Budget

April 20, 2021

65+ Things That Make Regular Rooms Look Luxe

Rich materials, bold art, striking architecture… high-end design has a way of grabbing our attention — and keeping it. So why not channel an opulent spirit in your own home? Though some spaces are blessed with great architectural elements, abundant millwork and natural light, adding the elements listed in this gallery will elevate a home and make a big impact. Here are 65+ budget-friendly ways to bring a luxurious look to your home, from investment buys to smart reno tips. Take your pick to make your home look a little bit richer — and a lot more memorable.

Antiques In Unexpected Spaces

Instead of a built-in primping station in this Charleston bathroom, an antique vanity and chair are right at home. Inexpensive pieces found in thrift shops and antique malls can be given a new coat of paint and upholstery to mimic the airy Scandinavian look of these items.

Photographer: Patrick Biller

Source: House & Home November 2020

Designer: Tommy Smythe & Lindsay Mens Craig, Sarah Richardson Design

Hand-Painted Wall

Help out a local artist by hiring them or create a DIY mural for a one-of-kind effect. This custom, hand-painted mural by Dana Mooney creates dimension, adding color and life to the white walls of this West Coast bedroom. Another benefit: you can handpick the colors you want to incorporate.

Photographer: Janis Nicolay

Source: House & Home November 2020

Designer: Ami McKay, Pure Design Inc.

Polished Silver

Upgrade your home in an hour with a little spit and polish. Sparkling silver reflects the light and makes everything around it look elegant. In this holiday bar, a perfectly polished ice bucket, tongs and martini shakers looks especially festive.

Photographer: Janet Kimber

Source: House & Home November 2020

Designer: Philip Mitchell

Black Mullions

No budget for steel or iron? Mimic the look by painting the mullions black for a DIY steal. Graphic black panes give an instant Brooklyn brownstone vibe.

Photographer: Janis Nicolay

Source: House & Home November 2020

Designer: Ami McKay, Pure Design Inc.

A Well-Dressed Bed

A coverlet, a carefully folded throw, lovely linens and patterned pillows that echo the upholstered headboard all add up to a symphony of calm in this bedroom owned by hotelier Christiane Germain. If you want to get a similarly high-end boutique hotel look, choose white linens and layer in textural touches.

Photographer: Maxime Desbiens

Source: House & Home October 2020

Designer: Jane Charron

Wallpaper Wall

No budget to wallpaper a whole room in your favorite high-end design? This space proves that one wall is all it takes to pack all the necessary impact and elevate a niche.

Photographer: Patrick Biller

Source: House & Home June 2020

Designer: Allison Willson

Oversized Floral Arrangement

Big flower bouquets typically spell big bucks, but not everything has to come up roses. In this country home, a collection of apple tree branches complete with fruit has big-time scale and autumnal charm.

Photographer: Valerie Wilcox

Source: House & Home October 2020

Designer: Allison Willson

Lush Drapes

Skimpy panels can't confer the sense of subtle opulence of ripple fold drapery (if getting your own drapes sewn or DIYing it, use at least 2 1/2 times the width of the window). The result looks rich and polished!

Photographer: Valerie Wilcox

Source: House & Home September 2020

Designer: Nicholas Ancerl & Tara Finlay, Ancerl Studio

Pairs

These antique black and white ginger jars were a real find because they're a pair, which confers added cachet because pairs of objects are harder to find when antiquing, according to Tommy Smythe. The next time you see a matched set, grab them: creating symmetry is a well-loved designer trick to make things look upscale.

Photographer: Patrick Biller

Source: House & Home November 2020

Designer: Tommy Smythe & Lindsay Mens Craig, Sarah Richardson Design

Curated Collection

On open shelving, this collection of tonal pottery is poetic and personal. Don't let displays get overrun by tchotchkes: choose fewer pieces that have space to "breathe" and get extra points for grouping items together visually with a consistent color theme.

Photographer: Patrick Biller

Source: House & Home June 2020

Designer: Allison Willson

Jewel-Toned Sofa

In case you missed it, the hottest hues of the moment are jewel tones, and we're swathing everything from our walls to our furniture in emerald, amethyst and amber.

