5 Illusions of Luxury for Your Home

Do you ever find yourself perusing pricy décor? Can you spot something fabulous from a mile away? Does everything you’re drawn to make you fall over in shock when you look at the price tag? Fear not! Fortunately, you can still get a luxurious looking home, even on a tight decorating budget. You just need to know a few simple (and sneaky) tricks.

Luxurious Living On a Budget

1. Freshen Things Up

The most affordable ways to live in luxury is to keep it neat and organized. A space with too much clutter is simply un-chic. Take a walk through each room and purge any items that don’t mesh with your personal style, create a more organized system for toys, school work (if you have children), shoes, etc.

And when you’re looking for a super-quick update, bust out the cleaning rags and give your home a deep cleaning. Once everything is spotless and sparkly, add fresh blooms for a touch of sophistication. Pick up a simple (read: inexpensive) bouquet from the grocery store and spread the cheer by splitting up the flowers by stem type to create several small arrangements around the house.

2. Mind the Details

When it comes to luxury for your home, details are key. Take crown molding for example, it’s a relatively inexpensive upgrade that will make any room appear complete and elegant. There are quite a few widths available, but if you want to make a greater impact, chose the widest trim within your budget.

Tired of your cookie-cutter brushed-steel drawer knobs? New hardware has the ability to transform the look of a home and add personality for minimal cost and effort. Steer clear of simply replacing it with other generic pieces from the home improvement store; for just a few more dollars you can get more unique pieces at places like flea markets and antique shops. This simple fix can majorly transform dressers and cabinets, taking them from blah to ahhh!

Add some more personality by switching out the standard stock shade that came with your lamp for a different option. And toss in a few luxe pillows; they’re not just for comfort, you know. If chosen correctly, throw pillows can create a plush, elegant appearance. Just avoid the standard 12-18 inch throw pillow and opt for something larger to make an impact. Both of these options are fast and easy to do and can transform your room for a whole new look.

3. Paint

A fresh paint job can make a home feel brand new. But, paint color can be one of the toughest decisions to make when decorating a room.

Nothing gives off a more personalized and custom vibe than perfectly hued walls. If luxury for your home is what you’re after, however, stick with classic (classy) neutral colors to exude a feeling of calm and save the bold colors for your accessories or front door. Your neutral base will allow those hotter hues to take center stage. Ready? Push up your sleeves and get your rollers out of storage to paint a look for less.

4. Window Treatments

Many luxurious homes have lofty ceilings and are flooded with natural light. You can fool the eye and get the look by hanging curtains and hardware as close to the ceiling as possible to draw the eye up and give the appearance of a loftier space.

If draperies are just not your style, try woven bamboo shades or wood blinds out for size.

5. Flooring

While wall-to-wall carpeting feels warm and cozy, it simply does not equal the same luxury factor as solid, beautiful hardwood floors. Hardwood flooring provides a classic appearance and even though it’s an investment, it can even be found at an affordable price.

And as a bonus, you’ll not only boost your home’s appearance; you’ll also boost your home’s value. Most buyers are looking for the “wow” factor from a hardwood floor; so, if the time comes for you to sell, you’ll be ahead of the game.

Know When to Splurge

When you have the itch to redecorate your entire house, remember this secret: restraint. Think of these purchases more as an investment rather than a splurge and plan them out ahead of time (do your research and shop around). Choose key pieces such as furniture, rugs or one big, bold piece of artwork that will transition easily with the seasons… and your life.

Luxurious Living for Less

Whatever your budget, you now have a wide variety of ways to spruce up your home and live in luxury. From a simple cleaning job and a splash of flowers to knowing when to splurge (rather, invest), you really can make your home look like those home design magazines you’re drooling over without breaking the bank.