Are you looking to elevate the look of your living room without breaking the bank? You’ve come to the right place! In this article, we will explore nine high style designs that will make your living room look expensive, all while staying within your budget.
One of the most important steps in creating an expensive-looking living room is incorporating elements that give off a designer vibe. Whether it’s through carefully chosen furniture pieces or curated artwork, these small details can make a big difference in the overall aesthetic. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different styles to create a unique and interesting look.
When it comes to color schemes, opting for warm and rich tones can instantly add a touch of elegance to your space. Think deep burgundy, navy blue, or emerald green. These colors not only create a sense of warmth and coziness, but they also draw attention and make a statement.
Architectural elements can also play a significant role in making your living room look expensive. If your space has great windows, for example, let natural light be the star and keep window treatments minimal. Additionally, incorporating a statement piece like a chandelier can instantly elevate the overall look and feel of the room.
Expert advice: Though expensive, high-end furniture items are always a tempting option, there are plenty of affordable alternatives available. Look for pieces that are well styled and carefully curated to give you that high-end designer look without the hefty price tag.
One of the key secrets to making a living room look expensive is paying attention to the small styling details. By choosing the right side tables, throw pillows, and accessories, you can create a well-matched and cohesive look that exudes luxury. Don’t be afraid to play around with textures, patterns, and colors to add depth and interest to your space.
Another trick to creating an expensive-looking living room is to incorporate natural elements. Whether it’s by bringing in plants or showcasing natural materials like wood and stone, these elements add a sense of warmth and style to any space.
Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of a thoughtfully arranged gallery wall. By displaying a collection of photos, artwork, and other objects, you can create a focal point that immediately catches the eye. Mix and match frames, sizes, and styles for an interesting and unique gallery wall that adds personality to your living room.
So, if you’ve always thought that making your living room look expensive was out of reach, think again! By following these tips and incorporating some high style designs, you can create a space that looks and feels luxurious, all without breaking the bank.
How can I make my living room look expensive
Creating a high-end, elegant look for your living room doesn’t always have to come with a high price tag. By making thoughtful decisions in your design and styling choices, you can achieve a luxurious aesthetic without breaking the bank.
1. Start with a well-styled color scheme
One of the key elements in creating an expensive-looking living room is the color scheme. Opt for neutral tones such as cream, beige, or gray as your base colors, and then add pops of color with accessories like throw pillows or artwork. This will give your space a cohesive and sophisticated vibe.
2. Use natural light to your advantage
When it comes to creating an expensive look, natural light is your best friend. Make sure to use curtains or blinds that let in plenty of light during the day, and keep your windows clean and unobstructed. Natural light not only brightens up the space but also adds depth and warmth.
3. Incorporate architectural elements
Add architectural details to your living room to give it a high-end feel. This can be achieved through molding, wainscoting, or even adding a decorative ceiling medallion. These elements will add visual interest and elevate the overall look of the room.
4. Choose furniture with clean lines
When selecting furniture for your living room, opt for pieces with clean lines and minimalistic designs. This will give the space a modern and sleek look, which is often associated with expensive interior design. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different furniture styles to create an interesting and unique atmosphere.
5. Add a statement light fixture
A beautiful chandelier or pendant light can instantly make a space look more luxurious. Choose a fixture that matches the overall style of your living room and hangs at an appropriate height. This will not only serve as a functional light source but also as a stunning focal point.
6. Incorporate interesting patterns and textures
To create visual interest and depth in your living room, incorporate interesting patterns and textures throughout the space. This can be done through throw pillows, rugs, or even wallpaper. Mixing different textures, such as velvet and silk, will add a luxurious touch.
7. Style with accessories
The right accessories can make or break the expensive look of your living room. Choose carefully curated pieces that match the overall style and color scheme of the space. Items like decorative trays, vases, and artwork can elevate the aesthetic without breaking the bank.
8. Don’t overlook the power of a well-placed coffee table
A coffee table can serve as both a functional and stylish piece in your living room. Look for a table that matches the overall style and scale of the room. Style it with books, candles, or a decorative tray to create a curated and expensive look.
9. Match your textiles
To create a cohesive and expensive look, make sure to match your textiles throughout the room. This includes curtains, rugs, pillows, and even upholstery. Consistency in texture and color will give the space a polished and put-together feel.
