Creating an expensive, luxurious and visually appealing home doesn’t have to make a hole in your pocket. Whether you live in a small apartment or have a spacious family home, there are multiple ways to pull off a high-end luxurious look while keeping your budget intact.
To help you out, we consulted with some famous and renowned interior designers to share the best decorating tricks they use to make a home look more expensive. Some ideas like using neutral tones, incorporating pattern and texture and hanging statement lighting have long been iconic favourites of design pros. However, others may surprise you. So, read on for their best tips and advice.
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1. Layer Textures for Luxurious Atmosphere
“To create a luxurious atmosphere on a budget, the secret lies in layering textures thoughtfully across the space. Luxury isn’t just about expensive items; it’s about curating elements that work together to evoke richness and depth.
Start with furnishings that offer tactile appeal, like plush velvet cushions, elegant throws, and luxurious fabrics such as linen. These create a sense of warmth and visual comfort. Rugs also play a key role-choose those that feel soft underfoot and complement the overall design with colors or patterns that tie the space together.
Image by mollynicolehome
Lighting is another essential element. Instead of relying solely on overhead lights, incorporate floor lamps, table lamps, or pendant lights with textured bases or finishes like marble or brass. These lighting options create a warm, ambient glow that enhances the luxurious feel of the room, casting soft shadows that highlight the textures around them.
For decor, choose elegant pieces that add personality without overwhelming the space. Sculptural vases, metallic trays, or artful bowls bring refinement and character to surfaces. Wall art with subtle textures or abstract designs adds visual interest and sophistication, turning the walls into a focal point that elevates the space.
Plants have a transformative effect as well. Select greenery with architectural shapes or sculptural leaves to infuse the room with life and organic beauty.
Finally, small but thoughtful details like custom curtains in rich fabrics, high-quality bedding, and carefully selected accessories contribute to a cohesive and elevated environment. These touches, when combined thoughtfully, help create a space that feels balanced, timeless, and luxurious, proving that a luxurious feel comes from attention to detail and thoughtful design, not just expensive items.” – Richa Kumra, Luxury Interior Designer, Admira Designs
2. Play with Asymmetry in Furniture Placement
“One thing I’ve learned in my time as a furniture store owner is that you don’t need to spend a lot to make a space feel luxurious. A simple trick I’ve used is playing with asymmetry in furniture placement. Instead of always centering everything perfectly, try shifting a sofa a little to one side or using an off-center coffee table. It’s a subtle change, but it creates a more relaxed, stylish vibe that feels natural and curated, not too staged.
Image by thehomeofthebbs
I’ve seen this approach transform rooms for clients. It’s not about buying expensive pieces but about how you arrange what you already have. The beauty of asymmetry is that it draws your attention to the right details in the room, making the space feel more intentional and unique. It’s a small tweak that adds personality and gives the room a more luxurious, lived-in feel without spending a fortune.” – Shaofeng Li, Founder and Designer, popmasion
3. Use Oversized Mirrors to Add Depth
“One budget-friendly design technique I’ve used to make a home look more luxurious is incorporating oversized mirrors. Strategically placing a large mirror in a room not only amplifies natural light but also creates the illusion of a larger, more open space. For instance, in a smaller living room I worked on, I mounted an antique-style mirror with an ornate frame opposite the main window.
Image by bohotribex
The effect was stunning—it added depth, elegance, and a sense of sophistication to the room, all without breaking the bank. Mirrors are a timeless, versatile element that, when chosen thoughtfully, can completely elevate a space’s aesthetic.” – Ketie Zhang, Founder, Ketie Story
4. Transform Bathroom into Private Spa Retreat
“One budget-friendly way to make a home look more luxurious is by transforming the bathroom into a private spa retreat. A few simple upgrades can elevate the space without breaking the bank.
Start with lighting – swap harsh overhead lights for warm, layered lighting with dimmable sconces or LED candles to create a calming ambiance.
Image by artdecojewel
Next, upgrade textiles: plush towels, a chic bath mat, and a waffle-weave robe instantly add a hotel-like feel. Introduce natural elements like eucalyptus in the shower or a bamboo bath tray to enhance the spa-like atmosphere. Lastly, replace cluttered product bottles with uniform dispensers and add a few minimalist decor pieces, such as a sleek stool or a small indoor plant.
