Keep reading for some amazing budget home decor ideas!
Who doesn’t dream of having a luxurious and expensive-looking home? I know I do! While you might think that achieving such an aesthetic requires an unlimited budget, there are plenty of clever tricks that can instantly add a touch of opulence without breaking the bank. Let’s explore 12 budget home decor ideas to make your home look expensive:
1. Declutter and Organize
The first step to creating an expensive look to your home is to declutter and organize your space. A clean and well-organized home automatically exudes sophistication. Going the extra mile to organize spaces like your fridge, pantry, under cabinets, etc. is a relatively inexpensive way to transform the look of your home.
2. Paint Your Trim
Painted trim highlights your home’s features and draws attention to walls, windows, staircases, and more, which can make your home look more high-end. Cover any dated woodwork with a crisp white color or choose a bold, contrasting color such as a black for a more modern feel.
3. Focus on Lighting
Investing in well-designed and unique lighting fixtures to add warmth to your space is a relatively small thing to update in your home but makes a huge difference. Look on Facebook marketplace for antique chandeliers or browse some of my favorite Amazon light fixtures above (including a REALLY COOL fan-chandelier combo)! Maybe even consider installing dimmer switches for an adjustable ambiance in your home.
4. Add Some Elegant Hardware Upgrades
Upgrade your cabinet knobs, drawer pulls, and door handles with sleek, modern alternatives. This simple change can significantly enhance the overall look of your home.
5. Introduce Decorative Molding
Add decorative molding to your walls and ceilings to create a sense of architectural elegance. These are pretty easy DIY projects that can be done in an afternoon or so! Some of my favorites are crown molding, board and batten, chair rails, and wainscoting. This really makes your house look custom.
6. Create the Illusion of Higher Ceilings
Sky-high ceilings are a major feature in many expensive and custom homes. If physically raising the ceiling height isn’t in your budget (it’s definitely not in mine!), utilize window treatments to create the illusion of a super high ceiling. Hang your curtains close to the ceiling and choose long, flowing curtains to give your home a more expensive feel.
7. Add Some Statement Mirrors
Mirrors are one of my favorite budget home decor hacks! You can find beautiful mirrors like the one above at antique stores, estate sales, Facebook marketplace, or you can just shop my Amazon finds for something quick! Strategically place large mirrors to reflect light and make your space feel more expansive. Ornate mirrors can serve as stunning focal points and give an antique, expensive touch to your home.
8. Make a Statement with Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper
Boldly patterned and colorful walls create a custom feel, but it doesn’t have to bust the budget. Since peel-and-stick wallpaper tends to be more affordable than traditional wallpaper, it makes a great budget home decor update for your house. Try this idea in a small space, such as an entryway, half bath, or laundry room, to keep costs pretty low!
9. Contrast Your Kitchen Island
If you have a kitchen island, consider a tonal contrast to spark some interest in your kitchen! Painting the island a deeper color is a simple and cheap way to customize your kitchen and make it look custom. By limiting it to the island, you can keep costs low.
10. Fake a Custom Built-In Look
If you’re like me and you love the look of built-in shelves but can’t splurge on a custom design, use some bookshelves to create the illusion of floor to ceiling built-ins. This creator used bookcases from IKEA to create this look! Safe to say I’m obsessed.
11. Draw the Eyes Up
Architectual details like molding are a cheap and easy way to make a home look expensive. Turn your ceiling into a focal point with a ceiling medallion. I LOVE this look – it makes me feel like I’m living in an old, expensive home, but it is so cheap to add!
12. DIY Upcycled Furniture
Get creative by crafting your own art pieces or upcycling old furniture with a fresh coat of paint. These unique additions can add a personalized touch of luxury. My home is full of antique finds from Facebook marketplace that I’ve painted or refinished – old furniture makes your house look SO expensive! I love using chalk paint that doesn’t require sanding and priming.
Remember, the key to achieving an expensive-looking home on a budget is attention to detail and a thoughtful approach to design. By incorporating these 12 budget home decor tips, you can transform your space without breaking the bank. Happy decorating!