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9 Cheap Designer Tricks to Make Your Home Look Expensive

Interior designers have a secret: they use specific tricks to make a home look luxurious without breaking the bank. You don’t need to spend a lot of money to achieve a high-end look in your home. Taking inspiration from luxury hotels can help you create an expensive-looking space on a budget. Here are 9 cheap designer tricks to make your home look like you spent a lot of money, including adding inexpensive ways to decorate and architectural interest in the bedroom.

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Lighting

Lighting is key for achieving a luxury look in your bedroom. A well-lit room can instantly make it feel like a luxury hotel. Try using multiple light sources, such as table lamps and floor lamps, to enhance the flooring and create an opulent atmosphere.

Texture

Adding texture is another great way to make your bedroom look expensive. Incorporating different textures through pillows, throws, and rugs can add depth and dimension to any room. To take it up a notch, consult an interior designer who can suggest the perfect flooring and wallpaper to complement the textures.

Color

Next up is color coordination. Choosing a color palette, especially neutral colors, and sticking with it throughout the entire bedroom can give the illusion of a professionally designed space by an interior designer. This includes flooring, which should also complement the chosen color scheme.

Statement Pieces

Invest in statement pieces that will draw the eye and become conversation starters in your house or bedroom. These could be anything from unique wall art to funky furniture pieces, carefully chosen by an interior designer, to give your space an expensive look.

Declutter

Decluttering your bedroom space can go a long way in making your house feel more luxurious, even on a budget. Get rid of any unnecessary items and focus on displaying only what is truly important or aesthetically pleasing to enhance the overall ambiance of your living space.

Greenery

Adding greenery through plants or flowers can bring life into any space while also giving off an air of sophistication and elegance, making it a great choice for any interior designer looking to enhance the look of a bedroom or house. This can be especially effective when paired with the right flooring.

Linens

Investing in quality bedding for your bedroom and flooring can instantly elevate the entire interior of your house. Pick soft fabrics like linen or silk to give off that luxurious hotel vibe. Make sure your text content reflects the importance of investing in quality bedding and flooring to enhance the overall appearance of your home.

Décor

Incorporating mirrors into your interior décor can help open up small spaces in your house while also adding glamour and sophistication to any room, including the bedroom. Additionally, mirrors can be strategically placed on the flooring to create a visually stunning effect.

Hardware

Paying attention to small details like hardware on cabinets or doorknobs can make all the difference in achieving an expensive-looking interior design for your bedroom without actually spending much budget at all.

Vintage Rugs

The Perfect Addition to Your Home Décor

Vintage rugs are a great way to add some character and warmth to any room in your house. Whether you’re looking for bedroom ideas or researching ways to spruce up your living space, a vintage rug can be the perfect statement piece that ties everything together. Not only are they stylish, but they’re often more affordable than new designer rugs, making them an excellent choice for those on a budget.

One of the best things about vintage rugs is that they come in so many different styles and designs, making them a perfect addition to any bedroom. Whether you’re going for a bohemian look or a more traditional vibe, there are endless ideas to explore. Researching different styles and eras can help you find the perfect vintage rug for your space. And because vintage rugs are often one-of-a-kind or limited edition pieces, you can be sure that your rug will be unique and special.

Pairing a vintage rug with simple duvets and throw pillows can create a high-end look in your bedroom without breaking the budget. By keeping the rest of your house décor understated, you allow the rug to take center stage and really shine in your design. Plus, choosing simpler bedding and accents means you can switch up your bedroom design more easily down the line without having to replace expensive pieces.

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Caring for Vintage Rugs

Of course, once you’ve invested in a beautiful vintage rug, it’s important to take care of it properly. Regular vacuuming is key to maintaining its quality over time and keeping your house looking clean. However, using a robot vacuum specifically designed for use on rugs can help ensure that dirt and debris don’t get ground into the fibers over time, which is an important step in preserving the rug’s look. Consider investing in an electric mop or steam cleaner for occasional deep cleaning sessions, but make sure to stay within your budget.

Designer Statement Lighting

Statement Lighting: Elevate Your Room’s Look

Lighting plays a crucial role in creating an ambiance that sets the mood and tone of your bedroom. Statement lighting is one such design element that can instantly elevate the look of any house. It serves as an eye-catching focal point while adding functionality to your room. Ensure that your text content highlights the importance of statement lighting in bedroom design.

A unique light fixture can serve as a statement piece that reflects your style and personality in any room of the house. Whether you’re looking for bedroom ideas or wanting to spruce up the look of your living area, a chandelier, pendant light, or even a floor lamp with a distinctive design can add character to your space. Not only do they provide ample illumination, but they also create depth and dimension by casting interesting shadows on walls and ceilings.

