9 ways to make cheap furniture look high-end

Not everyone has the budget for high-end furniture, but that doesn’t mean your space has to look low-cost. With a few smart tweaks, you can upgrade the look of inexpensive pieces and make them feel intentional and stylish. It’s all about focusing on finishes, details, and how you style them in the room.

Upgrade the Hardware

Most cheap furniture comes with basic knobs or handles. Swapping them out for brass, matte black, or modern pulls instantly elevates the piece.

It’s a small change, but it creates the impression of custom furniture without the price tag.

Add Trim or Molding

Flat-pack furniture often looks boxy. Adding trim, molding, or even overlays to doors and edges gives it a custom-built appearance.

This works especially well on dressers and bookcases, turning plain surfaces into something more upscale.

Use Paint Strategically

A fresh coat of paint in a matte or satin finish hides flaws and makes furniture look higher quality.

Deep colors like navy, charcoal, or earthy green especially give pieces a more expensive vibe.

Swap the Legs

Generic furniture legs often scream “cheap.” Replacing them with tapered wood or metal legs adds sophistication.

This small upgrade makes a huge difference in the overall impression of a piece.

Add Glass or Marble Tops

Placing a glass sheet or faux marble slab on top of furniture instantly upgrades its look.

This trick works well on coffee tables, nightstands, and dressers, giving them a polished finish.

Style With Intention

Even budget furniture looks better when it’s styled thoughtfully. Add books, greenery, and lighting to draw attention away from the piece itself.

When styled well, the furniture becomes part of a bigger design story.

Change Out Cushions or Covers

For budget sofas and chairs, the fabric often looks cheap. Slipcovers or custom cushions in quality fabrics instantly improve the appearance.

It’s a way to get a fresh, elevated look without replacing the entire piece.

Hide Flaws With Texture

Adding a throw blanket, textured pillow, or woven basket nearby can disguise cheaper furniture finishes.

Layering texture helps everything feel more curated and intentional.

Anchor With a Rug

Furniture looks more expensive when paired with a well-sized rug. It anchors the piece and makes the whole setup look styled.

This detail shifts the focus from the furniture itself to the overall space.

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