9 things that make your home feel more HGTV and less DIY

You know those HGTV homes that somehow feel pulled together, warm, and expensive—but still livable? It’s not magic or a huge budget. The difference usually comes down to details: proportions, finishes, and consistency.

If your house feels more “weekend project” than designer showcase, you don’t need to start from scratch. A few key upgrades and mindset shifts can make your home feel more professionally styled—without losing the personal touch that makes it yours.

Use Fewer Colors, but Use Them Well

HGTV homes rarely mix too many competing tones. Instead, they stick with one main color palette and repeat it through every room. When your walls, textiles, and decor work together, the space feels bigger and more cohesive.

Start by narrowing your palette to three or four complementary shades. Choose one dominant color and two supporting neutrals. When everything flows, even budget furniture starts to feel higher end.

Choose Larger Art Instead of Small Clusters

Nothing says “DIY” faster than a bunch of undersized art scattered across the walls. Designers go for scale—one or two big, well-placed pieces that make an impact.

If your budget’s tight, go for printable art and inexpensive oversized frames. One large canvas above the sofa or bed instantly makes the room feel styled with purpose instead of filled out last minute.

Swap Builder Fixtures for Statement Lighting

Lighting changes everything, and the wrong fixture can make a room feel dated even if everything else is perfect. HGTV homes almost always feature lighting that looks custom and intentional.

You don’t have to spend much. Replacing a basic flush mount with a semi-flush drum light or pendant can elevate the entire space. Focus on warm, diffused light rather than harsh, cool bulbs for a softer designer feel.

Edit Down Your Decor

Clutter is one of the biggest giveaways of a DIY space. Designers use restraint—everything has a reason to be there, and every surface has breathing room.

Try removing half of what’s on your shelves and tables. Keep only what complements your color scheme or adds texture. When your home feels curated instead of crowded, it instantly looks more HGTV than hobby project.

Upgrade Textiles and Layer Them

Even if your furniture is inexpensive, the right fabrics can make your space feel luxe. Think thicker curtains, linen-look pillow covers, and textured throws that add depth.

Mix materials like cotton, woven, and faux leather to create contrast. Stick to neutral tones or subtle patterns to keep it timeless. Layered, high-quality textiles are one of the easiest ways to fake an interior designer’s touch.

Match Your Hardware and Finishes

Inconsistent hardware finishes can make a space feel pieced together. HGTV homes always look seamless because the details match—door handles, faucets, light fixtures, and cabinet pulls all speak the same language.

Pick one finish—like brushed nickel, black, or brass—and stick with it throughout your home. You don’t need to change everything overnight; start with the rooms that get the most use. Consistency makes your home feel unified and well thought out.

Hang Curtains High and Wide

Curtains are often hung too low and too narrow, making windows feel smaller than they are. Designers hang them higher—closer to the ceiling—and wider than the frame to create the illusion of more space.

It’s an inexpensive change with a dramatic payoff. Choose curtain panels that reach the floor, and make sure the rod extends several inches past each side of the window. Suddenly, your living room feels taller, brighter, and far more finished.

Add Texture to Flat Spaces

A room with flat surfaces and uniform finishes feels lifeless. HGTV homes have texture everywhere—woven baskets, natural wood, matte paint, and layered rugs all add visual interest.

If your room feels flat, mix materials intentionally. Add a jute rug, a wood tray, or a ceramic vase. You don’t need to overdo it—one or two tactile pieces per space will make your home feel warm and layered instead of flat and staged.

Hide Everyday Clutter in Style

The difference between lived-in and messy often comes down to storage. Designers use baskets, bins, and closed cabinets to keep daily items tucked away.

Use woven baskets in your entryway, lidded containers for kids’ toys, or trays to organize remotes and keys. These small moves keep your home functional but polished—the kind of effortless organization you’d expect to see on an HGTV reveal day.

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