I'm an interior designer. Here are 10 ways to make your home look more expensive for cheap.

Hang curtains that go all the way to the ceiling.

Hanging curtains closer to the ceiling and letting them graze the floor creates an illusion of height and grandeur.

The trick elongates the visual lines of your walls, so your room feels more spacious and the windows appear larger. You don't even have to break the bank on window treatments. Ikea is my go-to for affordable curtains and rods.

Be sure to utilize mirrors.

Mirrors are your secret weapon for adding depth, light, and sophistication to your space.

Large, strategically placed mirrors can reflect both natural and artificial light, making your room feel brighter and more spacious. They also create intriguing visual layers and a sense of opulence.

Consider placing mirrors across from windows or adjacent to artwork to amplify their effect.

Always have three tiers of lighting.

In order to create an inviting atmosphere, you should utilize three tiers of lighting: Ambient, task, and accent. The three tiers of lighting force the eye to travel up and down, creating the illusion of a larger room.

Ambient lighting includes overhead fixtures such as chandeliers or recessed lighting. Task lighting is essential for functionality and aesthetics and can include elegant desk lamps, reading lights, or under-cabinet kitchen lighting. Finally, accent lighting highlights architectural features, artwork, or decorative elements.

To tap into each lighting tier, consider plug-in wall sconces, picture lights, or well-placed floor lamps that create drama and focus. 

Decorative molding isn't just for palaces.

Decorative molding can be an inexpensive way to add architectural charm to your space and make a huge difference.

There are even budget- and renter-friendly ways to add molding to your space, like peel-and-stick wall panels. Add crown or panel molding to any space and you've instantly elevated your room's style.

Don't pass up your local discount store.

Thrift stores can be a treasure trove of budget-friendly and vintage decor that comes with a rich history and unique character.

Incorporate these items into your design to infuse your space with a sense of narrative and individuality.

Each piece tells a story and brings an authenticity that's hard to replicate with brand-new, mass-produced items. In my opinion, that's a true luxury.

Upgrade your frames.

You can make almost any print look like a masterpiece by showcasing it in a chic, well-chosen frame.

I recommend downloading free public-domain art online, having it printed out (I find that this usually costs under $10), and heading to your local thrift store to find ornate, expensive-looking frames.

Nothing says luxury like a well-framed piece of art.

Layer your home in luxe textiles.

Draping your furniture in luxurious textiles like velvet, silk, or faux fur adds warmth and oozes sophistication and comfort.

I recommend mixing textures to add depth and visual intrigue to your space. This prevents the room from feeling flat or one-dimensional, which can often be the result of using only a single texture or material throughout.

When you combine different textures, your eyes have more to explore.

Make the switch to high-quality hardware.

Upgrading your cabinet knobs, handles, and faucets with high-quality hardware can make a significant difference in the perceived value of your space.

Opt for timeless and upscale finishes like antique or brushed brass, matte black, or polished chrome. These small details can instantly modernize your kitchen or bathroom.

Give your space some green elegance.

I think houseplants are the ultimate affordable luxury.

Lush greenery adds an air of freshness and sophistication to any room. They're natural mood boosters and can transform your home from a boring space to a tropical oasis.

You need to clear the clutter.

The most cost-effective way to make your home feel more expensive is to declutter.

A clean, organized space instantly always looks more polished and elegant. Even if you decorate well, it's not going to do much for your space if everything is hidden behind last week's laundry.

The more floor space you have, the larger the room appears. Remember, it's not about how much you spend but how cleverly you style your space.

This story was originally published on September 28, 2023, and most recently updated on September 24, 2024.