Searching for tips on how to make your house look expensive on a budget? Look no further!
Your home should be your happy place. So let's dive into these low budget options that will really elevate your space!
Fresh Paint
Let's start with a blank canvas—literally! A fresh coat of paint can work wonders in transforming your space and giving it a high-end look.
Opt for neutral tones like soft grays, warm beiges, or crisp whites for a timeless appeal. These colors provide a sophisticated backdrop that allows your furniture and decor to shine.
Don't shy away from bold hues entirely, though! A strategically placed accent wall or painted ceiling can add drama and depth to your room without overwhelming the space.
Custom Woodwork
I know, I know, it sounds expensive. But it doesn't have to be!
Utilizing custom woodwork is so powerful because it adds some architectural interest to a space. Custom trim, whether it runs through your whole house, or just one accent wall, gives your home, well, a custom look!
Picture frame molding is a fantastic way to create depth and visual interest on your walls. And my favorite part is that it is surprisingly cheap and easy to DIY.
Below you can see the picture frame molding details on the side of my staircase.
And in the following photo, you can see that we have paneling on the wall in our laundry room. It adds a sophisticated subtle interest to the room.
Here are some other ways to use custom trim in your home...
Custom Woodwork Ideas
The sky is truly the limit when it comes to incorporating custom woodwork into your home. We were fortunate enough that our old house came with some very detailed trim work.
Check out these window casings in our living room!
Light Fixtures
Lighting can make or break the ambiance of a room. Swap out those outdated fixtures for something sleek and sophisticated.
Think modern chandeliers or statement pendant lights. Investing in dimmer switches can also enhance the atmosphere, allowing you to adjust the lighting to suit different moods and occasions.
I strongly urge you to consider layering your lighting! Combining a mix of overhead fixtures, table lamps, and floor lamps will create depth and warmth in your space.
Keeping all the lighting on one level (for example: only using overhead lighting) makes the space feel more stale.
Short on space for floor lamps or table lamps? No problem!
Utilize wall sconces to create more types of lighting in a room, without sacrificing precious floor space. You don't even need to hard-wire anything in!
Pro Tip: You can use mount sconces to the wall and use battery operated light bulbs. No hard-wiring required!
Rugs
Don't underestimate the power of a good rug. A well-chosen rug can tie a room together and instantly elevate its aesthetic.
Opt for plush materials like wool or silk for a luxurious feel underfoot. Bold patterns and rich colors can add drama and personality to your space, while also helping to define separate areas in an open floor plan.
Afraid your room runs the risk of feeling too busy? No worries!
Natural fiber rugs such as sisal, jute, seagrass, and hemp, are a fantastic way to add warmth and texture to your space. They rarely have patterns, so they can be a nice calming element in a room that may already have a bold focal point.
Remember to choose a rug size that fits your room correctly—too small, and it'll look lost, too big, and it'll overwhelm the space.
Don't know where to start? A general rule of thumb is to leave 18-24 inches of floor space between the edge of the rug and the walls. This creates a visually appealing border and helps to define the area.
Pro Tip: To visualize how different rug sizes will look in your space, use painter's tape to outline the dimensions on the floor. This allows you to see the scale of the rug and how it relates to the rest of the room before making a final decision.
Window Treatments
Say goodbye to boring blinds and hello to chic curtains or drapes. Invest in some quality window treatments to frame your view and add a touch of elegance to your space.
Opt for fabrics like velvet or linen for a luxurious look and feel.
You should also consider the length and fullness of your curtains—floor-to-ceiling panels can make your ceilings appear taller, while extra-wide panels make your windows appear larger (and more grand).
If you'd like to learn more about how to find the perfect window treatments for your space and how to hang curtains properly, check out my Guide to Window Treatments.
Custom-made curtains can be pricey, but there are some options available today that offer a tailored finish for a significantly lower investment.
In case you missed it, these particular custom curtains have gone viral on the internet due to their style, durability, and affordable price tag!
Mix and Match Furniture
Repeat after me: Say no to matching furniture sets!
While they may seem convenient, they often leave your space feeling uninspired.
Instead, mix and match different furniture pieces to create a curated look that screams sophistication. Incorporate a variety of materials, such as wood, metal, and glass, to add texture and visual interest.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different styles and eras—eclectic spaces often have the most character. Just remember to maintain a cohesive color palette and scale to ensure everything harmonizes beautifully.
Freshen Up Heat Register Covers
It's the little details that count, folks! Take a look at your heat register covers or radiator covers. Are they looking a bit worse for wear?
Give them a fresh coat of paint or consider replacing them altogether. Trust me, it's these small touches that make all the difference.
Choose a finish that complements your existing decor—satin or matte for a subtle look, or metallic for a touch of glamour.
You can even get creative with decorative covers that double as statement pieces.
How to make your house look expensive
In conclusion, making your house look expensive doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg. With a little creativity and some savvy shopping, you can transform your space into a personal haven that's sure to impress!
Let me know in the comments what you plan on incorporating into your space!
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