Well-designed homes exude a certain je ne sais quoi - an elusive quality that sets them apart from the rest. Identifying this characteristic might pose a challenge for the average person, as these powerful rules of interior design are often kept under wraps.
Fortunately, we've uncovered some of the secrets that most designers guard closely. Scouring the best home decor stores carefully, there are some easy ways to imbue your home with an expensive appearance. From a quick refresh of the bedding to a flick of a new window dressing, favorite leaders in the realm of interiors share how they give homes an artfully lavish look.
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Window Treatments
According to Eva Bradley and Alicia Cheung at Studio Heimat, "window treatments have the effect of waving a magic wand." Disguising anything unsightly, "you can hide an oddly placed window or make the ceiling height feel better by taking the curtains all the way to the ceiling."
Price: $199
These silk dupioni curtains have an elegant sheen. We love the camel brown variety for their warmth, but they're offered in other wonderful hues like smoky mauve, deep blue, and bright white.
Price: $11.99
Was: $28.99
From New York Fashion week to tablecloths, we're beginning to see lace crop up everywhere. Allowing a little light to shine through, these curtains are perfect for anyone desiring to add a touch of romance.
Price: $88
Nothing says 'luxe' quite like navy velvet. This dramatic curtain style comes in a variety of measurements, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your space.
Color
Nearly all the experts we consulted emphasized the pivotal role of color in creating a luxurious home ambiance. Interior designer Tom Stringer suggests that one of the best ways to infuse drama and opulent detail is with a dark wall color.
Price: $70
This gorgeous brown color invites you to wake up and smell the coffee. Pair with pops of yellow or cream decor for enhanced contrast.
Price: $98.99
According to Tom, "Benjamin Moore’s Hale Navy HC154 in matte finish can read like cashmere wall upholstery."
Price: $70
Personally, I can't get enough of this eggplant purple shade. It feels rich and moody, making it the perfect hue for a bar area or guest bathroom.
Wood Paneling
Wood paneling, often underestimated, holds significant potential. DIY expert James Bryant at Cut My explains, "Adding wooden paneling is a great way to make your home look more expensive. Traditional paneling can add a lot of character to a basic room, providing a cozy Victorian vibe, or try a more modern and chic slat wall." For those with limited space, James recommends, "half-height paneling is perfect for making rooms, entryways, and hallways appear longer than they are."
Price: $93.99
The light color of these shiplap panels lend themselves to a dramatic, floor-to-ceiling approach, without making the space feel dark or cramped.
Price: $65
This peel and stick wallpaper might not be real wood paneling, but it sure looks like it! This is an easy, renter-friendly option to achieve the same luxe look.
Price: $109.99
Was: $139.99
These solid olive wood panels provide a compelling texture. I've never seen anything like them before - in the best way possible.
Bedding
Sometimes it's best to return to basics. When it comes to the bedroom, that’s one of the best bedding sets. Eva and Alicia recommend investing in a nice duvet, euro shams, and throw pillows: “They are the top layer of a bed and can really make it feel elevated,” explains the design duo. Mia Jung, Director of Interiors at Kligerman Architecture & Design elaborates, it’s “the layers and the textures that make the bedroom look rich.”
Price: $209 - $244
Was: $299 - $349
The intricate stitch work on this soft-velvet quilt offers so much visual depth. This is a great option if you want to increase the dimension of a neutral color scheme.
Price: $179
This real sheepskin throw boasts a stunningly subtle ombre. Add a layer of coziness and visual interest by situating it near the foot of your bed.
Price: $229.84 - $338
Was: $297.84 - 438
Brooklinen makes some of our favorite bedding. This luxurious washed linen material is equally suited for warm and cold nights. We’re partial to the olive pinstripe, but this duvet set comes in a wide range of colors and prints.
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