Do these 5 things to make your house look expensive (ánd chique)!

Who doesn’t love the feeling of walking into a home that exudes elegance, style, and sophistication? The good news is, you don’t need a millionaire’s budget to make your own space feel more expensive. With a few strategic design choices, you can add touches of luxury and sophistication that elevate your home’s aesthetic. Here are five tips to make your house look expensive and chic — without breaking the bank.

On the photo or in the same style: Velvet chair | Floor lamp | Cabinet | Carpet | Painting

1. Choose a Sophisticated Color Palette

The color scheme of your home sets the foundation for the entire space. For a high-end look, consider going for a neutral and cohesive color palette, such as shades of white, beige, grey, and soft taupe. These tones create an elegant canvas that feels calm, timeless, and chic.

Accent with deeper hues like navy, forest green, or charcoal for contrast in furniture and décor pieces. This approach adds a layered and curated feel that screams sophistication. Don’t shy away from bold colors completely, but keep them intentional—like a velvet teal armchair or a deep red painting that grabs attention without overwhelming the space.

On the photo's: Statement piece mirror | Statement piece light fixture

2. Embrace Large Statement Pieces

Rather than cluttering your space with small decorations, opt for fewer but larger, statement-making pieces. Think oversized artwork, a grand mirror, or a chic light fixture. A large piece of art or a striking chandelier can instantly create a focal point and elevate the room’s entire look.

For furniture, go for items with strong silhouettes like a poof, low-profile sofa or a sculptural coffee table. Mixing up textures, like pairing velvet upholstery with a glass coffee table, adds depth and interest. Remember, one quality piece will make a more powerful statement than several smaller items.

On the photo or in the same style: Couch | Rug | Blanket | Cushions | wood side table | Salon table

3. Incorporate High-Quality Textiles and Layers

Nothing says “chic” like the layering of high-quality fabrics and textures throughout your home. Swap out basic cushions and throws for rich materials like linen, velvet, or silk to give your space a more luxurious feel. Add a cozy wool or faux fur throw on your sofa, layer a large area rug under your furniture, or drape lush curtains on your windows to bring in warmth and elegance.

And don’t forget the power of layers! Layering rugs, for instance, can add dimension to a room, making it look more sophisticated. Opt for neutral colors in high-quality fabrics, or add a subtle pattern to keep the look dynamic without overwhelming the room.

On the photo or in the same style: Midcentury modern floor lamp | Coffee table | Painting

4. Invest in Good Lighting

The lighting in your home has a massive impact on the overall ambiance and can make or break your design efforts. For an expensive and chic feel, move away from standard ceiling lights and incorporate multiple sources of light throughout the space. Floor lamps, wall sconces, and table lamps not only add style but create a warm, layered glow that makes any room feel cozy and elegant.

Consider statement lighting pieces such as a stunning pendant light in the dining room or a floor lamp with a unique design in the living area. Warm LED bulbs can create a soft, inviting glow that mimics natural light, elevating the atmosphere of any space.

On the photo or in the same style: Plants | Coffee table | Rug

5. Add Natural Elements and Greenery

To bring a fresh, high-end feel to your home, incorporate natural elements like marble, wood, and greenery. Adding plants, whether real or high-quality faux options, can bring life to any space and make it feel more intentional and designed. Larger plants, like fiddle leaf figs or monstera, make a strong visual impact, while smaller succulents or herbs are great for tabletops and shelves.

You can also incorporate natural materials like a marble-topped table, a wood coffee table, or stone accents that create a sense of organic luxury. These elements break up synthetic surfaces and add a balanced, grounded feel to your rooms.