7 Ways to Make Your Home Look More Expensive

Homes that feel expensive usually share a handful of habits rather than a big budget. These are the ones worth adopting first.

• Hang curtains high and wide — close to the ceiling and beyond the window frame.
• Choose fewer, larger pieces of art over many small frames.
• Size rugs generously so at least the front legs of furniture sit on them.
• Swap builder-grade hardware and switch plates for heavier, matte finishes.
• Use warm, layered lighting instead of a single overhead fixture.
• Introduce at least one natural material — stone, linen, solid timber.
• Clear surfaces and group objects in odd numbers.

The common thread

Each of these is about proportion and restraint. Spending more rarely helps if a room is cluttered or poorly scaled.