Photographer: Alex Lukey

Source: House & Home January 2016

Designer: Samantha Farjo

DIY Millwork

Instead of adding a piece of artwork above the bed, try a statement millwork piece behind the headboard instead. Designer Carmeon Hamilton painted a rectangular shape on the wall in Behr's North Woods and attached long and short pieces of wood overtop to make the bed really pop.

Photographer: Kim Thomas

Designer: Carmeon Hamilton

 Vintage Mirror

Ornate, gilded and glamorous all come to mind when we think of the must-have mirrors for 2020. Look for these pieces in antique shops or flea markets — the grander, the better.

Photographer: Joann Pai

Source: House & Home September 2019

Artful Furniture

Take a page from this glam penthouse living room: a Zanotta sofa, leather sling chair and powder coated aluminum stools in blush pink and silver by Hervé Van der Straeten all add softness with their curvaceous shapes, making the space feel anything but cookie-cutter.

Photographer: Virginia Macdonald

Source: House & Home December 2019

Designer: Katherine Newman

Regal Purple

There is something so elegant and luxurious about the color purple — and it's surprisingly soothing in the bedroom. "I always wanted a bedroom wall with patterned fabric or brightly colored paint — not boring beige," says the owner of this cheerful condo, whose wish came true with panels of velvet lavender fabric.

Photographer: Stacey Brandford

Source: House & Home October 2019

Designer: Christine Johnson

Patinated Tub

We love a sleek white bathtub as much as the next person, but when we laid eyes on this elegant Italian-made piece, we knew patinated marble was the new look of luxury in bathroom design. Pair with wooden accents to ground the look.

Photographer: Alex Lukey

Source: House & Home October 2019

Designer: John Baker & Juli Daoust-Baker with Christine Ho Ping Kong and Peter Tan of Studio Junction

Color-Coded Bookshelves

Looking for an easy update with maximum impact? Organize your book spines by color.

Photographer: Alex Lukey

Source: House & Home May 2020

Designer: Daniel Harland, Roundabout Studio

Closet Lighting

It may seem small, but adding integrated lights to a walk-in closet takes it from "meh" to marvellous. Lighting acts as a spotlight to showcase an enviable shoe collection or the latest season's wardrobe must-haves.

Photographer: Valerie Wilcox

Source: House & Home September 2020

Designer: Nicholas Ancerl & Tara Finlay, Ancerl Studio

Swinging Chair

Elevate an empty corner in the bedroom with a hanging bubble chair — perfect for adults and kids alike. "It's a great chair; it's very playful," says homeowner and hotelier Christiane Germain. The see-through material and silver detailing makes it feel modern, not juvenile.

Photographer: Maxime Desbiens

Source: House & Home October 2020

Designer: Jane Charron

Sliding Door

A modern take on the popular barn door is a savvy way to maximize space and style. This custom version was inspired by Moroccan-style sliding doors and adds plenty of privacy for the guest bedroom.

Photographer: Tracey Ayton

Source: House & Home September 2020

Designer: Ben Leavitt, Plaidfox

Curvaceous Mirror

Designer Katherine Newman knows how to turn any corner into a design moment — even a compact vestibule on the 65th floor of Toronto's Shangri-La Residences. An oversized mirror and dramatic branches show off the apartment's high ceilings.

Photographer: Virginia Macdonald

Source: House & Home December 2019

Designer: Katherine Newman

Open Shelving

Display your curated collection of cookware, ceramics and design accessories with clean-lined shelves in a bold black.

Photographer: Larry Arnal

Source: House & Home November 2018

Designer: Lea Legg of Acorn Studio & Angela Bobanovic of Angela Bobanovic Design

H&H editors' favorite summer trends curved furniture

Standout Rug

Think of it as artwork for your floor. This contemporary rug by Caitlin Wilson looks like an antique find, and it pulls the room together, injecting life and personality into the space.

