HomeGoods is a design lover's dream. Step foot into any location (there are more than 900 in the U.S.), and you'll find just about anything you need to bring your decorating plan to life.
You can hunt for affordable furniture, lighting, kitchen and bath essentials and so much more. But considering the wide inventory, it can be overwhelming to find the best buys for your space. Shelves tend to overflow with merchandise, you have to navigate a constant flurry of shoppers, and sometimes the shopping experience can feel like a test of your patience.
That's why we reached out to interior designers for some guidance to make the most of every shopping trip. Here, design pros share the top finds to look out for at any HomeGoods.
"When shopping at HomeGoods, it’s really all about the hunt," says Katherine Moore of Murphy & Moore Design. "There’s always something fresh, unexpected and genuinely useful, especially for designers like us who are constantly sourcing both practical pieces and finishing touches."
Stylish Dishware
You can usually find everything from everyday dinner plates and cereal bowls to special pieces that can enhance a dinner party. "We like to search for beautiful platters, glassware and serving pieces that can elevate a staging moment or client install," Moore says.
Towels
Designer Marie Cloud of Indigo Pruitt says don't overlook the towel section. She has one rule for picking the right style: "I’m always looking for plush textures, subtle patterns or elevated neutrals that bring a spa-like feel to bathrooms or add that perfect finishing touch when staging," Cloud says. "They’re an easy, affordable way to layer in softness and make a space feel intentional."
Throw Pillows
HomeGoods usually categorizes pillows by color, which makes it easy to find the right design for your home's palette. "They are fun, cozy and the simplest way to refresh any space without breaking the bank," says Tehilla Bennett of Teela Bennett Design. It's also simple to change them seasonally if you want. Bennett says to think "fresh, bright colors in spring when everything starts to bloom, and warm, textured fabrics in the fall to make the space feel cozy."
Decorative Vases and Trays
Home Made by Carmona's Ursula Carmona, who uses her platform to spread the word about the retailer as a HomeGoods Featured Finder, tends to frequent this section of the store. "HomeGoods is my emergency run for those final decorative accessories after completing a room," says Carmona, who often looks for eye-catching trays, vases and sculptural pieces. "They are more than just fillers; a room doesn't feel complete without these charming touches."
Picture Frames
It's easy to find frames to arrange a gallery wall or a unique pick to display a favorite family photo on a console table. "You really can’t beat [its] prices on frames, and they are such an easy upgrade," Bennett says. You can usually spot wood styles, gold designs, patterned options, you name it.
Kids' Bathroom Accessories
Outfitting a bathroom for a young kid or teenager? You can look to the retailer for bath mats and vanity countertop accessories. "Though HomeGoods is more temporal in nature, we love the thrill of finding perfect pieces for rooms that will be outgrown in a few years," says designer Lara Apelian of Lara Apelian Studio.
Lighting
Table lamps and floor lamps are another area where the retailer shines. "Everyone is obsessed with 'the small light' for good reason; this is where ambiance makes a home feel cozy," Carmona says. "HomeGoods is always my go-to for stylish and affordable lighting. From trendy table lamps, to show-stopping floor lamps, to the most adorable little cordless lamps we'll take with us from room to room.
Monique Valeris is the home design director for Good Housekeeping, where she oversees the brand's home decorating coverage across print and digital. Prior to joining GH in 2020, she was the digital editor at Elle Decor. In her current role, she explores everything from design trends and home tours to lifestyle product recommendations, including writing her monthly column, "What's in My Cart."
