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Looking for a way to live luxuriously at home without breaking the bank? It turns out that experts have some tricks of the trade to share to help you achieve a high-end look for less. This means having a curated look in which the detail, scale, and balance of a room (or entire home) are in sync and the colors and accessories coordinate well with one another, says Karen Dzendolet, principal/owner KDZ Designs, LLC in Massachusetts. Check out these home decor dupes to take your home from drab to fab on a limited budget.
1. Add a fresh coat of paint.
Painting the walls and trim is the most dramatic way to transform a space with minimal expense, says Shiva Samiei, interior designer and CEO of SHIVA SAMIEI & Co in Los Angeles, California. “Walls should be warm whites or soft grays, and crisp white trim that automatically elevates any room,” she says. Her clients are always pleasantly surprised by how a $100 paint job makes their space look like it costs millions. A high-quality paint in a matte finish will bring the best results.
2. Be strategic about lighting.
The right lighting can quickly elevate a home. Veiko Kallas, interior designer and founder of JALG in Tallinn, Estonia, recommends swapping out standard ceiling lights for statement fixtures, like chandeliers or pendant lights, to bring a touch of luxury. “Also, layering different types of lighting (ambient, task, and accent) can create a more sophisticated, mood-enhancing atmosphere, which gives your home a higher-end feel,” he says. Plus, smart lighting options like LEDs on dimmers can allow you to control ambiance with ease.
3. Decorate with large art and framed photographs.
Hanging large pieces of artwork creates a visual impact, says Samiei. She encourages her clients to frame large-scale engineering prints or vintage posters. “Black-and-white photographs also look particularly sophisticated when matted and framed uniformly,” she says. One of her clients spent just $300 framing family photos in matching frames, and guests thought it looked like a professional gallery wall.
4. Update hardware.
Small details like drawer pulls, knobs, and handles can have a huge impact on the overall look of your space, says Kallas. “Swapping out cheap, outdated hardware for sleek, modern options can make a bathroom or kitchen feel like it was done by a pro,” he says. Look for finishes like matte black, brushed brass, or polished nickel and chrome for a luxurious and timeless feel.
5. Choose a few statement pieces.
Create a high-end look by mixing in a few luxe items with more affordable, well-chosen ones, says Kallas. For example, invest in a statement piece like a sofa or a beautiful rug, but complement it with stylish, budget-friendly decor. “The contrast between high and low creates a balanced, curated atmosphere,” he says. One way to achieve this standout piece is to reupholster a chair or couch with eye-catching fabric, says Dzendolet.
6. Sprinkle a variety of textiles throughout.
Jazz up your home by incorporating different textures with pillows, rugs, throws, and cushions. “These [elements] can be used in living spaces (on sofas, beds, etc.), and when made from richer fabrics (think wool, cotton, and other natural fabrics), they focus the eye and elevate the look of a space,” explains Dzendolet. She also suggests replacing old window treatments with new ones to enhance the space.
7. Hang decorative mirrors.
Another simple trick to help make your home look more expensive and expansive is by hanging some decorative mirrors. “Mirrors are an excellent way to add an instant touch of elegance to any room,” notes Kallas. “They not only reflect light, making your space feel brighter and larger, but they also create the illusion of depth.” Consider placing large, framed mirrors on walls to enhance the sense of luxury without spending a fortune.