What to Buy First: A Beginner’s Guide to Home Decor Items

Decorating your home for the first time can feel a little like standing in front of a massive buffet—everything looks good, but where do you even start? Should you splurge on that statement lamp, pick up a bunch of cozy cushions, or invest in wall art that speaks to your soul?

Whether you’re moving into your first apartment or just starting to take home decor seriously, the key is to prioritize smartly. At FIG Living, we believe your space should reflect you with warmth, personality, and pieces that make you feel at home. So, let’s walk through exactly what to buy first, what can wait, and how to create a well-balanced, cozy, and stylish space without feeling overwhelmed.

 

1. Define Your Style and Needs

Before you hit the shops, take a moment to understand your vibe. Are you drawn to Scandinavian simplicity, boho coziness, or modern minimalism?

Pro Tip: Create a Pinterest board or a mood board with magazine clippings. This visual guide becomes your North Star when choosing home decor products.

 

2. Start with the Basics: Furniture Essentials

Think of furniture as the skeleton of your home—it sets the structure. Prioritize:

• Sofa or seating: Comfort meets function.
  

• Bed and mattress: Invest here—you’ll thank yourself later.
  

• Dining table and chairs: If space allows.
  

Don't rush into buying everything at once. Start with what you need immediately and build up gradually.

 

3. Lighting Decoration: Let Your Space Shine

Lighting is the secret ingredient that can make or break a room. It's not just about visibility—it's about mood, warmth, and personality.

At FIG Living, our collection of modern lighting decoration is curated to transform every corner into a cozy nook. Start with:

• Overhead fixtures: Functional yet stylish.
  

• Table and floor lamps: Adds warmth and character.
  
  

Lighting is like the jewelry of a room—it brings everything together.

 

4. Add Layers with Decorative Lights

   

Want to instantly elevate your space? Decorative lights like pendant lamps, fairy lights, or sculptural LED designs do the trick.

They’re great for:

• Highlighting corners
  

• Creating cozy reading spots
  

• Adding a designer touch to basic furniture
  
  

Think of decorative lights as the eyeliner of your home—it defines and enhances.

 

5. Soften Your Space with Textiles

Blankets, curtains, throw pillows, and cushions make a space feel inviting. They also allow you to play with color and texture without commitment.

Start with:

• Neutral base tones for big pieces
  

• Pops of color for accents
  
  

Don’t forget window treatments—they control light and offer privacy while pulling your room together.

 

6. Choose Wall Art That Tells Your Story

Walls are your biggest blank canvas. Use them to reflect your personality.

• Framed prints or posters
  

• Paintings or handmade art
  

• Wall hangings or tapestries
  
  

Start with 1-2 key pieces and add more over time. Let your walls evolve with you.

 

 

7. Introduce Calming Elements: Fragrance Candles

Nothing creates an atmosphere quite like fragrance candles. They’re the mood-setters, stress-relievers, and style boosters all in one.

Whether you’re hosting guests or winding down with a book, choose scents that speak to your senses—floral, woody, citrusy, or musky.

Bonus: FIG Living’s candle collection doubles as décor with their elegant containers.

 

8. Reed Diffusers for Long-Lasting Freshness

If you want a steady scent that lingers without maintenance, reed diffusers are your best bet.

Perfect for:

• Entryways and hallways
  

• Bathrooms and bedrooms
  

• Even your home office!
  
  

They look chic and require zero flames. A simple way to bring hotel-like luxury to everyday living.

 

9. Style with Flower Vases and Greenery

Fresh or faux, greenery adds a breath of life. Pair it with artistic flower vases to create sculptural moments.

• Tall vases for dining tables or corners
  

• Bud vases for side tables or shelves
  

• Ceramic or glass depending on your theme
  
  

It’s like accessorizing with nature—effortless charm!

 

10. Rugs: Ground Your Space

A rug does more than keep your feet warm—it ties a room together. It defines zones, adds texture, and even absorbs sound.

Start with:

• Living room rug under the coffee table
  

• Bedroom rug near the bed
  

• Runner rug for hallways
  
  

Go bold or stay neutral depending on your style roadmap.

 

11. Mirrors: More Than Just Reflections

Mirrors make spaces appear larger and brighter. They bounce light around, enhance aesthetics, and are extremely practical.

• Full-length mirrors for dressing areas
  

• Round or vintage mirrors for entryways
  

• Mirrored trays or decor for sideboards
  
  

Place them opposite windows for maximum impact.

 

12. Organize with Stylish Storage

Think baskets, open shelves, woven bins, and chic cabinets. Functional can also be fashionable.

• Storage ottomans
  

• Floating shelves
  

• Wicker baskets
  
  

Organizing clutter beautifully is an art. Get creative with it.

 

13. Personal Touches: Books, Mementos, and More

This is where your home becomes your home. Decorate with:

• Travel souvenirs
  

• Photo frames
  

• Your favorite books
  
  

It’s okay if it’s not Pinterest-perfect. What matters is that it’s you.

 

14. Invest in Quality Over Quantity

You don’t need to buy everything in one go. Focus on quality materials, thoughtful design, and timeless appeal.

At FIG Living, we curate products that age beautifully and stay relevant no matter how trends shift.

 

15. Don’t Forget the Outdoors

Got a balcony or patio? That space deserves love too!

• Outdoor string lights
  

• Planters and small seating
  

• Lanterns or weather-safe diffusers
  
  

Treat it like a mini extension of your living room.

 

Conclusion

Starting your home decor journey is exciting—and yes, a bit intimidating—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Begin with the basics and slowly build your collection with items that not only serve a purpose but also speak to your soul. Let each piece reflect your story, your style, and the kind of comfort you want to come home to.

At FIG Living, we’re here to help you curate not just products, but an experience—one light, one fragrance, one cushion at a time.

 

FAQs

1. What are the most essential home decor items to buy first?
Start with furniture, lighting, and basic textiles like rugs and curtains. These set the foundation of your space.

2. Why is lighting decoration important in home decor?
Lighting affects the mood and usability of a room. It also highlights décor and gives your space warmth and dimension.

3. What’s the difference between fragrance candles and reed diffusers?
Candles offer immediate scent and ambiance with a flame. Reed diffusers offer a long-lasting scent without maintenance or heat.

4. How can flower vases be used in home decor?
They can be decorative centerpieces or complement greenery to add freshness and visual interest.

5. Is it better to buy home decor all at once or gradually?
Gradually! This allows you to make thoughtful choices, avoid clutter, and evolve your style naturally.