The impact? A bathroom that feels like a five-star retreat – soothing, stylish, and effortlessly elegant. Even guests will take notice, making your home feel more polished and refined without a luxury price tag.” – Richard Murray, Managing Director, Odyssey Bathrooms
5. Mix Fabrics for Depth and Richness
“I always tell people that layering textures is the easiest way to make a home feel more luxurious without spending a fortune. Mixing fabrics like velvet, linen, and faux fur adds depth and richness that plain decor lacks. A basic sofa looks expensive with a few textured cushions.
A simple bedspread feels high-end with a chunky knit throw. I once helped a customer transform their living room just by adding textured curtains and a wool-blend rug. Well, that and they spent less than $200 making it happen.
Image by thewhitehoneyhome
I have seen firsthand how this small change completely elevates a space. A well-layered room feels more inviting, polished, and thoughtfully designed. Customers often tell me their homes look professionally styled after swapping flat, lifeless fabrics for rich, layered ones.
One even mentioned that guests started assuming they had hired an interior designer. Honestly, luxury is not always about price-it is about creating depth and warmth. The devil is in the details, and texture is the secret ingredient.” – Jay Soni, Founder and Director of Sales and Marketing, Yorkshire Fabric Shop
6. Install Heated Flooring for Spa-Like Feel
“One specific, budget-friendly design technique I’ve used to make a home look more luxurious is installing heated flooring in the bathroom. Heated floors provide a high-end touch and create a spa-like feel, which lifts the overall atmosphere without a major investment. For around $10 per square foot, this upgrade is a feasible option for many homeowners and adds comfort and appeal with every step.
Image by homebohodesign
In a project we did for a Denver client, we installed radiant heating under porcelain tiles in their master bathroom. This simple addition turned the space from ordinary to extraordinary. The homeowner reported a marked increase in daily comfort during winter mornings, and guests often commented on the luxurious feel, likening it to boutique hotels.
Considering the dramatic effect on comfort and perceived value, heated flooring is a feature I recommend for those looking to make a big impact on a tight budget. It’s an upgrade that adds both functionality and sophistication, perfect for homeowners aiming to improve their living spaces while keeping costs manageable.” – Mike Martinez, Owner, Accountable Home Services
7. Choose Lighting for Instant Luxury
“In my projects, well-chosen lighting creates instant luxury without breaking the budget. I often install an oversized arched floor lamp that sweeps over a sofa or is placed in a corner. I then pair this with a statement pendant placed centrally in the room or over a dining/living table.
Image by houseof_york
This combination works wonders – the arched lamp adds style while providing perfect task lighting, and the pendant becomes the room’s centerpiece. Together, they create layers of soft, warm light in the evening, making the space feel cozy and expensive. These two pieces give you a high-end look for much less than custom furniture or renovations.” – Alina Enache, Design Coordinator, Lamp Genius
8. Add Stenciling and Crown Molding
“Hear me out: it’s all about stenciling and crown molding. Sure, it may not be original, but it looks extremely luxurious and beautiful, and it adds a little something-something to a basic space.
Image by ninafarmerinteriors
The best part is that it doesn’t cost much at all and you can either have a specialist do it or you can even do it yourself. The cost is minimal, but the effect is huge.” – Rick Berres, Owner, Honey-Doers
9. Repurpose Vintage Textiles for Custom Decor
“A budget-friendly design technique I have done to make a home look more luxurious is repurposing vintage textiles into custom upholstery and drapery. There is something about the depth and character of an old textile that instantly elevates a space.
Many people overlook this because they assume custom work is expensive, but sourcing vintage fabrics from flea markets, estate sales, or even old family heirlooms can be surprisingly affordable. A beautiful, timeworn fabric can be transformed into pillow covers, reupholstered chairs, or statement drapes that bring texture and personality into a room.
Image by oakleymooreinteriordesign
The impact this had on the space was undeniable. I once covered a set of simple dining chairs in an antique French grain sack fabric, and it changed the entire feel of the room. The slightly faded, handwoven texture added a depth that mass-produced fabrics do not replicate.