Photographer: Alex Lukey

Source: House & Home April 2019

Designer: Feasby & Bleeks

Picture Lights

The art in this West Coast condo is well curated, but not all of it comes with a hefty price tag (one piece is by the owner's teenage daughter). What makes it feel luxe is the way the art is elevated with beautiful picture lighting, meant to enhance the gallery-like atmosphere. Bonus: it looks gorgeous at night too.

Photographer: Tracey Ayton

Source: House & Home November 2018

Designer: Denisa Nica

Oversized Lighting

Understated pendants and halogen pucks can never hope to pack the punch of a generously scaled fixture. For added impact, think in multiples. In this dramatic dining room, a trio of pendants is balanced by airy glass shades, so they don't appear heavy.

Photographer: Phil Crozier

Source: House & Home June 2018

Designer: Reena Sotropa & Alanna Dunn

Custom Tile

Not every tile has to be real stone to look expensive. In this case, designer Sarah Richardson had three kinds of budget-friendly square tiles from a big-box store, which were cut in half and then installed in a diamond pattern. The resulting pattern looks incredibly fancy in this condo foyer.

Photographer: Stacey Brandford

Source: House & Home February 2013

Designer: Sarah Richardson

Symmetry

There's a sense of order and calmness that comes from using mirroring elements to create a symmetrical balance. Twin benches, consoles and sconces help frame a stunning staircase.

Photographer: Phil Crozier

Source: House & Home June 2018

Designer: Reena Sotropa & Alanna Dunn

Sculptural Chair

Elevate a home office with a chair that doubles as modern art. This sleek version looks anything but workaday, and along with a lavender desk, it is a welcome addition to any room of the house.

Photographer: Alex Lukey

Source: House & Home October 2014

Designer: Katherine Newman

Tape Details

Adding tape — like this Greek key design or grosgrain ribbon — to drapery is a well-loved designer trick. The materials aren't expensive, and it adds a polished look to window treatments.

Photographer: Virginia Macdonald

Source: House & Home April 2011

Designer: Anne Hepfer

Tessa Virtue's favorite things - office

White Walls

There's no denying that the impact of white walls has been used by high-end retailers (and art galleries) for years. It puts the focus on the objects inside, makes rooms seem larger and more curated and doesn't cost more than a few gallons of paint.

Photographer: Stacey Brandford

Source: House & Home March 2014

Designer: Lloyd Ralphs Design

Freestanding Tub

This fixture has dropped in price dramatically in recent years, making them much more accessible. This tub stands head and shoulders above a basic alcove tub, so if there is space, take the plunge. Sculptural tubs will make the bathroom look spa-like and refined.

Photographer: Virginia Macdonald

Source: House & Home August 2014

Designer: Robyn Madeline

Statement Plant

The fiddle leaf fig has been the darling of the design world — and with good reason. The sculptural shape creates major impact — especially when potted in a standout planter — but it's the scale that makes this tree look expensive.

Photographer: Angus Fergusson

Source: House & Home October 2013

Designer: Morgan Michener & Kai Ethier

Fully Tiled Walls

Opting for an entirely tiled wall instead of a traditional backsplash ups the luxe factor in a kitchen — plus, it's practical too.

Photographer: Phil Crozier

Source: House & Home June 2018

Designer: Reena Sotropa & Alanna Dunn

Mirrored Furnishings

Reflective surfaces are a cornerstone of opulent interiors. Mirrored pieces bounce around the light and also appear lighter than air, for a result that looks equally uplifting and posh.

Photographer: Stacey Brandford

Source: House & Home March 2014

Designer: Lloyd Ralphs Design

Channeling

This plush treatment adds plenty of sophisticated comfort to upholstered furnishings, whether it's a restaurant banquette or a headboard.

Photographer: Viriginia Macdonald

Source: House & Home December 2018

Designer: Anne Hepfer

Mouldings

Actual panelling adds depth and character to rooms that may be lacking in architectural distinction. The real thing is pricey (no debate about that), but you can mimic the look with applied mouldings. Once they are painted, it's difficult to distinguish the faux effect from the real thing.

