How to get the “celebrity house” look without spending $1,000

When you flip through magazines or scroll Instagram, it can feel like celebrity homes are in a league of their own. But most of the polished, high-end look comes down to smart styling choices—not unlimited budgets.

The good news is you can create the same elevated feel in your own home without dropping thousands. By focusing on small, intentional upgrades, you can make your space look like it was styled by a professional designer, all while keeping costs realistic.

Swap Out Lighting Fixtures

Lighting is one of the first things that separates builder-basic homes from high-end ones. Replacing outdated fixtures with modern pendants or sconces instantly changes the mood of a room. You don’t have to buy designer pieces—plenty of affordable retailers sell stylish options under $200 that make a dramatic difference.

Hang Curtains the Right Way

Celebrity homes always use full-length curtains hung high above the window frame. This trick makes ceilings look taller and spaces feel more elegant. Skip short panels and instead invest in affordable long curtains and rods, which you can find for under $100 per room. The way you hang them matters more than the price tag.

Upgrade Hardware Throughout

Old knobs and handles make furniture and cabinets look cheap. Swapping them for sleek, modern pulls or brass hardware elevates the entire room. You can buy packs of handles online for less than $50 and update a whole kitchen or bathroom in an afternoon. This small fix gives you that custom, designer feel without a major renovation.

Use Large-Scale Art

Celebrity homes rarely use small, scattered décor on their walls. Instead, you’ll see oversized artwork or mirrors that make a statement. You don’t need to buy gallery pieces—affordable prints, DIY canvases, or secondhand finds can do the job. Hanging one or two big pieces instead of several small ones makes your home look styled and intentional.

Add Statement Mirrors

Mirrors are a go-to in high-end spaces because they bounce light around and make rooms feel larger. A big floor mirror or a unique wall mirror creates drama without much effort. Stores like HomeGoods and Target sell affordable mirrors that look far more expensive than they are, often under $150. It’s one of the easiest ways to fake a celebrity-level upgrade.

Style with Matching Accessories

In celebrity homes, you’ll notice everything looks coordinated—even small details. You can achieve this by using matching sets of accessories like vases, trays, or baskets. Instead of random décor, stick with a few cohesive colors or finishes. This creates a polished look without the need for expensive designer accents.

Incorporate Plush Textiles

Throw blankets, area rugs, and accent pillows all contribute to the luxury feel. Focus on textures like faux fur, velvet, or woven knits that feel high-end. You don’t have to spend much—swapping out a few covers or layering in a new rug for under $200 can completely shift the vibe of your living space.

Go Big with Greenery

Large plants are a staple in celebrity homes. A tall fiddle-leaf fig or a big snake plant instantly adds presence. Real plants make the biggest impact, but if you don’t have the best track record with greenery, quality faux versions are widely available. A $100 investment in a statement plant can look like you spent triple that.

Keep Surfaces Clutter-Free

Celebrity homes always look styled because surfaces aren’t overloaded with random items. Trays, baskets, and organizers make your essentials look neat while keeping clutter under control. This doesn’t cost much—often $50 or less per room—but it makes a huge difference in how polished your home looks.

Add Layered Lighting

Instead of relying on one overhead fixture, celebrity homes use multiple sources of light. Floor lamps, table lamps, and sconces work together to create warmth and depth. You can build a layered look over time by picking up budget-friendly lamps and adding them strategically. The result feels like a designer-styled space without the expense.

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