The space felt curated and thoughtful rather than overly polished. Another time, I turned an old embroidered tablecloth into a set of curtains. The intricate stitching and delicate details caught the light, making the entire room feel softer and more inviting.” – Jehann Biggs, President & Owner, In2Green
10. Upgrade Trim and Molding for Finished Look
“In my experience, one of the easiest ways to make a home look more high-end is upgrading the trim and molding. Small details around doors, windows, and ceilings create a finished look that makes any space feel custom.
For me personally, the most effective trick has been extending baseboards and adding crown molding in key areas. A room with basic trim can feel flat, but even a few inches of added height on baseboards or a well-placed ceiling detail makes a huge difference. This small upgrade costs a fraction of what people expect but instantly makes a home feel more polished. In my experience, homeowners are often shocked at how much more refined their space looks with this one change.
Image by homeatfaydrive
I believe many homeowners assume luxury comes from big-ticket items, but subtle upgrades do just as much to change the feel of a home. A well-framed doorway or a carefully designed ceiling can make a room feel structured and intentional without adding a major expense. In my experience, small changes with trim have one of the highest impacts per dollar spent.” – Tyler Hull, Owner and General Manager, Modern Exterior
11. Add Full-Length Curtains for Transformation
“Adding full-length curtains can completely transform the look of a room without costing much. I once worked with a seller whose living room felt a bit underwhelming despite having good natural light. We chose inexpensive sheer curtains and mounted them higher than the window frame to make the ceilings appear taller. The fabric was light and neutral, giving the space an airy, upscale feel.
Image by oo.angiee
This small change made the room feel more open and sophisticated, which caught buyers’ attention during showings. Several even commented on how much they loved the “spaciousness” of the living room. It’s amazing how subtle design elements can change the perception of a space. Creating that polished look added to the overall appeal. It’s a cost-effective way to make a big impact.” – Sebastian Wade, Real Estate Consultant, Eden Emerald Buyers Agent
12. Paint Interior Doors with Stylish Hardware
“One budget-friendly technique I’ve used recently is upgrading interior doors with paint and stylish hardware, painting them a deep charcoal or black and adding sleek brass doorhandles (or knobs).
Image by sucasadesign
The contrast makes doors look more substantial and draws the eye, instantly elevating the space. It feels like a custom design element, but it costs far less than overhauling furniture or installing pricey fixtures.” – Inge Von Aulock, Head of Creative, Luxury Bedding Co.
13. Keep Monochromatic Color Palette for Sophistication
“I recently renovated a 140-year-old historic home, and I found that by keeping the color palette monochromatic, muted, and soft, it instantly made the space feel more luxurious without relying on expensive furniture. Sticking to a cohesive color scheme creates a sense of calm and sophistication, making everything feel intentional. The key is not to overdo it—too many bold elements can make a space feel cluttered rather than luxurious.” – Vivian Chen, Founder & CEO, Rise Remote Jobs
Image by beautifulhomesinthenorth
14. Add Fragrance for Luxurious Feel
“One of the most budget-friendly ways to make a home feel luxurious is through fragrance. Adding a carefully selected scent to every room instantly elevates the space, making it feel refined, luxurious, fresh and welcoming. Home fragrance is often overlooked in interior design, yet it has one of the highest impacts on how a space feels, at a fraction of the cost of new furniture or decor.
Image by ecoya
To create a cohesive experience, ensure all scents harmonize and change them with the seasons or occasions. A warm, woody fragrance in winter can make a space feel cozy, while a fresh citrus scent in summer brings an airy elegance.Our customers regularly tell us about the wonderful compliments they get for their home and how it always smells beautiful, proving that fragrance leaves a lasting impression that is budget-friendly.
The lesson is simple: decorating is not just about what you see but also about what you sense. A well-chosen fragrance transforms a home, adding a luxurious feel and personality effortlessly.” – Huib Maat, in-House Perfumer, Pairfum London
If you love these ideas, don’t forget to pin the above image to your “Home and Garden” board.
