- Good point about tenants maybe not noticing the pricier stuff... I've had similar experiences.
- Recently swapped out a high-end faucet (that no one ever commented on) for a mid-range Delta—suddenly everyone's complimenting it. Go figure.
- Makes me wonder if it's more about ease of use and reliability than brand prestige or price tag.
- Maybe trying out a couple solid mid-tier brands like Moen or Delta could help pinpoint that balance you're talking about...
Had a similar experience renovating our guesthouse. Initially went with a high-end European faucet—beautiful, sleek, but guests never noticed or commented. Switched it out for a mid-range Moen (WaterSense certified, of course), and suddenly everyone was remarking on how nice it was. Seems like practicality and intuitive design resonate more than brand prestige. Plus, from an eco-friendly perspective, mid-tier brands often have great sustainable options without breaking the bank... something worth considering.
Totally get where you're coming from—it's funny how the practical stuff often gets more appreciation than the fancy designer pieces. I've had similar experiences with lighting fixtures; splurged on a gorgeous chandelier for our dining room, and guests barely noticed. Swapped it for something simpler but adjustable, and suddenly everyone loved it. Maybe it's about ease of use or familiarity? Curious if others have noticed this trend with other home upgrades too...
"Maybe it's about ease of use or familiarity?"
Could be, but honestly, I think it's more about function over flashiness. I've seen it happen with faucets too—my sleek, minimalist fixture looked amazing but drove everyone nuts because the handle was awkward and water splashed everywhere. Switched to a simpler, sturdier model and suddenly everyone's complimenting it. People appreciate things that work without fuss, even if they're less Instagram-worthy. Fancy stuff is great, but if it's a pain to use daily...forget it.
Totally agree with this. I went through something similar when we redid our kitchen sink. Initially, I was drawn to this sleek, modern faucet—looked great in the showroom, but at home it was a nightmare. The water pressure was weirdly intense, and the handle placement made it awkward to use without splashing everywhere. Switched to a basic, no-frills model and honestly couldn't be happier. Sometimes simpler really is better...especially when you're using it multiple times a day.
