Some homes just have that expensive look. You walk in, admire the furniture, notice a few interesting pieces, and immediately assume the owner spent a small fortune decorating. But look closely, and you might discover that the sofa isn’t particularly expensive, the artwork came from a local artist, and that gorgeous side table was picked up at a furniture market.
The difference is often in the details. Not the obvious things like keeping your home tidy or buying nice curtains, but the small decorating decisions that make a space feel more stylish and thoughtfully put together. Here are eight worth trying.
1. Go Bigger With Your Artwork
One large piece of art can make a room look considerably more sophisticated than several small pictures scattered across the walls. It doesn’t have to be an expensive original. A beautiful photograph, an interesting abstract print or artwork from an emerging Nigerian artist can do the job. The trick is getting the scale right. A tiny picture hanging above a large sofa can look rather lost, while an oversized piece immediately creates impact.
2. Stop Buying Matching Furniture Sets
There’s nothing wrong with matching furniture, but buying the sofa, armchairs, centre table and side tables as one complete set can make your living room look like a furniture showroom. Try mixing materials, shapes and even styles. A contemporary sofa beside a vintage wooden chair or a sleek coffee table paired with an interesting antique piece creates a more personal, collected look.
3. Upgrade the Little Things You Touch Every Day
Sometimes, luxury is in the smallest details. Think beautiful soap dispensers instead of plastic bottles, proper hand towels in the guest bathroom, attractive trays for your bedside essentials and lovely drinking glasses. None of these needs to cost a fortune, but together they make everyday spaces feel more considered. Even your tissue box deserves a little dignity.
4. Add Something Old
A home filled entirely with brand-new furniture can sometimes feel a little too perfect. An antique mirror, an old wooden chest, a vintage stool or a beautifully restored chair introduces character. Look around local furniture markets or ask about pieces your family no longer uses. That old side table gathering dust somewhere might be exactly what your living room needs.
5. Pay Attention to Lampshades
Most people focus on buying a beautiful lamp and forget that the shade can make just as much difference. A pleated fabric shade, textured linen or an interesting sculptural shape can make an ordinary lamp look considerably more expensive. It’s also an easy upgrade if you already own lamps that feel a little dated.
6. Try Painting Everything One Colour
Here’s a decorating trick worth knowing. Instead of painting your walls one colour and your skirting boards and doors another, try using the same shade throughout. This technique, known as colour drenching, creates a seamless, sophisticated effect. It works particularly well with warm neutrals, deep greens and rich earthy tones.
7. Give Your Entrance Some Attention
Your entrance doesn’t have to be grand to make an impression. Even a narrow hallway can benefit from a slim console table, a beautiful mirror or an interesting decorative piece. A small bowl for keys or a lovely lamp can make the space feel intentional. It’s the first part of your home guests see, so why leave all the decorating effort for the living room?
8. Spend More on One Thing, Not Everything
You don’t need expensive furniture in every corner. Sometimes, one exceptional piece can make everything around it look better. It could be a beautiful accent chair, an unusual coffee table or a striking piece of art. Let that item take centre stage and keep the surrounding pieces simple. The secret is knowing what deserves attention and what doesn’t.