Photographer: Phil Crozier

Source: House & Home June 2018

Designer: Reena Sotropa & Alanna Dunn

Investment Lighting

Adding a designer pendant or chandelier to a kitchen is a foolproof way to increase its style quotient (check out online retailers for markdowns if you're on a budget). Invest in a piece that makes a serious statement, like this glossy Tom Dixon design.

Photographer: Stacey Brandford

Source: House & Home March 2017

Designer: Shirley Meisels

Hotel-Style Bedding

You won't regret investing in good quality, high-thread count sheets and shams. Pure white linens will deliver a suite-like vibe and let you layer on color with accent pillows and throws.

Photographer: Alex Lukey

Source: House & Home February 2015

Designer: Kim Lambert

Monograms

Adding a personal touch to linens is a definite luxe touch, especially in a space that's frequented by guests, like this high-impact powder room. Hand towels aren't just embroidered with an initial, they also match the playful Scalamandré wallpaper.

Photographer: John Gruen

Source: House & Home March 2018

Designer: Garrow Kedigian

A Chaise Longue

A long, elegant chaise instantly connotes languor and luxury. Place one in a principal bedroom, living space or den, then pair it with a small side table to place your cocktail on.

A Showpiece Faucet

A polished gold, warm bronze or modern black faucet will pop in an all-white neutral kitchen — and there are more finish options on the market now than ever before.

Photographer: Virginia Macdonald

Source: House & Home August 2018

Designer: Christine Ralphs

Tactile Grasscloth

Rooms wrapped in grasscloth wallpaper never fail to feel rich and cozy. We particularly love darker tones, like the wallcovering designer Tommy Smythe selected for this handsome den.

Photographer: Michael Graydon

Source: House & Home June 2017

Designer: Tommy Smythe

Gallery-Like Display

An underused niche can become a focal point if you pay careful attention to styling. Compose your display like a curator, and give only your most interesting objects plenty of room to breathe.

Photographer: Alex Lukey

Source: House & Home March 2018

Designer: Lisa Lev

Tall Headboard

Stretching a headboard up towards the ceiling or running it horizontally across a wall are both ways to make the bed a true focal point in a room, and convey a sense of cocooning luxury. This photogenic variation is upholstered in a dreamy print and almost doubles as art.

Photographer: Virginia Macdonald

Source: House & Home August 2017

Designer: Anne Hepfer

Tub-Side Table

Make your bathroom feel like a high-end spa by appointing a pretty accent table — like this exotic inlaid piece — with scented candles, brushes, soaps and a vase of fresh flowers.

Photographer: Donna Griffith

Source: House & Home April 2014

Designer: Kimberley Seldon

Dark & Dramatic Color

Deep shades of paint such as navy, emerald green and graphite are handsome choices for a principal bedroom. Here, Benjamin Moore's Hunter Green makes the room feel particularly luxurious.

Photographer: Adrien Williams

Source: House & Home December 2017

Designer: BlazysGérard

A Shot Of Velvet

Plush and enveloping — especially on chilly nights — velvet seating delivers luxury in spades. It's also a perfect fit with buttery leather upholstery.

Cantilevered Furnishings

Free-floating furniture and shelving can make a room appear larger. There is some labour to affix the pieces safetly to the wall, but the payoff is a sleek, streamlined look that echoes the fixtures found in high-end boutiques and hotels.

Photographer: Virginia Macdonald

Source: House & Home April 2016

Designer: Sally Armstrong

A Little Faux Fur

A synthetic throw infuses soft, sumptuous texture into a principal bedroom or guest room. Keep the rest of your linens simple to balance out the look.

Photographer: Colin Way

Source: House & Home May 2017

Designer: Nam Dang-Mitchell

Les Ensembliers Home

Ginger Jars

Chinoiserie vessels are a decorator classic that combines graphic pattern with artisanal flourishes. Designer Richard Ouellette of Les Ensembliers is a huge fan of ginger jars and notes: "Blue and white china is like a great pair of black pants. You can mix it up and play with it in any space."

Photographer: André Rider

Source: House & Home October 2015

Designer: Les Ensembliers

Old-World Hardware

Nothing elevates big-box cabinetry quite like traditional latches, knobs and pulls. These handmade pieces by venerable British kitchen company deVOL are especially charming.

