12 Ways to Fake High-End Looks in Your Home
Updated: Feb. 20, 2023Make your home look more expensive on the cheap. These small touches, smart decisions and simple DIY projects will help you achieve luxury for a lot less.
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Shop at Thrift and Antique Stores
Never judge a store by its logo or storefront because you have no idea what treasures it will hold. You can find real gems at thrift stores. And don’t be afraid of a little hard work, if your initial purchase isn’t exactly what you wanted, be open to repainting, switching out hardware, or changing the fabric. Quality secondhand finds will add a high-end look to your home.
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Make a Good First Impression
Spend Your Money Wisely
Pay attention to detail when buying staple items. Furniture that is made well will give your space a high-end look. And spending money on long-haul items, like a couch, allows you to mix in refurbished thrift items or DIY projects while keeping the look of the room upscale. It’s important to invest in your staple items, but buy budget-friendly items when purchasing throw pillows and other accessories. This combination creates a high-end look that has design longevity without making you go over budget.
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Keep It Clean
Minimalism is your friend when it comes to making your home look high-end. And fortunately buying fewer pieces is cheaper than buying more pieces. Additionally, stacking clutter into neat piles is very effective, and cleanliness is next to fanciness. The most important element when it comes to making a home look attractive and expensive are your intentions with the space, so make it your own and keep it clean!
Check out these clutter-busting strategies for every room.
Hang Up Your Art
Art makes a home feel more personal and intentional, and coordinating/matching frames can make children’s art, postcards and photo booth strips look gallery-worthy. If you find a cheap frame you love, buy as many as you can afford and add/switch out art whenever you’re in the mood. A gallery wall can be a stunning design centerpiece in a living room, bedroom, staircase or hallway. With these simple steps, create a masterpiece look with any combination of framed photos, artwork, heirlooms and other hanging décor. Learn how to create a gallery wall with these simple steps.
Add Classic Wainscoting
Update Your Light Fixtures
If that outdated eyesore overhead makes you cringe, ditch it! Swapping out an old light fixture for a new one instantly updates the ambiance of your space. And before you begin installing new light fixtures, faucets, door handles and cabinet hardware, think hard about your personal style, which material (brass, brushed nickel, stainless steel) best reflects that and which is the most timeless. Then, make each fixture consistent throughout the home.
Try Luxe Paint Treatments
Timeless Trimmings
Subway Tile
Subway tile is beautiful and timeless. And best of all, it gives you a lot of bang for your buck. Subway tile is an affordable option for kitchens and baths, so you can keep costs low and achieve a stunning look. Learn how to master the art of subway tile here!
Fake Built-Ins
If you like the look of built-ins but don’t want to splurge on a custom design, use bookcases to create the appearance of floor-to-ceiling built-ins. The IKEA Billy bookcase is one of the store’s most popular items (you can also opt for a dupe if you’re looking for alternatives). There’s no shortage in creativity when it comes to new ways to use IKEA products. Here are 12 fantastic IKEA hacks that will make you say, “Wow! That’s cool!”
Now go check out these easy DIY upgrades to make a house look expensive.
Photo: Courtesy of IKEA