In conclusion, creating an expensive-looking living room is all about thoughtful design choices and careful styling. By incorporating these tips into your space, you can achieve a high-end aesthetic without breaking the bank.
1 Add paneling to your walls
If you want to give your living room a high-end and elegant look, adding paneling to your walls is a great way to achieve it. Paneling has the ability to draw attention and create interesting patterns throughout the room. It can give your walls depth and texture, making them look more expensive and stylish.
There are different types of paneling available, whether you’ve been looking for something more architectural or something that will help create warmth and coziness in your home. Opting for paneling with interesting patterns and colors can add a touch of sophistication to your living room.
One way to style your living room with paneling is by creating a feature wall. By choosing one wall and covering it with paneling, you can make it the focal point of the room. This can be done by placing your favorite artwork, a stylish mirror, or an elegant chandelier on that wall.
Another option is to incorporate paneling into your entire living room. This can be done by paneling all four walls or opting for wainscoting, which covers only the bottom half of the walls. This will give your room a more curated and elegant look.
When styling your living room with paneling, it’s important to mix and match different elements. For example, you can mix the paneling with different wall colors or wallpapers to create a more unique and customized look. Mixing different textures and patterns will also give your living room a more designer and expensive feel.
Paneling can also help create a more cozy and warm atmosphere in your living room. It can help to insulate the room and create a feeling of comfort and relaxation. By opting for wooden paneling, you can bring a natural and organic element into your living room.
Adding paneling to your walls doesn’t have to come with an expensive price tag. There are affordable options available that can give your living room a high-end look without breaking the bank. So don’t be afraid to take the first step and transform your living room into a styled and expensive-looking space.
When it comes to incorporating paneling into your living room, think about the different ways it can be used. From creating a gallery wall to framing windows, there are endless possibilities for incorporating paneling into your living room design. So go ahead and explore the many options available and give your living room a high-style look.
2 Focus on balance in your design
When it comes to creating an expensive and high-style look in your living room, balance is key. A skilled designer knows that a well-balanced room can make all the difference in how luxurious and elegant it feels.
One way to achieve balance is by incorporating different types of furniture and decor into your space. For example, if you have a large and luxurious sofa as the centerpiece of your living room, you can balance it out with a smaller side table and a matching armchair on the opposite side. This will create a sense of symmetry and harmony in your design.
You can also elevate the look of your living room by using color and mixing different colors in your design scheme. Consider opting for a curated color palette that includes rich and warm tones like deep blues, elegant grays, and muted golds. By using these colors throughout your space, you can create a cohesive and visually appealing look.
Another great way to create balance in your living room is by incorporating interesting architectural features like large windows or a stunning chandelier. These features not only add visual interest but also draw the eye and create a focal point in the room.
When it comes to styling your living room, don’t be afraid to mix and match different patterns and textures. Combining different fabrics, such as velvet and silk, can add depth and create a more luxurious look. Additionally, adding a carefully curated gallery wall of artwork or photographs can bring a sense of personality and warmth to the space.
One of the most important tips for creating an expensive look on a budget is to pay attention to the details. Incorporate small, high-end accessories like decorative trays, unique vases, and plush throw pillows to add a touch of luxury to your living room.
Lastly, don’t forget to let natural light into your space. Natural light has the ability to transform a room and make it feel larger and more inviting. If privacy is a concern, you can opt for sheer curtains or blinds that let light in while still maintaining some level of privacy.
By focusing on balance in your design and incorporating these tips, you can create a living room that looks expensive and high-style without breaking the bank.
3 Add oversized artwork or a gallery wall
If you want to make your living room look expensive, adding oversized artwork or creating a gallery wall can instantly elevate the space. These design tricks can make your room feel more high-end and curated, even if you’re on a budget.
When it comes to oversized artwork, opt for pieces that feature bold colors, interesting patterns, or architectural elements. This will draw attention and make a statement in your living room. You can also mix and match different types of artwork, whether it’s abstract paintings, photography, or even sculptures. Don’t be afraid to incorporate pieces that may not typically go together – the key is to create a curated and unique look.