Task Lighting for Functionality and Design

While statement lighting adds aesthetic value, task lighting is equally important for functionality in every step of the house. Proper task lighting ensures that you have ample light for activities like reading, cooking, or working from home, even in your bedroom. However, it doesn’t mean you have to compromise on design and the overall look of your house.

Task lighting fixtures like table lamps or under-cabinet lights are a great step towards enhancing the ambiance of your bedroom. These come in various styles and designs that complement your overall décor theme, without breaking your budget. You can choose from sleek modern designs to vintage-inspired pieces to create a cohesive look that fits your house perfectly.

Layering Different Types of Lighting

Another designer trick for your bedroom is layering different types of lighting to create ambiance and warmth in your house. Using multiple sources of light creates depth while highlighting different areas of the room. To enhance the look, you can add an image that complements the lighting setup.

For instance, combining ambient overhead lighting with accent lights like table lamps or wall sconces adds dimension while creating a cozy atmosphere in your bedroom. You can also use dimmer switches to adjust the brightness levels according to your design preferences and budget constraints in the house.

Achieving Designer Look without Breaking the Bank

You don’t have to spend a lot on lighting fixtures to achieve high-end looks in your home décor. Many affordable options are available online or at local home décor stores that offer unique designs at reasonable prices. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of elegance to your bedroom or illuminate your house on a budget, there are plenty of options available that can help you achieve the desired image.

One way to decorate your bedroom on a budget is by looking for sales or clearance deals where you can find designer pieces at discounted rates. Another option is to search for DIY projects on HomeTalk that can help you create your own statement lighting using simple materials like rope, twine, or even mason jars. These tips can help you add a touch of style to your house without breaking the bank.

Display Flowers and Plants

Fresh Flowers and Greenery: Instantly Liven Up Your Home

There’s nothing quite like the beauty of fresh flowers and greenery to enhance the design of your house. They can instantly liven up any living space, adding color, texture, and life to your bedroom. Whether you opt for a simple bouquet of flowers or an array of potted plants, displaying these natural elements can help create a layered and textured look in your home. For those who want to capture the beauty of their arrangements, taking an image can be a great way to share their design with others.

There are plenty of options to consider to enhance the look of your bedroom or house design. You might choose bright blooms in bold colors for a vibrant pop of energy, or opt for more muted tones that blend seamlessly with your existing décor. Greenery such as ferns, succulents, or ivy can add depth and dimension to any room, making it a perfect addition to your house design.

The key to designing a beautiful bedroom is to find the right balance between different types of flowers and plants. Too many different colors or textures can quickly become overwhelming, while too few can leave a space feeling sparse. Experiment with different combinations until you find the perfect mix that works for your house. An image of your ideal design can help guide you in creating the perfect ambiance.

Perfecting Window Treatments

Floor-to-Ceiling Curtains: Elevate Your Windows

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Window treatments are a crucial step in enhancing the image of your house. One designer trick to make your windows appear larger and more luxurious is to use floor-to-ceiling curtains. This creates an illusion of height, making your ceilings seem taller than they really are. It also makes the room feel more grandiose and elegant, without breaking your budget.

When choosing curtains for your house, opt for high-quality fabrics that have a nice drape to create a good image. Avoid cheap synthetic materials that can look tacky and unappealing, especially if you are on a budget. Another tip from designers is to choose curtains with a subtle pattern or texture that complements the rest of your décor. Solid colors can work well too, especially if you want to create a minimalist aesthetic. The DIY Mommy has a great video on 7 Curtain Mistakes that can make your home look Awful.

Layering Window Treatments: Add Depth and Designer Luxury

Another step to elevate your house’s window treatments is by layering them with sheer curtains and blackout shades. This adds depth and dimension to your windows, creating a more sophisticated look. Sheer curtains allow natural light to filter into the room while still providing privacy, while blackout shades block out all light for optimal sleep conditions. To get a better image of how to do this, you can refer to Mix & Match Design CO’s guide on layering curtains and shades.

When layering window treatments in your house, the first step is to choose fabrics that complement each other well. For a more interesting look, you might pair a silky sheer curtain with a textured blackout shade in an image you have in mind. Alternatively, you could choose two different types of sheers with varying levels of opacity for added interest in just one step.

Throw Pillow Covers: Instantly Refresh Your Living Room

Swapping out old pillow covers with new ones is one of the easiest ways to refresh the look of your house without breaking the budget. According to Ballard Designs, choose covers in one cohesive color palette that tie the room together nicely. It also notes to choose one simple print, one busy print, and one solid print when combining into a pillow arrangement.

