How to Make Your Home Look Expensive

Whether you search on Pinterest, browse interior design websites, or binge HGTV, you’re bound to long for a home renovation. But let’s face it: most of us don’t have a hefty savings account or the time for such an investment.

Instead of busting down walls or trying to calculate the amount of flooring needed, there’s an easier way to make your home look expensive without breaking the bank. We all deserve beautiful homes, and it’s achievable with these ideas.

You wouldn’t drive to a new, unfamiliar destination without directions, would you? So why would you start a home makeover without a plan?

Before you start shopping for home decor, take some time to consider what your style truly is. Look at inspiration online or in magazines and create a vision board to help you define your personal aesthetic.

To put it into words, consider these home decor styles as a starting point:

• Farmhouse
• Mid-century modern
• Rustic
• Traditional
• Shabby chic
• Boho
• Minimalist
• Maximalist

Once you have a better understanding of your style, it’s time to set a budget (I know, ew, math and numbers!). But it’s important to figure out how much you can afford to spend on your project and a limit you can realistically stick to.

It’ll probably be tempting to overspend on that expensive retro-looking couch or live-edge table, but think about it: how long will you love it? What’s trendy always seems like the way to go, but it’s better to refer to your personal style so your home will look cohesive (and you’ll love it longer!).

Next, set realistic goals and deadlines for yourself to ensure you stay on track and don’t get overwhelmed. Break your project down into smaller, more manageable tasks, and set a timeline for each one. If you need to call in a plumber or general handyman, make sure to have those contacts at the ready.

Taking the time to plan and organize means setting yourself (and your home) up for success!

When it comes to incorporating color into your home decor, there really is no right or wrong way to do it. It’s all a matter of personal preference and what you find visually appealing. While neutrals can provide a timeless look, some people might prefer a brighter and more vibrant color selection.

It’s important to follow your own personal taste because it can be counterintuitive to choose a color palette that you’ll eventually get tired of after a few months. That said, pick a color you love and build your palette around it.

If you’re considering painting multiple rooms, it’s a good idea to look for shades and hues that complement each other. This way, you’ll have more options to choose from and can create a cohesive look throughout your home.

Choosing a color palette can also help you select home decor and other design elements that match the room’s theme and style.

Focus on focal points

You’d think the words stylish and functional can’t exist within the realm of furniture, but they certainly do. It’s all about placement. Start with thinking about what timeless pieces you can incorporate—these will act as your “anchor” so to speak to pull the look together.

These are typically investment pieces but will stand the test of time, hence creating a luxurious ambiance. However, if your budget doesn’t allow for a brand-new wooden dining table or neutral-colored area rugs, don’t worry, you have options. Secondhand or consignment stores are excellent places to look for those items.

Once you have an idea of the type of furniture you want in your space, it’s time to lay out the focal points. This is a way to draw your attention to certain items to create visual interest. Think of bold-colored or patterned accent chairs or dramatic light fixtures.

Of course, less is more when it comes to furniture and decor items—it’s more about quality than quantity.

Bring in the cozy

“Expensive” doesn’t have to mean stark white and sterile. Nowadays, it’s more about creating a welcoming and warm space. The best ways to achieve this are by curating artwork, mirrors, luxe textiles, and throws.

Artwork adds color and interest and can be swapped out if you want to change things up. Mirrors can make a small space seem bigger and more open as they reflect the light. Blankets and drapes easily add texture and comfort.

This is also where you can showcase your personality more. So, feel free to tap more into your personal tastes and get colorful, moody, or playful!

Light it up

You can’t create ambiance without lighting. This sets the overall tone for your home.

You want your fixtures to match the aesthetic you’re going to elevate the design. Decide if you want pendants, lots of recessed lighting (if your budget allows), or even chandeliers. From there, consider the type of materials—do you want metal, rope, stained glass?

Don’t think you have to stick to only one option or style though. When it comes to lighting, utilize the layering technique. By combining ambient, task, and accent lighting, you enhance the functionality of your space while creating an inviting atmosphere.

Bring on the green(ery)

No, no, I’m not going to tell you to paint all the walls green or reupholster your furniture in an emerald-green hue. Instead, let’s talk about bringing nature inside.

The obvious way to go is to incorporate plants. Not only do they add brightness and color to a room, but they also offer plenty of health benefits—from cleaner air to lifting your mood.

However, if you have a black thumb (welcome to the club!), faux plants are a better option. Even though their benefits are limited, they give off the illusion of an expensive space. You can even coordinate the pots and containers to match the ambiance you’re going for.

If plants aren’t really your thing, using natural materials like wood and stone can also add warmth and texture to a room. Think of adding a wooden coffee table or replacing your fireplace’s surface with stone veneer—great focal point options.

For more intimate spaces, like the bedroom, think of adding a wooden headboard. For bathrooms, especially a powder room, you can incorporate floral motifs by installing removal wallpaper (in case you change your mind later).

Tying these tips together help create a more relaxing and tranquil living space.

DIY and budget-friendly tips

You don’t have to shy away from luxe accents or upscale pieces because of your budget. With a little creativity and resourcefulness, you can give your home a custom touch without breaking the bank.

Upcycling and repurposing are one way to achieve an expensive look without overspending. You can easily transform old or unused items into something new and stylish that fits your personal taste.

For example, you can get a little crafty and innovative by turning a vintage suitcase into a unique coffee table or nightstands. Another instance is to repurpose old glass bottles into chic vases for your (faux or real) plants or flowers (a personal favorite!).

When you’re out and about looking for pieces or ideas, it’s all about shopping smartly. Shop during sales or look for gently used items at thrift stores or online marketplaces for those high-quality pieces at discounted prices. For a cohesive look, go for pieces that can be mixed or matched with your already-existing furniture.

Shopping smart doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality. You’ll save money and feel proud of the unique touches you’ve added to your space.

Luxurious choices

I know we’ve spent a lot of time discussing budget-friendly ways to make your home look expensive. However, if you really want to go all out, why not consider some luxe options?

High-end materials like marble, brass, and silk can be used in various ways to create a luxurious look and feel. For instance, you can add a touch of luxury to your kitchen or bathroom by using marble countertops.

Similarly, brass fixtures can be used in your lighting or plumbing to add a classic and timeless feel. And silk curtains can create an elegant, ethereal look.

You can also incorporate statement pieces like a tiered chandelier or a large piece of original artwork. These can easily act as a focal point in the room and instantly draw attention.

Love your (new) home

Making your home look and feel expensive is all about reflecting your personal style with hints of timeless pieces, statement furniture, and elegant decor and fixtures. Taking a thoughtful and resourceful approach to your home makeover creates a space that looks stylish without breaking the bank.

Remember, it’s not about the cost of individual items, but rather how you curate and combine them to create an overall look and feel that reflects your personal taste and style. With a little creativity and attention to detail, you can transform your home into a stunning sanctuary that you’ll love spending time in for years to come!

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