Creating a gallery wall is another affordable way to add visual interest and style to your living room. Start by choosing a wall where you want to feature your gallery. Then, gather a collection of frames in different sizes and styles. You can mix frames that are black, white, or metallic for a more cohesive look. Decide on a layout for your gallery and start hanging your artwork, making sure to leave enough space between each piece.
If you’re looking for more guidance, there are plenty of resources available online to help you with the process of creating a gallery wall. You can find step-by-step tutorials and even templates that can guide you through the styling process.
When hanging your artwork or creating a gallery wall, consider the height at which you place the pieces. In general, it’s recommended to hang artwork at eye level, but you can also experiment with different heights for a more dynamic look.
Incorporating oversized artwork or a gallery wall into your living room can give it a high-end and designer feel without the expensive price tag. Whether you opt for a bold and colorful piece or a more subtle and monochromatic one, these elements will help create a focal point in the room and add visual interest throughout.
4 Invest in a marble fireplace
When it comes to creating high-style designs for less, one of the most impactful changes you can make in your living room is to invest in a marble fireplace. Marble is a timeless and elegant material that instantly elevates the look of any space, adding a touch of luxury and sophistication.
According to interior stylist Sara Guinness, opting for a marble fireplace can transform your living room into a stylish and architectural focal point. “Marble fireplaces are not only visually striking, but they also exude a sense of grandeur and expensive taste,” she says.
Adding a marble fireplace to your living room can help create a more elegant and luxurious atmosphere. The natural texture and color of marble draw the eye and make it the centerpiece of the room. Paired with other carefully curated design elements, such as a statement chandelier or a stylish coffee table, a marble fireplace can make your living room feel like a high-end gallery.
Marble fireplaces come in a variety of colors and patterns, allowing you to choose one that best matches your overall design scheme. Whether you prefer a classic white marble or a more unique pattern, there is a type of marble fireplace that will suit your style.
By mixing different elements and creating a beautiful design, you can make your living room feel more expensive and elegant. The light-reflecting properties of marble also help to brighten up the space and make it feel more open and inviting.
While marble fireplaces can be a bit pricier than other options, they are worth the investment. Not only do they add a touch of luxury to your home, but they also provide a source of warmth and coziness during the colder months.
If a full marble fireplace is not within your budget, there are affordable alternatives available. You can opt for a marble surround or a marble mantelpiece, which will still give your living room a high-end look without breaking the bank.
When it comes to creating a high-style living room design, investing in a marble fireplace is an excellent choice. It adds elegance, sophistication, and warmth to your space, instantly making it look more expensive and curated. So, if you’re looking to elevate the look of your living room, a marble fireplace is definitely the next step.
5 Maximize the amount of natural light
One of the easiest and most affordable ways to make your living room look expensive is to maximize the amount of natural light in the space. Natural light has a way of instantly making a room feel larger, brighter, and more elegant. It also helps to showcase the curated gallery of furniture and decor, making them look their best.
According to interior designer Michelle Guinness, incorporating natural light is a key point in creating a high-style living room without breaking the bank. “When you have plenty of natural light in a room, you’ve created a space that instantly looks more expensive,” says Guinness.
There are several ways to incorporate more natural light into your living room. The first step is to make sure that your windows are clean and unobstructed. You can also draw back heavy curtains or opt for sheer curtains that allow more light to come through. If privacy is a concern, consider adding window treatments like blinds or shades that can be easily adjusted to control the amount of light.
Another option is to place mirrors strategically throughout the space. Mirrors not only reflect light, but they also create the illusion of more space. You can hang a large mirror on one wall or create a gallery wall of smaller mirrors to maximize the amount of light bouncing around the room.
In addition to mirrors, you can also use reflective surfaces like glass or metallic finishes to help bounce light around the room. Incorporating a glass coffee table or a metallic chandelier can have a big impact on the overall brightness and ambiance of the space.
Lastly, consider the color scheme of your living room. Lighter colors tend to reflect more light, so opting for a light and neutral color palette can help maximize the natural light in the space. You can also incorporate pops of color or pattern through accessories and textiles to add interest without darkening the room.
By maximizing the amount of natural light in your living room, you can instantly create a bright and elegant space that looks far more expensive than its actual price tag. Whether you’ve been blessed with large windows or have limited natural light available, these styling tips will help you make the most of the natural light in your home.
