thinking, “But I’ve found some great deals there!” And sure, for the occasional accessory or kitchen gadget, Home Goods can be useful. But when it comes to finding high-quality pieces that will stand the test of time, create a luxurious environment, and reflect the life you’ve built, it often falls short.

As a designer, I’m here to make sure you know where to invest and where to save. My ideal clients—busy professionals who value quality, functionality, and aesthetics—deserve more than throwaway furniture and mismatched decor. You’ve worked hard to get where you are, and your home should reflect that. So, let’s dive into why I’m not a fan of shopping at Home Goods and why you might want to rethink it, too.

1. The Quality of Their Furniture is Terrible

Let’s be real: when you invest in your home, you want to know that your furniture will last. It’s not just about having something to sit on or a place to put your keys; it’s about creating a space that reflects your lifestyle—one that’s intentional, durable, and beautiful.

I grew up learning the importance of quality from my mother and grandmother. Whether it was clothes, shoes, or furniture, we always prioritized craftsmanship. Why? Because quality pieces stand the test of time, both in durability and in design. Lately, though, Home Goods has been falling short in this department.

Here’s What I Mean by Poor Quality at Home Goods:

• Materials That Easily Chip or Crack: Far too often, the materials at Home Goods look good on the surface but quickly reveal their true nature. Whether it’s particle board disguised as wood or metal accents that rust after a few weeks, the materials just don’t hold up. If you’re investing in furniture, it should last longer than a season.

• Drawer Glides Are Nonexistent or Low Quality: Have you ever tried to find a dresser or nightstand with soft-close drawers at Home Goods? It’s like trying to find a needle in a haystack. The craftsmanship is often lacking, with drawers that stick, wobble, or fail to close properly. This might seem like a small detail, but over time, these frustrations add up.

• Furniture That’s Never Level: This is one of my biggest pet peeves. You bring home what you thought was a great table or chair, only to find out that it wobbles. This isn't just annoying—it’s a clear indicator of poor construction.

Throwaway Furniture Contributes to a Wasteful Culture

Our landfills are already overflowing with cheap, throwaway furniture that was designed to fail. The last thing we need is to add more to the problem. As someone committed to using high-quality materials in my designs, I believe in pieces that last. You want furniture that will grow with your family, adapt to changing styles, and still look great after years of use—not something that’s going to break or fall apart in a few months.

Is There a Place for “Throwaway” Furniture?

For me, the answer is no. In a world where sustainability and conscious living are becoming more important, we need to shift away from throwaway culture. Yes, Home Goods might seem like a bargain at first, but what happens when that chair you loved breaks? You’ll end up spending more money—and time—replacing it.

2. I Often Don’t Find What I’m Looking For

As a designer, I pride myself on creating spaces that are as functional as they are beautiful. Every piece of furniture and decor has a place and a purpose. That’s why it’s so frustrating when I walk into Home Goods with a specific item in mind and walk out empty-handed.

The Hit-Or-Miss Nature of Home Goods

The reality is, Home Goods operates on an ever-changing inventory. What you see one day might be gone the next, and there’s no guarantee that you’ll find the exact piece you need. It’s a game of chance, which might work if you’re shopping for something spontaneous or fun, but when you have a vision for a space, this just doesn’t cut it.

For my ideal clients, who lead busy, high-achieving lives, time is one of the most valuable resources. Wasting time running from store to store or endlessly browsing in the hopes of finding that “perfect” piece isn’t an option. You need efficiency and reliability—something Home Goods rarely offers when you’re looking for something specific.

The Frustration of Needing Multiples

One of the biggest challenges with Home Goods is that even when you do find something you like, there’s often only one available. Need two matching lamps for your bedside tables? Good luck. Searching for a set of dining chairs? You might be able to find one or two, but getting a full set is a near-impossible feat.

When I work with my clients, I focus on creating cohesive, intentional spaces where every piece works together. Walking away with half of what you need—or worse, nothing at all—just isn’t conducive to that vision. This is why I often recommend shopping online or working with brands that offer consistency in their inventory, allowing you to find exactly what you need without the hassle.

3. The Prices Don’t Reflect the Quality

Now, I know what you’re thinking—Home Goods is supposed to be affordable, right? It’s known for offering pieces at discounted prices from manufacturers or other retail establishments. But lately, I’ve found that the prices at Home Goods just don’t add up when you consider the quality (or lack thereof) you’re getting.

Prices Should Reflect Craftsmanship

Here’s the thing: prices should reflect the quality of the craftsmanship. Unfortunately, at Home Goods, that’s rarely the case. Most of the items you find there are mass-produced overseas for a fraction of the cost. While I understand that certain budget-friendly items have their place, the problem is that Home Goods is charging prices that are comparable to higher-end stores—without delivering the same level of quality.

For my clients, who value luxury and functionality, it’s frustrating to see mediocre items sold at prices that don’t match the craftsmanship. If you’re going to spend your hard-earned money, it should be on pieces that are worth the investment—pieces that will stand the test of time and bring true value to your home.

The Good: Where Home Goods Can Work

To be fair, it’s not all bad. If you’re looking for small home accessories—things like kitchen gadgets, bathroom soap dispensers, or seasonal decor—Home Goods can be a decent option. They tend to carry a variety of trendy, smaller items that can work as finishing touches in a space. But even then, I encourage my clients to shop thoughtfully and prioritize quality.

Outdoor Accessories and Planters

Another area where Home Goods can come in handy is outdoor accessories. I’ve found that their selection of plant pots, outdoor side tables, and decorative accessories can sometimes be a good fit for clients looking to add a little flair to their patios or gardens. But again, the key is to shop carefully and keep your standards high.

Elevate Your Home with Thoughtful, High-Quality Design

At the end of the day, your home is a reflection of your life, your achievements, and your aspirations. It’s where you unwind after a long day, where you entertain guests, and where you spend time with family. That’s why it’s so important to invest in pieces that are not only beautiful but also durable, functional, and well-made.

At Denine Jackson Interiors, I believe in taking a thoughtful, intentional approach to design. Whether it’s helping you select high-quality furniture or guiding you through the process of creating a cohesive, luxurious space, I’m here to ensure that every detail reflects your vision and lifestyle.

Don’t want to go through the hassle of finding quality furniture pieces for your home? I’d love to help. Whether you’re looking for a complete home transformation or need assistance selecting the perfect finishing touches, I offer personalized consultations and even 1-hour shopping trips (I promise not to take you to Home Goods). Let’s create a home you can truly be proud of.

Contact me today to schedule a consultation and start creating a space that reflects your life, your style, and your aspirations.

Final Thoughts: Rethinking Your Shopping Experience

As someone who values quality, craftsmanship, and intentional design, I know that shopping for your home can feel overwhelming—especially when faced with an endless array of options that don’t quite meet your standards. But you deserve more than throwaway furniture and one-off decor items. You deserve a home that feels cohesive, luxurious, and truly you.

By being intentional with where you shop and the pieces you choose to bring into your home, you can create a space that supports your lifestyle and stands the test of time. I hope this blog has given you a new perspective on the importance of quality and why it’s worth investing in pieces that reflect your life and values.

So the next time you’re tempted to browse the aisles of Home Goods, remember that there are better options out there—ones that prioritize craftsmanship, durability, and the long