10 decorating swaps that look expensive but aren’t
You don’t have to spend a fortune to make your house look high-end. A few smart swaps can elevate the whole space without breaking your budget. These changes focus on visual impact, not price tags—because sometimes it’s less about how much you spend and more about knowing what to replace.
Swapping builder-grade light fixtures
Lighting makes a huge difference, and replacing basic ceiling fixtures with something more eye-catching can instantly raise the look of the whole room. There are plenty of affordable options that feel custom without the designer markup.
Upgrading cabinet hardware
Old or generic knobs and pulls can make your kitchen or bathroom feel dated. Swapping them out for matte black, brushed brass, or textured options gives the space an instant facelift—no renovation required.
Replacing old outlet covers and switches
It’s a small thing, but yellowed or mismatched plates stand out more than you think. Clean, matching covers help walls feel fresh and intentional. It’s one of the cheapest updates you can make, and it really adds polish.
Adding full-length curtains
Hanging curtains high and wide around windows can make ceilings feel taller and rooms feel bigger. Even inexpensive panels look high-end when they’re the right length and hung properly. Avoid short or skinny ones—they almost always look unfinished.
Framing inexpensive art
Prints, posters, or even calendar pages can look like real art when framed well. Skip plastic frames and go for wood or metal options in clean lines. It doesn’t have to be pricey—it just has to be intentional.
Swapping out bath mats and towels
Old, faded towels and mismatched bath mats drag down the whole bathroom. Matching sets in white or neutral tones always look fresher and cleaner. You don’t need to spend on luxury brands—just buy ones that feel thick and hold up well.
Using trays to group decor
Scattered candles, remotes, or perfumes can look messy fast. A simple tray brings everything together and makes it look curated. It works in the kitchen, bathroom, or living room, and you can find stylish ones for next to nothing.
Painting interior doors
Most people stop at the walls, but painting your interior doors a contrasting color—like charcoal, navy, or warm beige—can elevate your space fast. It feels thoughtful and custom, even if it’s only a $30 paint project.
Swapping basic mirrors for framed ones
Bathrooms often come with frameless, builder-grade mirrors that look flat. Replacing them—or even framing them yourself—makes a huge difference. It turns a bland bathroom into something that feels more finished.
Replacing fake plants with real ones
Even a small real plant can make a space feel more alive than plastic greenery. You don’t need a jungle—just a few low-maintenance options like pothos or snake plants can upgrade your shelves, windowsills, or entryway fast.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
