10 design swaps that trick guests into thinking you hired a pro

Interior designers rely on key tricks that make spaces look styled and intentional. You don’t need to hire one to achieve that same effect. By making a few smart swaps, you can elevate your home so it feels curated instead of thrown together.

Oversized Rugs Instead of Small Ones

Small rugs break up a space awkwardly. Large rugs anchor furniture and create flow, which is what designers always aim for.

Choosing a rug that extends under all main furniture instantly makes the room feel polished.

Matching Frames Instead of Random Ones

Scattered, mismatched frames make walls feel cluttered. Matching frames in a consistent finish create a cohesive, gallery-style look.

It’s an easy way to make a wall feel intentional without expensive art.

Statement Lighting Instead of Basics

Flush mounts and builder-grade lights drag down a room. Swapping them for chandeliers, pendants, or sconces makes the space feel styled.

Lighting is one of the first things people notice, and upgrading it mimics professional design instantly.

Layered Bedding Instead of Flat Sheets

Beds with a duvet, throw, and layered pillows look styled. Flat bedding looks unfinished and sparse.

It’s a small swap that makes bedrooms feel designed and inviting without much effort.

Paint Accent Walls Instead of All White

An accent wall in a bold or moody tone creates depth. All-white walls can feel sterile without contrast.

Designers often use accent colors to make rooms feel more sophisticated, and it’s a swap anyone can pull off.

Curtains Hung High Instead of Low

Hanging curtains at ceiling height makes ceilings look taller. Curtains hung just above windows shorten the room visually.

It’s a designer trick that costs nothing extra but makes a huge difference.

Larger Art Instead of Small Pieces

Tiny art scattered on walls makes rooms look cluttered. One large statement piece creates focus and balance.

It’s a designer move that makes a space feel curated without needing multiple purchases.

Neutral Furniture With Colorful Accents

Buying large furniture in bold colors dates a space quickly. Neutral sofas and tables last longer and let you swap accents easily.

Designers often work this way to stretch budgets and keep rooms flexible.

Mirrors Instead of Blank Walls

Adding a mirror expands a room visually while also reflecting light. Empty walls often make rooms feel unfinished.

This trick adds both function and style, giving the impression of thoughtful design.

Coordinated Decor Instead of Random Knickknacks

Scattershot decor looks like clutter. Grouping items by color, material, or theme makes surfaces feel styled.

Even using trays to contain decor gives a professional, cohesive look.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.