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How to Make your Home Look Expensive
Tip #1: Combine metal and natural wood
Combining natural wood and metal works really well to merge different styles. You cannot go wrong with black metals and natural wood tones. In this space I paired a modern tripod lamp with a vintage-looking chair, I think intended for outdoor use. This contrast establishes a material relationship that can be seen throughout the room. Surprisingly you can find a similar, even better, tripod lamp on Amazon for just under $80!
Tip #2: Use good quality greenery
Many high-end residences have a clear connection to nature these days through large windows, materials, and even plants. Fresh greens can give your space a higher quality by referencing nature. I get seasonal foliage from Trader Joes when I can. Although there's nothing like fresh greens, not all of us have green thumbs. I rounded up good quality greens on Amazon. I highly recommend the eucalyptus, you can get 8 stems for only $13! A large scale plant, like a fiddle leaf tree, can make your room appear larger.
Tip #3: Keep your styling minimal
Most of the walls in my home are white, including the cabinetry. This gives me a blank slate and allows me to easily change up the styling with each season. It's important however, to keep the styling minimal because it can look cluttered and 'too decorated.' If you look at interior design magazines you will notice a removal of 'decor' and allowing spaces to breathe. That allows for rooms to feel minimal and clear.
A built-in in the living room creates an opportunity to style shelves, but that can go wrong pretty quickly. If you have a lot of shelving, stay clear from overloading too many elements. Choose a couple nice elements that are rich in materiality and have good texture. Consider grouping clear glass elements to fill up space without overloading the eye.
Tip #4: Use brass correctly
Brass, or gold, is very in right now. You want to be careful and not overdo it though. It can be easy to get carried away and create a 'theme' by adding brass to everything like hardware, lighting, furniture, and accessories. Choose a couple key moments where you want to bring it to attention. I think a starburst mirror is a good option because it's timeless. It's okay to mix metals too. These Mutuus Studio Candleholders are custom made but you can find a nice brass candle holder set on Amazon for less than $20.
Tip #5: Incorporate a credenza (this one's a must!)
Surprisingly I get this question asked a lot - what is a credenza? A credenza, often called sideboard or buffet, can serve many functions and live in any room. You can use it in your dining room, bedroom, or as a TV console in your living room. They are great for storage too! Many high-end homes style a credenza in the main entry. The featured credenza was handcrafted by myself but you can find some online for as low as $280!
Tip #6: Take your window treatments to the ceiling
White can be an elegant look for your textiles. Tall white curtains can make your space feel larger. Make sure they are hung to the ceiling! This will take you eye up further and create the illusion of a larger room. Make sure your steam them or flat iron them (following your your fabric recommendations).
Tip #7: Play with contrast
You can go in the route of keeping everything clean and neutral or everything dark and moody. But, you can merge the two can create contrast. In this dining room I use light wood candle holders to contrast the (cheap) black round table. This can help you to create a focal point. It's okay to add some drama!
Tip #8: Keep your coffee table minimal
A coffee table is just a small component of your home, but it can be the piece you and your guests interact with the most. You want to make sure its tidy, decluttered, but draws interest. It's a good idea to throw your favorite coffee table book, add texture with a (faux) sheepskin, and a nice candle. TIP: use a neutral or soy candle. Some candles can be overpowering and cause irritation for you guests. You can learn more about styling your coffee table here.
Tip #9: Use the power of a large mirror
A large mirror can take you a long way, especially if you lack daylight or have a small space. In my last apartment, the only source of daylight came from the east balcony. It was important to reflect the light, while making the living area appear larger. Consider using mirrors whether it be a round, or tall floor mirror.
Tip #10: Use large furniture
I have spent endless hours trying to figure out why many architectural homes look so big, even with small square footage. The answer: playing with the scale of furniture. If you look at your favorite interior design photo, chances are you might see an oversized sofa, or extra-long table. Large furniture will make a room feel bigger. If you have the room, try to maximize the size of the furniture you use. Consider using a small dining table and trimming the legs to create a 'large' coffee table. Or use a dresser as a bedside table
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