When selecting throw pillow covers for your house, consider their texture as well as their color scheme. Velvet or faux fur covers can add extra coziness during colder months, while linen or cotton covers are perfect for warmer weather. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different textures and patterns for a truly unique look. To get an idea of how the pillows will look in your home, you can use an image search on Pinterest or other sites.

Wallpaper: Add Texture Without Breaking the Bank

Adding texture to the walls of your house can make a big impact on the overall look and image of your home. However, traditional methods like plastering or stucco can be expensive and time-consuming, which may not be within your budget. A more affordable option is to wallpaper a single accent wall instead.

Choose an image of wallpaper with an interesting pattern or texture that complements the existing décor of your house. You might opt for something bold and eye-catching, or something more subtle and understated depending on your personal style. Wallpapering just one wall will create visual interest without overwhelming the look of your house. Check out Julie Khuu’s video on Accent Walls Do’s and Don’ts.

Mirror Walls: Reflect Light and Make Your Room Feel Bigger

Mirrors are an excellent addition to your house as they can enhance the look and image of your home without breaking the budget. One designer trick is to create a mirror wall, which not only reflects light but also gives the illusion of a bigger space.

To create a mirror wall in your house on a budget, check out 65+ Best Wall Mirror Ideas You Need in Your House. Hang several mirrors of varying sizes on one wall to create a stunning image. You might choose mirrors with ornate frames for added interest, or stick with simple frames for a minimalist look. This is also a great way to showcase any artwork you have hanging on that same wall.

Ceiling Treatments: Draw The Eye Upward

Finally, don’t forget about the ceiling as it can greatly enhance the look and image of your house, making the room feel taller and more spacious without breaking your budget.

When choosing colors or patterns for your ceiling treatment, consider how they’ll complement the rest of your décor and the overall look of your house. Bold colors like navy blue or emerald green can add drama and sophistication to the image of your home, while lighter hues like blush pink or pale yellow can create a calming atmosphere. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s cohesive with the rest of your design scheme and fits within your budget.

Furniture with Character

Add Personality to Your Space

Furniture is one of the most important elements when it comes to decorating your house. Buying designer furniture can be expensive, especially if you’re on a budget. One of the key steps is using furniture with character to enhance the image of your house.

Unique Coffee Table: Make a Statement in Your Living Room

A unique coffee table can be a statement piece in your house. Instead of buying a boring coffee table from a big-box store, opt for something that has character and personality within your budget. Look for vintage or antique pieces that have interesting details or use unconventional materials such as wood pallets or metal pipes. You could also DIY your own coffee table by repurposing an old trunk or suitcase, and find image references on Pinterest.

Upgraded Kitchen Cabinets: Fresh Coat of Paint or New Hardware

Kitchen cabinets are often overlooked in house renovation, but they can make a huge impact on the overall image of your kitchen. If you’re on a budget and not ready to replace your cabinets altogether, consider upgrading them with a fresh coat of paint or new hardware. Painting your cabinets white will give them a clean and modern look while adding new hardware such as brushed brass handles will add some elegance and sophistication.

Moldings in Dining Room: Elegant Touch

Adding moldings to your house’s dining room is an easy and budget-friendly way to add an elegant touch. Crown molding adds height and grandeur while wainscoting adds texture and depth. Both options can be completed with the help of HomeTalk’s DIY guides, and you can even find step-by-step image tutorials to guide you through the process.

Investment on Quality Bed: Luxurious Bedroom Feel

Investing in a quality bed is a crucial step towards creating a luxurious bedroom image. It’s a piece of furniture that you should consider even if you’re on a budget. A solid wood bed or one made from other high-quality materials will not only last for years to come but also provide a comfortable and restful sleep, giving your house a touch of elegance.

Paint Refresh for Furniture

Use Bold Paint Colors to Refresh Old Furniture

One of the easiest and most affordable ways to update the look of your house décor is by refreshing old furniture with a new coat of paint. Not only does it give your furniture a new lease on life, but it also adds a pop of color to your space. When choosing a paint color, consider using bold colors that complement your existing furniture and can enhance the image of your house. This budget-friendly option can do wonders for the overall look of your home.

Bold colors like navy blue, emerald green, or even bright yellow can make a statement in any room of your house. They add depth and character to the look of any piece of furniture, whether it’s an old dresser or a side table. Plus, they’re perfect for adding some personality to an otherwise neutral image on a budget.

Paint is an Affordable Way to Update Your Décor

Painting furniture is a budget-friendly way to update your house décor. Instead of purchasing new pieces, you can simply give your old furniture a fresh coat of paint and they’ll look brand new again. This not only saves you money but also reduces waste by repurposing items you already own. If you’re unsure how to get started, check out Grace in My Space for step-by-step instructions and helpful images.

