How to make your bedroom look rich on $200

Making your bedroom feel high-end doesn’t have to come with a designer price tag. With $200 and a little strategy, you can transform a basic space into something that feels polished, intentional, and pulled together.

The key is focusing on details — the textures, finishes, and lighting choices that make a room look layered and thought-out. Small upgrades in the right places can make a huge difference. Here’s how to make your bedroom look rich without spending more than $200.

Swap to Crisp, Hotel-Style Bedding

High-quality bedding instantly changes how a room feels. Go for solid white or neutral sheets with a high thread count or percale finish — they look clean and luxurious. A fluffy duvet insert with a simple cover gives that plush, hotel feel without the price.

Finish the look by steaming or ironing your bedding once it’s washed. Smooth sheets and a neatly layered bed make your space feel cared for and instantly more expensive.

Upgrade Your Lamps and Bulbs

Lighting can completely change the tone of your bedroom. Replace harsh bulbs with soft, warm-toned LED ones. You can also swap mismatched lamps for a coordinated pair or add matching shades to create symmetry.

Even affordable lamps look high-end if they have the right shape and texture. Think ceramic, linen, or brass finishes — anything that adds weight and contrast. Soft lighting gives that cozy, upscale glow you see in model homes.

Add an Oversized Area Rug

If your floors are bare or your rug is too small, it throws off the balance of the room. A larger area rug — even a budget one — grounds the furniture and makes everything feel more intentional.

Go for a neutral color or subtle pattern that complements your bedding. You can find large rugs for under $100 online, and they make your space feel custom without spending a fortune.

Frame Your Curtains Higher

One of the easiest tricks to make your bedroom feel designer is to hang curtains closer to the ceiling instead of right above the window. It draws the eye up and makes the room look taller and grander.

Opt for longer curtains that puddle slightly at the floor and use wide rods that extend past the window. You can find affordable linen-look panels that instantly make your space feel more finished.

Add Texture with Throw Pillows

A few new throw pillows in rich textures like velvet, linen, or woven cotton can completely change your bed’s look. Mix two or three coordinating colors — one neutral, one pattern, and one solid — to add dimension.

You don’t have to buy all-new inserts either. Reuse your current ones and buy fresh covers to fit your new color palette. It’s one of the fastest ways to refresh your space without spending much.

Update Drawer Pulls and Knobs

Swapping out dated hardware for modern pulls or knobs is an underrated upgrade. It makes old furniture look new again and ties your whole room together.

Matte black, brushed gold, or antique brass finishes all give a polished look. You can easily upgrade every drawer in your dresser and nightstands for under $50 — and it’ll look like custom furniture.

Layer in Artwork or Framed Prints

Bare walls can make even a nice room feel unfinished. Hang one or two large framed pieces above the bed or dresser to anchor the space. You don’t need expensive art — framed prints, photography, or even DIY canvases work.

Keep the colors cohesive with your bedding and rug to make it look intentional. Simple black or gold frames go a long way in making the room look put together.

Bring in a Small Bench or Ottoman

Adding a small bench at the end of your bed makes your room feel instantly upscale. It gives a sense of completion — like the room was professionally designed.

You can find affordable upholstered options online or even thrift one and recover it. Look for neutral fabrics or light wood tones that match your existing decor.

Add Greenery or Dried Stems

A little greenery makes your space feel alive and curated. You don’t need a giant plant — even a small vase of fresh greenery or faux stems adds warmth and visual balance.

Dried pampas grass, eucalyptus, or olive branches are trendy, affordable options that fit almost any style. Stick to one or two arrangements to keep things feeling clean and intentional.

Declutter and Reorganize Surfaces

The easiest way to make a bedroom feel high-end is to remove clutter. Clear off nightstands, hide cords, and keep decor minimal. A few thoughtful pieces like a candle, a stack of books, or a tray go much further than filling every surface.

You don’t have to buy anything for this one — just be intentional. A clean, streamlined space always looks more expensive than one that’s overdecorated.

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