By: Bridget Mills, CMP, CSP, Willowtree Interiors, LLC

When it comes to creating a home that feels curated, sophisticated, and effortlessly stylish, there are a few designer secrets that can make all the difference. From selecting the right art to paying attention to details like curtain height and pillow size, small tweaks can instantly elevate the look and feel of your space. Here’s how to make your home look more expensive without spending a fortune.

First, avoid purchasing whole room sets from big box stores. While convenient, they often look cookie cutter and lack personality. A curated space feels intentional, not just assembled, and the difference is immediately noticeable. Instead, focus on carefully chosen pieces that reflect your style.

Art is another key element in making a home feel high-end. Purchase artwork at the right size and scale for your space, and whenever possible, opt for pieces with a floating frame rather than just a canvas. This small change gives your walls a designer touch and immediately makes the room feel more upscale.

The way you hang your curtains can also dramatically impact a space. Ideally, hang them as close to the ceiling as possible and as wide as possible. This approach softens the room, creates a sense of height, and makes a bigger visual impact. Additionally, using rings to hang your curtains and choosing pinch pleat draperies will make them feel more designer. Just remember to measure properly and account for the rings when buying your draperies.

Pillows are not just decorative—they’re a tool to make a statement. Accent pillows should be larger than 18 inches and overstuffed. Bonus points if you use down inserts or high-quality down alternative rather than foam. The right pillows make a room feel layered and luxurious.

When it comes to accessories, less is often more. You don’t need another item from Target or Hobby Lobby unless it is intentional, properly scaled, and thoughtfully chosen to complement your existing décor. Maintaining a consistent color palette is equally important. Planning ahead and referring to photos of your space while shopping ensures your design choices feel cohesive and intentional.

Paint is one of the most budget-friendly ways to transform a room. Choosing the right color can completely change the look and feel of a space, making it feel fresh, polished, and designer-approved. Beyond paint, architectural details like built-ins, trim work, and other elements can make a “builder grade” home feel more interesting and imbued with personality.

Rugs also play a huge role in creating a high-end look. Make sure they are scaled appropriately for the space and positioned correctly—at minimum, the front legs of your furniture should touch the rug in a living area. Correct placement grounds the space and enhances the room’s overall flow.

Doors are often overlooked but painting them a darker color can make a significant impact. You may choose to paint the trim around the doors the same color for a fully cohesive look, but even painting just the doors alone will give your home a more upscale, designer feel.

Lighting sets the mood and ambiance of your home. Using plenty of lamps instead of relying solely on overhead lighting creates a cozier, more inviting atmosphere. Ambient lighting allows each space to feel carefully considered, rather than stark or overly functional.

Greenery and florals can elevate a home instantly, but quality matters. Use only high-quality faux greenery or faux flowers that feel “real touch” whenever possible. While natural options are ideal, well-chosen faux pieces can be very effective if selected with care and attention to detail.

Finally, always consider your floor color and other wood tones in the room when putting together your design. Incorporate these tones into your color palette to create rhythm and harmony throughout the space. Even orangey-toned floors can be toned down when their hues are repeated thoughtfully in other design elements.

By keeping these designer secrets in mind—from art and curtains to pillows, paint, and lighting—you can elevate your home’s aesthetic instantly. Each thoughtful choice adds up, creating a space that feels curated, polished, and effortlessly expensive.