Ways to Make Home Look More Expensive September 8, 2019
DIY
  • Make a Big Statement. Large scale art adds a bit of theater to any room. Single large images, diptychs and triptychs all deliver big impact where-ever they are hung. High-resolution images can be printed at very large scale then cut appropriately and framed in pre-fabricated frames bought at Ikea. Your costs are very low and your decorating impact monumental.
  • Drama is King. Who wouldn’t love to wrap an entire room in expensive wall covering for that over-the-top-look? When budget won’t allow for the whole room, select one wall or one section (the back of a niche, or other architectural detail) and create a splash with the paper there. To expend the high-style look match the paint on the surrounding walls to that of the paper. You’ll be pleased how far the drama will go.
  • Find a Focus. Every room must have a focal point. Fireplaces are decorating gold for just this reason. They focus everything in the room. If you don’t have a fireplace you must create focus or direct attention to something else focus worthy (like a view). A great trick for creating immediate focus is a larger than life mirror, either hung or casually leaned against a wall. Hit up your favorite local retailers for gigantic framed mirrors and invest knowing you’ll get lots of bang for your decorating buck.
  • One High-Style Piece. If your budget prevents you from filling your room with high-style, designer pieces then snag one mind-blowing piece and spin the rest of the room around it. A dramatic cabinet, an unusual antique chair or a super-chic cocktail table can add all the punch needed even if the rest of the room does not carry the same decorating wattage. When this is the case it’s great to dress out the room in similar, neutral colors (tans, taupe and cream are great for this) to heighten the impact of your designer piece. And never pay full retail for that high-style piece. Check out eBay, CraigsList and floor sample sales at your favorite expensive shops. You’ll be amazed at what you can find!