6 Install statement chandeliers
If you want to create a high-end and elegant look in your living room, installing statement chandeliers is a great way to achieve that. Chandeliers are not only functional but also serve as a decorative feature, adding a touch of luxury and sophistication to any space.
When it comes to chandeliers, there are endless options available, ranging from traditional crystal designs to modern and unique styles. You can choose a chandelier that matches the overall color scheme and aesthetic of your living room or opt for something that creates an interesting contrast.
A statement chandelier can be the focal point of the room, drawing attention and creating visual interest. It is always a good idea to incorporate lighting fixtures that can help draw natural light into the space, such as chandeliers with large windows or glass elements.
One of the great things about statement chandeliers is that they are available at various price points, making them affordable for different budgets. Whether you are looking for a high-end designer piece or a more budget-friendly option, there is something out there for everyone.
Statement chandeliers can instantly elevate the look and feel of your living room. They can add a curated and elegant touch, giving your space a more sophisticated and stylish feel. By choosing the right chandelier, you can create a stunning and luxurious focal point that ties the whole room together.
When styling your living room with statement chandeliers, it is important to consider the other elements in the space. Whether you have opted for a classic or modern chandelier, make sure it complements the furniture, colors, and patterns used throughout the room.
If you are looking for a more warm and inviting feel, consider choosing a chandelier with warm-toned metal finishes, such as brass or gold. On the other hand, if you want to create a more contemporary and sleek look, opt for a chandelier with clean lines and a silver or chrome finish.
Remember that the size and placement of your chandelier are also crucial. A large chandelier works well in spacious rooms, while smaller chandeliers can be used to create a more intimate and cozy feeling. Additionally, consider installing your chandelier in a central location or above a specific area, such as the coffee table or dining table, to create a focal point.
Overall, installing statement chandeliers in your living room is a great way to add elegance and sophistication without breaking the bank. With so many options available, you can find the perfect chandelier that complements your style and enhances your space.
7 Don’t forget styling
When it comes to creating an expensive and high-style look for your living room, don’t forget about the power of styling. The way you arrange and incorporate different elements can make a big difference in the overall feel and perceived price of the space.
Interior designer Guinness Maloney says, “Styling is key when it comes to creating a luxurious look on a budget. It’s all about adding the right accessories and finishing touches that give your space that expensive and curated feel.”
Here are some styling tips to help you achieve an expensive look for less:
- Opt for architectural features: Incorporate architectural elements like crown molding, wainscoting, or built-in shelves to add a high-end look to your living room. These features can make a space feel more elegant and expensive without breaking the bank.
- Curate a gallery wall: Create an interesting focal point by hanging a curated gallery wall. Mix and match different types of artwork, photographs, and mirrors to add visual interest to your living room walls. This will make the space feel more personalized and sophisticated.
- Add warmth with lighting: Choose elegant light fixtures, such as a chandelier or table lamps, to elevate the overall look of the room. Lighting plays a significant role in creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere, and opting for fixtures with a high-end design will make the space feel more expensive.
- Mix and match patterns: Don’t be afraid to mix different patterns throughout your living room. Mixing patterns can add visual interest and make a space feel more curated and designer-like. Just make sure to stick to a cohesive color palette to maintain a sense of harmony.
- Create a color story: Choose a color palette and stick to it when selecting furniture, accessories, and textiles for your living room. Having a consistent color story will make the space feel more cohesive and intentional, which adds to the overall expensive look.
- Play with textures: Incorporate different textures, such as velvet, silk, or faux fur, to add a luxurious touch to your living room. Mixing textures will give your space a rich and layered feel, without having to spend a fortune.
- Don’t forget about windows: Dress up your windows with elegant curtains or blinds. Window treatments can instantly elevate the look of a room and make it feel more put-together. Opt for curtains or blinds in a high-quality fabric that adds a touch of luxury to the space.
Remember, creating an expensive look for your living room is all about the details. By incorporating these styling tips, you can transform your space into a high-style design without breaking the bank.
8 Don’t be afraid of color
When it comes to creating an expensive-looking living room, don’t shy away from incorporating color. Many people mistakenly believe that a neutral color scheme is the only way to achieve an elegant and high-end look, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Adding color to your living room can actually make it look more expensive and curated.
