What Makes a Home Look Expensive? 7 Tricks Designers Use

A large white house featuring a swimming pool and a spacious deck, surrounded by a serene outdoor setting

Seeing perfectly styled homes on Pinterest can make luxury feel out of reach, like it requires a fortune to achieve. But here is the secret: elegance is not about how much you spend—it is about the details that bring it all together.

In fact, 46% of homeowners in the UK intend to make home enhancements by 2025, with 29% aiming to update their interiors. The secret lies in strategic design choices—smart upgrades, carefully selected textures, and a touch of creativity can completely transform your home.

Whether you are inspired by the chic minimalism of modern interiors or the timeless appeal of classic design we have some tips for you. Ready to create a Pinterest-worthy home without the hefty price tag? Let us explore these designer-approved tips!

Designer Tips to Make Your Home Look Luxurious

Here are the seven designer tips that will make your home look luxurious:

A modern kitchen featuring a white countertop and a wooden island, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere

  • Upgrade Your Lighting for Instant Elegance

Lighting is one of the most important features of a home. To achieve a luxurious look:

  • Swap Out Basic Features: Swap out typical lighting for standout items such as chandeliers, pendant lights, or artistic lamps.
  • Layer Your Lighting: Merge overhead lighting, table lamps, and wall sconces to enhance depth and atmosphere.
  • Use Dimmers: These enable you to adjust the brightness and create the setting, providing the space with an opulent ambience.

Pro Tip: Opt for warm-toned bulbs to achieve a gentle, welcoming light that resembles upscale interiors.

  • Add Luxe Textures with Rugs and Fabrics

Texture plays a crucial role in establishing a warm and refined atmosphere. Incorporate luxurious materials such as:

  • Velvet and Silk: Incorporate these into throw pillows, drapes, or upholstery to introduce a hint of elegance.
  • Oversized Area Rugs: An oversized, premium rug can shape your area and create a more pleasant atmosphere.
  • Neutral or Jewel: Choose classic colors that enhance the overall look.

Small changes like switching to linen bedding or adding a faux fur throw, can make a big difference.

  • Use Mirrors to Amplify Light and Space

Mirrors are a designer’s closest ally in achieving a luxurious appearance.

  • Maximise Light: Arrange mirrors across from windows to bounce natural light and enhance the brightness of rooms.
  • Make Spaces Feel Larger: A mirror placed in the right spot can create the feeling of more space. This makes it perfect for compact spaces.
  • Choose Statement Frames: Elaborate, metallic, or simple frames can serve as decoration while imparting an elegant flair.

In 2024, the wall mirror market in the United Kingdom was assessed at $23.66 million, anticipating a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.3% between 2024 and 2031. This underscores the growing demand for mirrors as functional and decorative elements in homes.

Consider incorporating a large or floor-to-ceiling mirror in your living area or corridor to create a dramatic impact.

  • Declutter and Embrace Minimalism

There’s nothing that conveys luxury quite like a tidy, organised area.

  • Prioritise Quality Over Quantity: Choose a handful of statement items instead of cluttering your area with decorations.
  • Hide Cables and Cords: Utilise cable management solutions to keep electronics neat and hidden.
  • Organise with Style: Stylish baskets, boxes, or trays can help you in organising necessities while maintaining a fashionable appearance in your area.

Clearing out clutter streamlines your lifestyle and lets your thoughtfully selected decor stand out.

  • Paint with Purpose

The right paint can change a room completely. To attain an opulent appearance:

  • Go Neutral: Gentle whites, greiges, and taupes create a timeless and adaptable setting.
  • Create Accent Walls: Utilise bold paint shades, textured wall coverings, or sleek plaster for an elegant flair.

For a sophisticated touch, polished plaster can give your walls an elegant, timeless finish. It provides depth, texture, and a touch of luxury that is difficult to reproduce.

A wall adorned with numerous framed pictures and vibrant plants, creating a lively and artistic atmosphere

  • Incorporate Artwork Like a Pro

Artwork can elevate any space’s appearance, giving it a luxurious feel when carefully selected and showcased.

  • Go Big: Extensive art pieces create a striking impression and serve as central features in your spaces.
  • Curate a Gallery Wall: Mix different frames and art pieces to create a balanced and unique look.
  • Experiment with Mediums: Include canvas artworks, photography, or sculptures to enrich visual appeal.

Use frames with similar finishes for a refined, coordinated look.

  • Layer Your Decor for Depth

Well-designed surfaces can immediately enhance a room’s look.

  • Add Dimension: Include items of different heights, such as piled books, vases, and candle holders, to enhance visual appeal.
  • Organise with Trays: Arrange smaller items like candles, coasters, or trinkets on a decorative tray to achieve a purposeful, tidy appearance.
  • Incorporate Greenery: Potted plants, fresh blooms, or even artificial foliage can enliven a space and create a more dynamic atmosphere.

According to Statista, the home decor sector in the United Kingdom is anticipated to yield revenue of around USD 4.59 billion in 2025, featuring a forecasted yearly growth rate of 1.49% between 2025 and 2029. This expansion demonstrates an increasing focus on deliberate, multi-dimensional design components that enhance interiors and foster a sophisticated and tailored atmosphere.

Layering is a skill, so try different combinations until you discover the perfect harmony for your area.

Conclusion

Transforming your home into a luxurious sanctuary doesn’t require a large budget; it’s all about thoughtful choices and careful attention to detail. You can create a lavish yet inviting atmosphere by improving your lighting, utilising rich textures, and intentionally decluttering.

Imagine the pleasure of entering a home that reflects your unique style and elegance. Whether you enhance your walls with smooth plaster, select the perfect decor, or add personal touches, these simple yet impactful changes can make a significant difference.

Now is the perfect time to bring your vision to life. Start small, stay intentional, and enjoy watching your home evolve into a stylish retreat you will proudly showcase. Ultimately, true luxury lies in the details – you have the inspiration to ensure every detail counts. So, what will your first step be in creating your ideal home?

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