8 Tricks Designers Use to Make Homes Look Pricey

Designers know that looking expensive doesn’t always mean spending a fortune. The secret is in the styling—how you arrange things, what you highlight, and what you avoid. These tricks work in everyday homes and create that elevated, designer-approved look without the budget of a full remodel.

Scale Matters

One of the biggest giveaways of a budget space is furniture that’s too small. Designers always choose pieces that fit the scale of the room.

Instead of cramming in lots of small items, go for fewer but larger ones—like a big sofa or oversized art. It looks more intentional and upscale.

Symmetry Creates Balance

Rooms that look pulled together often use symmetry. Matching lamps, pillows, or chairs instantly create balance.

Designers lean on symmetry to make spaces feel organized and calm. Even if the rest of the room is affordable, symmetry gives it a structured feel.

Layered Textures

Mixing wood, metal, fabric, and stone gives a room dimension. Flat, one-note spaces look cheaper than layered ones.

Adding a leather chair, woven basket, or marble tray are inexpensive ways to create texture. Designers use this layering to mimic high-end builds.

Neutral Backdrops

Designers often start with neutral walls and furniture, then bring in accents through rugs, art, or accessories.

Beiges, whites, and soft grays keep rooms looking expensive, while pops of color can be switched out easily. It’s a trick to keep the space timeless.

Large Rugs Anchor Spaces

Small rugs make rooms feel unfinished. Designers almost always go oversized with rugs to define spaces.

Even budget rugs from Ruggable or Rugs USA can elevate a space if you size up. This simple change makes any living room look more polished.

Minimal Clutter

High-end homes aren’t filled with trinkets. Designers style with intention, leaving negative space so the eye can rest.

Editing down accessories and using larger, intentional pieces makes the space feel elevated. Less clutter almost always reads as more expensive.

Statement Lighting

Designers often choose one lighting fixture to stand out—a chandelier, pendant, or sconce. It sets the tone for the whole room.

Affordable statement lighting is available at places like IKEA or Wayfair. This swap alone can mimic a luxury design.

Consistency in Finishes

Mixing too many finishes feels disorganized. Designers keep metals consistent—choosing one tone for handles, faucets, and fixtures.

Matching finishes makes everything feel cohesive and upscale. It’s a small detail, but it’s one of the tricks that separate budget spaces from ones that look high-end.

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