Designer Delaney Maloney suggests opting for bold and vibrant colors when choosing furniture or accent pieces. She believes that when done right, a mix of colors can give a space a more elevated and high-style feel. Instead of sticking to just one or two colors, go for a diverse palette that includes rich jewel tones, earthy neutrals, and vibrant hues.
When it comes to incorporating color, there are a few key points to keep in mind. First, always consider the other elements in the room and how they will work with your chosen color scheme. For example, if you have a neutral colored wall, a brightly colored patterned rug can add a pop of color without overwhelming the space. Similarly, if you have a vibrant chandelier, opt for furniture that complements the color without competing with it.
Another step is to place color strategically throughout the room. Whether it’s through throw pillows, curtains, or a statement piece of furniture, think about where certain colors will have the most impact. This could be a side table in a bold color that draws the eye, or a gallery wall with curated artwork that showcases a range of hues.
Designer Emily Guinness suggests that mixing light and dark colors can also help create an expensive look. “If you’ve been looking through home styling advice, you might have seen that an all-white or all-grey room is often recommended,” she says. “However, by adding in darker colors, you can give the space depth and richness.”
When it comes to choosing the right color palette, there are no hard and fast rules. It ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the overall vibe you want to create. However, keep in mind that certain colors tend to evoke a more high-end feeling than others. For example, deep blues, emerald greens, and rich burgundies are often associated with luxury.
Incorporating color into your living room doesn’t have to break the bank either. There are plenty of budget-friendly options available, from affordable accent pillows to thrifted furniture that can be painted and styled to fit your color scheme. The key is to be creative and open-minded when selecting and arranging your pieces.
So don’t be afraid to experiment with color in your living room. By incorporating a diverse palette, strategically placing color, and mixing light and dark elements, you can create an elegant and expensive-looking space without the high price tag.
9 Ensure you don’t compromise comfort for aesthetic
When trying to achieve a high-end look for your living room, it’s important not to overlook the importance of comfort. While you want your space to look expensive and stylish, it should still be a place where you can relax and feel at ease. Here are nine tips to help you strike the perfect balance between comfort and aesthetics:
- Invest in quality furniture: When choosing furniture for your living room, opt for pieces that are not only visually appealing but also comfortable to sit and lounge on. Look for upholstery options that are soft and inviting, like velvet or linen.
- Choose the right colors: Colors can play a significant role in creating a comfortable and luxurious atmosphere. Consider incorporating warm and neutral shades that promote relaxation, such as soft grays, creams, and warm whites.
- Layer textures: Adding different textures throughout your living room can make it feel more inviting and cozy. Consider using plush rugs, textured pillows, and soft throws to create a tactile experience.
- Don’t forget about lighting: Lighting is essential in creating a comfortable ambiance. Incorporate both natural and artificial lighting to add warmth and depth to your space. Consider installing a statement chandelier or using table lamps to create a soft and inviting glow.
- Create seating areas: To enhance comfort, create multiple seating areas throughout your living room. This allows for more intimate conversations and gives the room a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
- Accessorize with interesting pieces: Incorporating unique and eye-catching accessories can elevate the overall style of your living room. Look for statement pieces like a gallery wall, decorative vases, or interesting sculptures that add personality and visual interest.
- Don’t ignore the windows: Proper window treatments can enhance the elegance of your living room. Consider choosing drapes or curtains that are made from luxurious fabrics and hang them high to create an illusion of taller ceilings.
- Blend natural and artificial elements: Bringing in natural elements, such as plants or flowers, can instantly make a room feel more fresh and inviting. Consider incorporating these elements alongside your chosen decorative items and furniture to create a well-balanced space.
- Take inspiration from architectural features: If your living room has any architectural features, such as exposed beams or a fireplace, highlight them. These features often add warmth and character to a space and can be accentuated with careful styling.
By following these tips, you can create a living room that not only looks expensive but also provides a comfortable and inviting space for you and your guests to enjoy.
How can I make my living room look more expensive
1. Opt for high-end furniture
Investing in high-quality, well-crafted furniture is one of the most important steps to make your living room look more expensive. Whether you are looking for a luxurious sofa, a statement coffee table, or elegant dining chairs, choosing pieces with exquisite design and attention to detail can instantly elevate the look of your space.
