9 Splurge-Worthy Additions for Your New Home

'Buy What You Love'

Years ago, as I stood before a dressing room mirror debating the merits of a dress, a friend shared her wisdom. “If you don’t love it, don’t buy it,” she said.

So simple. And yet it struck me as an epiphany. Why hadn’t I known that before? Of course I should only buy things that I loved. Instead, I gave into temptation, and my finances suffered for it. (You can track your own finances by viewing two of your credit scores, with updates every two weeks, for free on Credit.com.)

We’ve all done it: Frittered away $10 on a forgettable lunch, or dropped $20 on a book we never read. Money comes and goes, but the things you love are forever. Why not spend on things that you’ll cherish?

We’ve gathered some items for your new home, all designed for the long term. Fair warning: If you’re on a budget (and who isn’t these days), proceed through this slideshow with caution. The last thing you want is to get into debt, especially if your new home came with a mortgage. (Go here to determine your monthly housing budget.) These are items hand-picked with true splurging in mind — but only if you can afford them and, of course, love them.

Arcahorn Architettura Chess Set

This masculine chess set looks like a true work of art, thanks to pieces handcrafted from buffalo horn and palladium. Purchase it on Artedona.com.

Price: $9,315.43

Nelson Night Clock

Some things stand the test of time, especially if George Nelson Associates designed them. Produced by Vitra Design Museum, the brass edition of the original Night Clock can be found at Design Within Reach.

Price: $490

Mirror Throw

Verner Panton’s S-shaped Panton Chair was considered a Danish design masterpiece when it was released in the 1960s. His Mirror Throw (1973) may not be as iconic, but its two-toned design, rendered in merino wool, is certainly cozier. Find it at Design Within Reach.

Price: $280.50

Fruit Drops Jam Jar

Hand-blown by glassmakers in the Czech Republic, this Moser crystal jam jar is an elegant addition to any kitchen. Order yours at williamandson.com.

Price: £625 (About $780)

Waterford Talon Red Coupe Glasses

This red-tipped stemware lends drama to any occasion. Order yours at Bloomingdales.com.

Price: $175 for a set of two

Prismalo Colored Pencil Set

This vibrant pencil set, packaged in a box with a stand on the back, would entice anyone to start drawing. Purchase yours at CWPencils.com.

Price: $72

Kosta Boda Brick Votives

These artsy glass votives come in black, white, blue, green and purple. Order yours at Bloomingdales.com.

Price: $50 each

Romeo Floor Lamp

Long before Philippe Starck turned his focus to scent, he designed hotels, Ghost Chairs and superyachts. His versatile floor lamp, released in 1996, is available at 100mileny.com.

Price: $1,395

Sea Fan on Ombre Twilight Pillow

Designer Aviva Stanoff presses real objects into her fabric, one at a time, to make each piece distinct. This stunning pillow can be found on her website, avivastanoff.com.

Price: $250 to $395