10 Designer-Approved Upgrades That Will Instantly Make Your Home Look Expensive



Have you ever walked into a home and wondered how it looks so polished and put-together? The secret isn’t always a high price tag. Designers have a few go-to tricks that create a luxurious, custom feel without requiring a full renovation. We've compiled 10 of our favorite tips, based on advice from interior design pros, that will instantly elevate your home.




01.| Upgrade Your Lighting and Hardware



Switching out the basic fixtures and hardware that come standard in most homes is a high-impact, low-cost update. As interior designer Amy Konarzycki of Studio AK notes, builder-grade features like bland lighting and hardware can be instantly improved by choosing items with more personality. 


Consider a new statement light fixture or simple yet elegant sconces to update a room’s ambiance. You can also easily swap out cabinet pulls, doorknobs, and even light switches with options in a sleek metal finish like antique brass or black to make your home look more expensive.



 


02|. Create the Illusion of Higher Ceilings



Soaring ceilings are a key feature in expensive homes, but you can fake this look in a smaller space. By hanging curtain rods closer to the ceiling and opting for long, flowing drapes, you can create the illusion of a taller ceiling. This simple tweak draws the eye upward, giving the room a grander and more spacious feel.


Simple linen or cotton fabrics work best for creating an organic texture that feels high-end without being over-the-top.




03|. Layer Your Bedding and Textiles



In the bedroom, a simple trick to make the space feel more luxurious is to layer your bedding. Both Dorothy McGhee of McGhee Studios and Amy Konarzycki recommend combining crisp sheets, fluffy duvets, and cozy throws. The key is to add different textures and weights to create a rich, inviting look. This layering technique instantly makes a bed feel more plush, just like in a high-end hotel. 


To take this a step further, consider layering your pillows as well. Adding a mix of pillow sizes, from standard sleeping pillows to a few decorative shams, instantly elevates the look and creates a more professional, designer-made feel.






04|. Incorporate Architectural Details



Adding architectural details can make a home feel custom and well-built. A fresh coat of paint on your trim, for example, can instantly define features like staircases and windows. You might choose to refresh dated woodwork with a classic white or go for a modern contrast with a darker color. 


For an extra touch of luxury, an idea from an article on Better Homes & Gardens is to add narrow strips of molding to plain walls to create a paneled, high-end look without the custom price.




05|. Make Your Bathroom Feel Spa-Like



Transforming your bathroom into a tranquil, spa-like space is a great way to add a touch of luxury. According to designer Dorothy McGhee, you can do this easily with a few minor details. Try swapping out mismatched bottles for a matching set, adding a good rug, and finishing with a piece of art and a scented candle. Fluffy white towels and a sleek new shower curtain are also quick updates that go a long way.





06|. Use Oversized Mirrors



Mirrors are a designer’s tool for making a space feel larger and brighter. A large, ornate mirror hung over a console table or a full-length mirror leaning against a wall can add a sense of drama and sophistication. They also reflect light, which makes the room feel more open and airy, creating an illusion of space that is typically associated with expensive homes.




07|. Go Big with Rugs and Lighting



When it comes to rugs and lighting, a common mistake is choosing pieces that are too small. Designer Sophie Clemson suggests going large with your rugs, especially in the living room. Choose a rug that is big enough to fit under the front feet of your sofa to anchor the space. She also recommends oversized lighting to create a focal point, like a big table lamp or a statement ceiling light, which will instantly make a strong impact.






08|. Elevate Your Picture Frames



When framing photographs and artwork, the frames themselves can make a big difference. An article in House Beautiful suggests using picture frames with oversized mounts to give them a more luxurious look. Also, consider frames made of natural materials like wood in a shade that complements your decor, as this can elevate a space and add a subtle point of interest.




09|. Bring in Natural Textures



A room feels more luxurious when it’s rich with a variety of textures. Incorporate a mix of materials like linen, velvet, wool, and natural wood to add depth and tactile richness. For a curated feel, try layering a cozy knit blanket over a linen sofa, or placing a plush velvet pillow on a leather chair. This simple strategy makes a room feel more inviting and thoughtfully designed.




10|. Create a Focal Point with a Gallery Wall



A thoughtfully curated gallery wall adds personality and a custom touch to your home. It’s a great way to showcase a collection of art, photographs, or mementos. By using a consistent frame style or color, you can create a cohesive look that feels professional and intentional, even with a mix of different pieces. This works especially well over a sofa or in a long hallway to make a space feel more intentional.

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