Have you ever scrolled through Instagram or Pinterest and wondered, “How do these people make their homes look so effortlessly expensive?” I used to think the same thing—until I realized, it’s not always about the price tag. It’s about knowing a few interior styling secrets and using what you already have in a smarter way.

The good news? You don’t need a designer budget to pull this off. You just need a plan, a bit of creativity, and this blog post.

Whether you’re decorating your first apartment, refreshing your family home, or just in the mood to elevate your space, I’ve broken down everything I’ve learned into simple, repeatable steps anyone can do.

Step 1: Clear the Clutter (Like, Seriously)

Let’s be honest—clutter is the enemy of luxury.

You can have the most expensive couch in the world, but if it’s buried under laundry and mail, it loses all its shine. Start by walking through your home with a fresh pair of eyes. Look at what’s sitting on your counters, coffee tables, and open shelves.

What to do:

• Take everything off the surfaces in one room.
  
• Only put back 2–3 things that serve a purpose or spark joy (yes, I just Marie Kondo’d you).
  
• Store the rest, donate what you don’t need, and repeat in the next room.
  

Pro Tip: Use beautiful storage baskets to keep everyday things hidden but close at hand. I swear by this woven seagrass set that looks stylish in any room.

Step 2: Swap Out Basic Lighting

Lighting can instantly make your home look high-end—no renovation required.

I used to have dull overhead lights everywhere until I realized layered lighting is the real magic. Think soft table lamps, elegant sconces, or even a statement chandelier in your dining area.

Try this:

• Replace harsh white bulbs with warm, dimmable ones.
  
• Add a floor lamp next to a reading chair or in a dark hallway corner.
  
• Change out that outdated ceiling light with something modern (and yes, renter-friendly options exist too).
  

My Pick: This gold floor lamp from Amazon looks insanely luxe for under $60—and it made my whole living room glow.

Step 3: Hang Curtains Like a Designer

This tip changed everything for me—and I mean everything.

Most people hang curtains right above the window frame and call it a day. But when you mount the curtain rod closer to the ceiling and extend it wider than your window? It draws the eyes up, adds drama, and creates that custom-home feel.

How to do it:

• Mount rods 6–8 inches above the window frame.
  
• Let the curtains just touch the floor—no floods!
  
• Use neutral linen or velvet panels for that expensive hotel look.
  

Pro Tip: Try curtain clip rings for a polished, easy-to-slide finish. And don’t be afraid of double rods for a sheer + blackout combo. I used these budget-friendly linen panels and still get compliments every time.

Step 4: Use Trays to Curate Your Surfaces

The difference between “random clutter” and “styled decor” is often just a tray.

Trays group your decor together, create balance, and make everyday items look intentional. I now keep one on my coffee table, another on my bathroom counter, and one in the kitchen with oils and salt grinders.

What to include:

• A small vase with fresh or dried flowers
  
• A candle or diffuser
  
• A book or two for height
  
• Maybe a cute object (I have a little marble knot that everyone comments on)
  

DIY Idea: Can’t find a tray you love? Grab a basic wooden one, paint it matte black or gold, and seal it. Boom—designer look for under $10.

Step 5: Layer With Luxe-Looking Textiles

Want your space to instantly look richer? Add layers—soft, cozy, plush layers.

I’m talking velvet pillows, chunky knit throws, linen bedding, and even faux fur rugs. These textures scream luxury, even when they’re totally affordable.

What I do:

• Swap out cheap polyester pillows for velvet or cotton covers (with feather inserts!).
  
• Layer a throw over the arm of your couch or the foot of your bed.
  
• Add a sheepskin rug (real or faux) under a chair or beside the bed.
  

Pro Tip: Stick to a tight color palette—two or three main tones with maybe one accent. This keeps the look clean and cohesive, not chaotic.

Step 6: Create Big Impact With Wall Art

Empty walls make a home feel unfinished. Art fills the space, adds personality, and can totally change a room’s vibe.

Budget-Friendly Tips:

• Print free art from websites like Unsplash or The Met Museum’s digital archives.
  
• Use thrifted frames or IKEA’s budget sets.
  
• Group art in a gallery wall or lean a large canvas casually on a console table.
  

DIY Option: Paint your own abstract piece using just two colors—no talent needed, promise! I made one with paint leftover from a furniture project and now it’s the centerpiece of my hallway.

Step 7: Don’t Skip the Rugs—Go Big

Rugs are essential in pulling a space together. The right one makes even the most basic furniture look intentional.

Size Matters:

• Living room: Your rug should be large enough that at least the front legs of your sofa and chairs sit on it.
  
• Bedroom: It should peek out at least two feet on either side of the bed.
  
• Dining room: Chairs should still be on the rug when pulled out.
  

My Favorite Find: This boho-style rug in my dining room cost under $100 and looks like it came from a boutique.

Step 8: Add Greenery (Even If It’s Faux)

No home feels luxe without a little life—and plants are the easiest way to add it.

Whether it’s a big fiddle leaf fig in the corner, a string of pearls on a shelf, or a tiny succulent by the sink, greenery softens a space and adds that magazine-cover vibe.

Real or Faux?

• If you’re a plant killer (like I used to be), invest in high-quality faux options.
  
• Look for realistic textures and avoid anything shiny.
  
• Mix different heights and pot styles for that layered look.
  

Pro Tip: Don’t forget planters! A plant in a cheap plastic pot won’t elevate your space—try ceramic, jute, or metal for a more luxe effect.

Final Thoughts: It’s All About Intentional Choices

Making your home look expensive doesn’t mean ripping everything out or buying all new stuff. It’s about how you use what you have—and what little changes you make to elevate your space.

From decluttering to layering textures, hanging curtains right to adding personality with art, each of these steps is easy to follow and doesn’t require a huge budget.