Source: deVOL

Designer: deVOL

Stylish Tea Service

Whether you splash out on a mod designer tea set — like this cool Tom Dixon collection — or pull out your heirloom silver coffee service, a tray of showpiece vessels makes a refined focal point.

Photographer: Virginia Macdonald

Source: House & Home April 2017

Designer: Klaus and Beatrix Nienkämper

Modern Sculpture

Abstract forms look stunning set on mantels, plinths or tabletops. Head to a local art show, studio tour or gallery to pick up an original piece (and, in turn, support the artist who crafted it).

Super-Sized Art

Large-scale prints make a strong, dynamic impression. Invest in a custom frame and high quality matting for a high-end effect.

Photographer: Virginia Macdonald

Source: House & Home May 2018

Designer: Montana Burnett

Lined Bookshelves

This hack is an easy way to instantly make bookshelves look high end. This classic decorating move brings pattern and texture to a room and doesn't require a huge outlay for fabric or ribbon.

Photographer: Michael Graydon

Source: House & Home April 2016

Designer: Silvana D'Addazio

An Elegant Bar

A fully stocked bar cart is a classic choice, but we especially love the look of a sleek tabletop setup. Corral mixing tools on a tray at one end of a slim console, and group glass decanters at the other end.

Photographer: Angus Fergusson

Source: House & Home December 2017

Designer: Brian Gluckstein

Custom Cutouts

A curving profile on these twin beds perfectly nestles into the space around the window, and doesn't block the light. Custom details always look more expensive, but luckily, handy types can DIY a headboard.

Photographer: Virigina Macdonald

Source: House & Home August 2017

Designer: Anne Hepfer

Statement Stone

No budget for thickly veined quartz throughout your kitchen? You can still make a splash by installing a single slab as an attention-grabbing backsplash.

Ceiling Detail

While adding coffers, faux beams or medallions to your ceilings is an extra expense, these kinds of details never fail to elevate a standard space.

Photographer: Stacey Brandford

Source: House & Home February 2016

Designer: Allison Willson

A Herringbone Floor

A herringbone or chevron pattern underfoot is a timeless choice, whether laid out in light wood or ceramic tile.

Photographer: Michael Graydon

Source: House & Home October 2016

Designer: Brian Gluckstein

Panelled Vent Hood

Clad your ventilation hood in tidy panelling and paint it the same color as your kitchen backsplash for a seamless look.

Photographer: Alex Lukey

Source: House & Home March 2016

Designer: Rachel Fox

Monochrome Done Right

Get inspired by this principal bedroom, where a tonal palette of sophisticated greys gives the space a rich, cocooning appeal.

Photographer: Alex Lukey

Source: House & Home January 2016

Designer: Samantha Farjo

Wooden Shutters

Installing shutters is another upfront investment you won't soon regret. We especially love them in an ensuite bathroom, where they provide privacy and natural light.

Photographer: Donna Griffith

Source: House & Home September 2016

Designer: Margot Bell, Katelyn Hermant and Dasha Ricci

A Textured Backsplash

A simple way to set your subway tile apart from the pack is by selecting slightly irregular, textured tile with a handmade look.

Photographer: Adrien Williams

Source: House & Home October 2016

Designer: BlazysGérard

A Stairway That Isn't An Afterthought

Luxurious details like a custom railing, high quality runner or statement artwork turn a transitional space into a spot to linger.

Photographer: Colin Way

Source: House & Home October 2016

Designer: James McIntyre

High-Gloss Color

A bit of shine brings out the depth of a room's wall and ceiling colors, making the space feel extra special.

Photographer: John Gruen

Source: House & Home March 2018

Designer: Garrow Kedigian

Tufted Seating

Adding a button-tufted banquette to an eat-in dining area is a simple way to inject both comfort and charm into a kitchen.

Photographer: Valerie Wilcox

Source: House & Home April 2018

Designer: Joel Bray

Author: Wendy Jacob & Reiko Milley