Image: Clair Strong Interior Design

We all deserve a little more luxury in our lives. Contrary to popular belief, you can make your home look high-end on a tight budget. Whether you’re completely redecorating or just fancy a few updates, here are the tricks all designers use to make a home look luxe:

Emphasise Architectural Features

Architectural details always give off an opulent feel. Emphasise your home’s best features with paint. Whether it’s the doors, fireplace, ceiling or window frames, try a rich colour (like deep green or inky blue) to really make them stand out.

If your home has no original features, fake them! You can add your own crown moulding, ceiling roses and panelled walls.

Hang Your Curtains High

Hang your curtains as close to the ceiling as possible (instead of just above the frame) and let them drape to the floor. This gives the impression of high ceilings. And all that beautiful fabric implies affluence.

Oversized and Overstuffed Cushions

This is another outrageously simply trick. Instead of displaying cushions in the standard 18” size, opt for bigger cushion covers (about 22”) and overstuff them. Not only are they more comfortable to relax on, they look more luxe too.

One Statement Piece of Art

One large piece of artwork gives off a much more sumptuous vibe than lots of little pieces (especially if they’re in cheap frames).

Whether you invest in something by your favourite artist or create a piece yourself, make it the focal point of the room. Have it professionally framed and make sure you hang it properly (here’s a guide to hanging it like a pro)

Bespoke Looking Hardware

Give your standard IKEA furniture a unique update with new hardware.

Buying and fitting new drawer/door handles is cheap and easy but gives your furniture a high-end look. Opt for on trend metals like copper and brass or an unexpected material like leather.