When we bought our first home, I was giddy. Giddy in that “I’ve already pinned 200 gallery walls and I haven’t even unpacked the kitchen” kind of way. But then reality hit: our savings had mostly gone to the down payment, and suddenly, turning this blank space into a chic, polished, Instagram-worthy home felt… a bit out of reach.
Still, I was determined to make our house feel stylish—even luxurious—without maxing out our credit cards. So I got scrappy, creative, and yes, a little obsessed with online decor sales.
Here are 12 easy tricks I learned that can make your home look more expensive, even if your budget says otherwise.
1. Start with Statement Lighting
When I swapped out the builder-grade ceiling fixture in our dining area for a dramatic modern chandelier, it was like the entire room leveled up.
👉 This sculptural pendant is under $70 but looks like it belongs in a design magazine.
Lighting is one of the quickest ways to elevate your space—and most upgrades are renter-friendly too!
2. Use Oversized Art (Or Make Your Own)
One large piece of art has way more impact than a bunch of tiny ones. We framed a printable abstract piece we found on Etsy, and suddenly, our hallway felt like a gallery.
👉 This oversized canvas gives off luxury vibes without the designer price tag.
Pro tip: Print digital downloads at a local shop and frame them yourself to save big.
3. Add Trim or Molding
No, I’m not a carpenter. But even I managed to install peel-and-stick molding in our bedroom—and now everyone thinks it’s custom millwork.
👉 This DIY-friendly wall molding kit was easy to use and made a huge difference.
Details like crown molding or board and batten instantly give a room that elevated, built-in feel.
4. Upgrade Your Hardware
Our kitchen cabinets weren’t terrible… just a little blah. So I swapped out the basic knobs for matte black handles and boom—hello, high-end kitchen!
👉 These modern brass pulls are for a set and made our cabinets look custom.
Same goes for bathroom vanities, dresser drawers, and closet doors.
5. Layer Your Textiles
One throw blanket? Cute. Two pillows? Nice. But when you start layering different textures—bouclé, velvet, linen—it suddenly screams designer.
👉 This waffle knit throw and these velvet pillow covers gave our sofa a total glow-up.
Stick to a neutral palette and mix in texture for an effortless luxe look.
6. Add a Touch of Black
If I could whisper just one decorating tip to my past self, it would be this: Every room needs a bit of black.
It grounds the space and adds contrast, whether it’s a black picture frame, light fixture, or accent chair. And no, it won’t make your space feel dark—it’ll make it feel sharp.
7. Use Large Rugs (Yes, Even If They’re Cheap)
One of my biggest design regrets? Buying too-small rugs. A larger rug, even a budget one, instantly makes a room feel grander.
👉 This 8×10 Moroccan-style rug is affordable and makes our living room look twice the size.
Just make sure the front legs of your furniture sit on the rug—no floating islands allowed!
8. Style with Books (Even If You Don’t Read Them All)
I love a good coffee table book moment. Stack a few pretty spines on your sideboard or shelves, and it feels instantly high-end.
👉 These neutral-toned decor books are great for styling and flipping through on slow Sundays.
And no judgment if they’re more for looks than literature. We all have that one book we bought just for the cover.
9. Add Faux Florals or Greenery
Live plants are wonderful—but also… a commitment. Faux plants have come a long way, and the right ones can add life and color without the drama.
👉 This faux olive tree lives in our corner and fools everyone.
Mix in real plants if you can, but don’t sleep on high-quality fakes.
10. Keep It Cohesive
One thing I learned (the hard way): too many styles in one room feels chaotic. Try to pick a palette and stick with it.
Does that mean everything has to match? Absolutely not. But if your rug, curtains, and art all talk to each other (same tones, complementary textures), your space will feel intentional—and expensive.
11. Declutter Like You Mean It
Luxury doesn’t mean crowded. Some of the most expensive-looking rooms I’ve seen have less stuff—but better stuff.
Edit your shelves, pare down your knick-knacks, and leave a little breathing room. Think quality over quantity.
12. Personalize With Purpose
Here’s the secret sauce: add personality in small, curated ways. A vintage photo, a quirky sculpture, or that weird ceramic cat you can’t explain but love? That’s what makes your home yours.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make my house look expensive on a budget?
You don’t need a designer or a huge budget to create a luxe-looking home. Focus on a few high-impact upgrades like swapping out light fixtures, using oversized art, and layering rugs and textiles. Simple changes—like updating hardware or decluttering—can instantly elevate your space.
What color schemes make a house look more expensive?
Neutrals like ivory, taupe, charcoal, and warm greige create a sophisticated foundation. Add depth with black accents, warm wood, or brushed gold. Stick to a cohesive palette throughout your home to create a high-end, intentional look.
Does adding greenery really help my space look better?
Yes! Whether real or faux, greenery adds life, color, and texture—key ingredients for a polished space. Choose large statement plants (like a faux fiddle leaf fig) or clusters of smaller plants for visual interest.
What are some small changes that make a big difference?
Upgrading cabinet hardware, using statement lighting, and layering throw pillows or blankets can make a huge visual impact. Styling your shelves or coffee table with intention and adding large-scale art also go a long way.
Is it better to splurge on furniture or accessories?
Splurge on your most-used or most-visible items—like a quality sofa or stunning chandelier. Then save on accessories like throw pillows, baskets, and faux plants. Mixing high and low pieces creates a balanced, lived-in elegance.
Do rugs really matter in how expensive a room feels?
Absolutely. A too-small rug can make your space feel unfinished. Opt for the largest rug your room can handle so that at least the front legs of all furniture rest on it. It anchors the room and makes everything look more cohesive and elevated.
How can I make my space feel luxurious without making it cold or uninviting?
It’s all about balance. Combine clean lines with cozy textures—like bouclé, velvet, or linen. Add warmth with wood accents, soft lighting, and personal touches like framed photos or travel finds. Luxury doesn’t have to mean sterile.