2. Mix and match different elements
Creating a curated and eclectic look by mixing different styles and materials can give your living room a high-end feel. For example, combining a modern sofa with a vintage side table or a contemporary chandelier with antique-inspired lighting fixtures can add visual interest and sophistication to your space.
3. Use colors strategically
Color can greatly impact the perceived value of a room. Opt for rich, deep hues like navy blue, emerald green, or burgundy to create a sense of luxury and warmth. Don’t be afraid to experiment with bold color combinations, like pairing a vibrant jewel tone with a neutral color scheme, to make your living room look more designer-like.
4. Incorporate interesting textures
Adding different textures throughout your living room can instantly make it feel more expensive. Look for furniture and decor with interesting materials like velvet, marble, brass, or mirrored surfaces. These luxurious textures not only add visual appeal but also give the impression of elegance and opulence.
5. Pay attention to lighting
Proper lighting can make a big difference in the ambiance and perceived value of your living room. Consider adding a statement chandelier or pendant light as a focal point. Additionally, strategically placed floor or table lamps can create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Incorporate natural light by maximizing the use of windows and opting for lightweight curtains or blinds that let in plenty of daylight.
6. Pay attention to the small details
Great design is in the details. Pay attention to the small details like carefully selecting accessories, artwork, and decorative objects that complement your overall design scheme. An artfully arranged gallery wall, a well-styled coffee table, and a thoughtfully curated bookshelf can instantly elevate the look of your living room.
7. Use quality materials
When choosing materials for your living room, opt for high-quality options like solid wood, genuine leather, or natural stone. These materials not only have a more luxurious feel but also age well and can withstand the test of time. Investing in quality materials will give your living room a timeless and upscale look.
8. Don’t overcrowd the space
A common mistake when trying to make a room look expensive is overcrowding it with too much furniture or decor. Instead, opt for a more minimalist approach and carefully select furniture and accessories that have a purpose and add value to the space. This will create a clean and airy feel that exudes sophistication.
9. Seek inspiration from professional designers
If you’re unsure about how to create an expensive look in your living room, seek inspiration from professional designers. Look for interior design magazines, websites, or social media accounts that showcase well-styled rooms. Pay attention to the color schemes, furniture layouts, and decorative elements they use and try to incorporate those ideas into your own space.
How big is a luxury living room
When it comes to luxury living rooms, size does matter. These spaces are typically large and expansive, allowing for grand furniture arrangements, impressive architectural details, and plenty of room to breathe. A luxury living room is often a place where people gather, entertain, and relax, so it needs to be spacious and comfortable.
According to interior designer Guinness Maloney, luxury living rooms are typically around 400 to 800 square feet in size. However, he says that the size of a luxury living room can vary depending on the available space in the home. If you have a smaller home or apartment, you can still create a luxurious feeling by carefully selecting furniture and styling the space in an elegant and sophisticated way.
One way to make a living room feel larger is by opting for an open floor plan. By removing walls and creating an open-concept layout, you can seamlessly merge the living room with the dining area or kitchen, making the space feel even more expansive.
Another important aspect of a luxury living room is the furniture. Choosing high-quality and stylish pieces can instantly elevate the look of the space. Mix different types of furniture, like a plush sofa and sophisticated armchairs, to create an interesting and inviting seating arrangement.
The color scheme is also crucial in creating a luxurious vibe. While neutral colors like beige, gray, and cream are timeless and elegant, don’t be afraid to incorporate pops of color or patterns to add visual interest. Opting for rich jewel tones or vibrant accent colors can create a more dynamic and luxurious atmosphere.
Lighting is another key element in luxury living rooms. A grand chandelier or statement light fixture can become the focal point of the space. Additionally, strategically placing mirrors and using ample natural light can help draw light into the room and make it feel even more spacious and airy.
When it comes to styling a luxury living room, Guinness Maloney advises not to be afraid of mixing different styles and influences. Incorporating both contemporary and traditional elements can create a unique and personalized space.
In conclusion, luxury living rooms are typically large and spacious, allowing for comfortable furniture arrangements and impressive architectural details. The size of a luxury living room can vary, but it’s important to create a feeling of elegance and sophistication through furniture selection, color schemes, lighting, and styling. With the right choices and careful attention to detail, you can create a luxurious living room that looks and feels expensive, without breaking the bank.