Painting furniture in your house allows you to customize and personalize each piece according to your style preferences. You can choose from various finishes such as matte, glossy or metallic paint depending on the desired look you want.

Choose A Paint Color That Complements Your Existing Furniture

When selecting a paint color for your furniture refresh project, consider choosing one that complements the existing colors in the house. For example, if you have beige walls and brown leather sofas in your living room, painting an accent chair in navy blue or burgundy red can give a new look to the image of the room on a budget.

Moreover, when choosing paint colors for your house, consider your budget and try not to match the exact shade of paint with other elements in the room. Instead, opt for complementary shades that will create interest and make different elements stand out, enhancing the look and image of your home.

Clean The Furniture Thoroughly Before Painting For Best Results

Before applying any paint on the surface of your furniture pieces, be sure to clean them thoroughly first using the steps outlined in Grace in My Space’s article. This ensures that there are no dirt, dust, or grime left on the surface, giving your house a fresh look and creating a smooth image once the paint is applied.

Use a cleaner that is appropriate for the type of material your furniture is made of to make your house look clean and inviting. For example, if you’re painting a wooden chair, use a wood cleaner before painting it to achieve the desired image. If you’re painting a metal table, use a degreaser to remove any oil or grease from the surface.

Maximize Space and Light

Natural light can make a huge difference in the look of any house, especially the living room and kitchen. Not only does it create an inviting image, but it also makes the space feel bigger and more open. If you’re on a budget, maximize the potential of your windows or skylights by keeping them clean and unobstructed. Avoid heavy drapes or curtains that block out natural light, instead opt for shades that allow you to control the amount of light coming in.

To maximize space in your house, use neutral colors on walls and floors. Lighter shades can make a room feel more spacious while darker colors tend to bring walls in closer. Large scale art is another way to create an illusion of space and improve the look of your house without breaking your budget. A single oversized image can be just as impactful as a gallery wall of smaller pieces. When arranging furniture, create a focal point such as a fireplace or artwork to draw the eye away from any awkward angles or small spaces.

In addition to using shades to control natural light, consider adding artificial lighting sources such as lamps or overhead lights to your house on a budget. Layering different types of lighting can add depth and dimensionality to a room while also making it appear larger than it actually is. Don’t forget about accent lighting either – highlighting architectural features such as crown molding or built-in shelving with small spotlights can add visual interest and make your home look more expensive than it actually is. Follow these steps from Reynard Lowell on How to Light a Space.

Creative Ideas for Small Spaces

When working with limited square footage in your house, every inch counts. Get creative with storage solutions that are both functional and stylish – think floating shelves or ottomans with hidden compartments for extra blankets or pillows. Multi-functional furniture pieces like sofa beds or coffee tables with built-in storage are also great options for maximizing space without sacrificing style. If you’re on a budget, consider taking it step by step to achieve the look you want.

By following these step-by-step designer tricks, you can make your house look like you spent a lot of money without actually breaking the budget. Remember: natural light is your friend while also adding depth and dimensionality. With a little creativity and some strategic planning, you can transform your home into a stylish oasis that looks like it was designed by a pro.

Affordable Ways to Elevate Your Home’s Look

Revamping your house on a budget doesn’t have to break the bank. With a few designer tricks, you can transform your living space into a chic and sophisticated haven. Vintage rugs add texture and character to any room, while statement lighting creates a focal point that draws the eye and gives your house a new look. Displaying flowers and plants brings life and color into your home, making it feel vibrant and inviting.

Perfecting window treatments is an important step to elevate your house’s look, even on a budget. Whether you opt for curtains or blinds, choosing the right fabric and color can make all the difference. Furniture with character adds personality and charm to your living space. Look for unique pieces that reflect your personal style.

A fresh coat of paint can refresh old furniture, giving it a new look without having to replace it entirely. Maximize space and light by using mirrors strategically placed throughout your house. This will create an illusion of more space while also reflecting natural light. If you’re on a budget, check out This Old House for DIY tips on painting and decorating your home.

Decorating on a Budget

When decorating your house on a budget, it’s important to get creative with what you have. Rearranging furniture or repurposing items can give them a new look and purpose in your home. You don’t need expensive artwork or accessories to make a statement; sometimes less is more.

Incorporating different textures such as velvet or fur adds depth and dimension to any room in your house. Mixing high-end pieces with affordable finds creates balance in your décor while also saving money within your budget. This step is crucial to achieving a cohesive look.

Remember that small details can make a big impact on the overall look of your house. Adding decorative pillows or throws can instantly transform a plain couch into something cozy and inviting. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles until you find what works best for you.

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