I'm an interior designer. I use these 5 cheap tricks to make my clients' living rooms look more expensive.
Mina Lisanin
- I'm an interior designer, and I use affordable tricks to make living rooms look expensive.
- These include incorporating large-scale art and layering lighting to give a room a luxurious feel.
A living room doesn't have to be expensive to look expensive.
As an interior designer, I've found that small, strategic changes can make a big impact for a low cost.
Here are five budget-friendly tricks I use to elevate my clients' living rooms and give them that luxurious feel.
Incorporate large-scale art into your design.
One of the easiest ways to make a living room look more expensive is to hang large-scale artwork.
A bold, oversized piece can create a stunning focal point, making the room feel more sophisticated and grand.
You don't need to invest in original artwork — I've found websites like Etsy and Society6 offer affordable and stylish options for prints.
You can also DIY. For a personalized touch, consider creating your own artwork with a blank canvas and some paint.
Layer your lighting.
Lighting can make or break the atmosphere in a living room.
I recommend using a layered approach with different types of lighting: ambient (ceiling fixtures), task (table lamps), and accent (wall sconces or picture lights).
This combination adds depth and warmth to the room while also highlighting key areas of it. Swapping out dated fixtures or adding dimmer switches can instantly elevate the space.
Use mirrors to add depth to a space.
Mirrors are a fantastic tool for making a room feel larger and brighter.
When strategically placed, they reflect light and create the illusion of more space, giving the room a more open, expensive feel. Placing a mirror above a mantel, behind a sofa, or across from a window can make a dramatic difference.
Even affordable mirrors from home-goods stores can have a high-end impact.
Adding texture is an easy way to make a room feel rich and layered.
To add visual interest to a space, mix different fabrics and materials, such as velvet pillows, chunky knit throws, or woven baskets.
A simple way to start is by swapping out the pillows on your sofa. Mixing different textures and patterns can transform the look of the room, making it feel more luxurious and curated.
Plants are an affordable way to breathe life into a living room.
Plants not only add a pop of color but also bring in a natural element that can make the space feel more welcoming and refined.
You don't need to splurge on expensive greenery, either. Even a few well-placed houseplants, like a fiddle-leaf fig or snake plant, can make a big impact.
High-quality faux plants are also a great option for those who prefer less maintenance.
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