Six Things That Make a Home Look Expensive

Let’s be honest — we all want our homes to look like they popped out of a fancy Pinterest board or a high-end condo showroom, without spending like a crazy rich Asian. But here’s the good news: making your home feel expensive doesn’t have to cost you your next vacation or your bubble tea budget. 🧋✨

Making a Home Look Expensive (When It’s Not)

In fact, it’s often the small details — clever styling, thoughtful placement, and a few strategic upgrades — that give off the “wow” factor. Whether you’re moving into your first BTO or sprucing up your current space, here are six simple, affordable ways to make your home look expensive.

1. Add a Mirror (or Two!)

Mirrors are basically the cheat code to making a space feel bigger, brighter, and yes — more bougie. A well-placed mirror bounces light around, creates the illusion of depth, and adds a touch of glamour without the hefty price tag.

Want to turn up the luxe factor? Go for mirrors with metallic, brass or arched frames for a vintage-modern look. Round mirrors work wonders above consoles, while oversized leaning mirrors make small bedrooms feel twice their size. It’s form, function, and fancy all in one.

Look for: Statement frames, bevelled edges, or antique finishes for that extra “designer” touch. A solid piece can be found on Shopee here.

2. Style a Table Tray Setup

Let’s talk about the humble tray. It may sound basic, but when done right, it can elevate your coffee table, kitchen counter or bedside in a snap. Trays help group items together neatly, making everyday bits like remotes, candles and coasters look curated instead of cluttered.

Create a little “moment” by mixing textures — think a marble tray holding a ceramic vase, a couple of books, a sculptural object, and maybe a small scented candle for ambience. Suddenly, your IKEA table screams boutique hotel.

Look for: Trays made of marble, rattan, wood, or mirrored glass for that high-end appeal.

3. Add Textured Fabrics

Want your sofa to scream “designer”? The secret lies in texture. Luxurious-looking homes often layer different fabrics to add richness and depth — without actually costing a bomb.

Think chunky knits, soft bouclé throws, velvet cushions, or linen drapes. You don’t need to reupholster everything; even a few plush, well-placed cushions or a snuggly blanket can totally transform a space from meh to magnifique.

Look for: Neutral tones like creams, taupes or greys — they create a calm, expensive feel when layered right.

4. Hang Framed Art (Not Posters)

Posters taped to the wall? A big no-no if you’re aiming for “expensive home” vibes. It’s time to upgrade to framed art — and no, it doesn’t have to be a Monet.

Prints, photography, abstract designs, or even framed textiles or travel souvenirs can become wall art when paired with clean, minimal frames. A gallery wall with consistent colour tones can make your HDB look like a private gallery.

Look for: Slim black, gold or wood-toned frames. Bonus points if the art ties in with your room’s palette.

5. Upgrade the Lighting

Lighting is one of the biggest game changers for how a space looks and feels. Ditch the default ceiling lights and create ambience with table lamps, floor lamps, or even pendant lights that double as decorative pieces.

Switching to warm-toned bulbs instantly makes your space feel cozier and more luxurious. Even better? Try smart bulbs to control brightness and mood with your phone. 💡✨

Look for: Sculptural lamp bases, fabric or frosted glass lampshades, and dimmable settings. Statement pendant lights over the dining table = instant interior flex.

6. Add an Aesthetic Scent Diffuser

You know how luxury boutiques or hotels always smell expensive? You can recreate that feeling at home too. A sleek scent diffuser not only makes your space smell divine but also acts as décor if chosen well.

Go for essential oil diffusers in ceramic or matte finishes, or opt for reed diffusers in amber bottles. Scents like sandalwood, bergamot or lavender add a calming, indulgent atmosphere to your home — and that’s priceless.

Look for: Minimalist designs, soft LED lighting, and timer settings so it blends beautifully into your home’s look (and routine). For this, Pristine offers a wide range of scent diffusers here.

Ready to Fake It Till You Make It?

And there you have it — six simple ways to give your home a luxe upgrade without needing a trust fund. Mirrors for space, trays for style, texture for depth, framed art for class, mood lighting for ambience, and scents for sensory pleasure — each one adds a little touch of magic to your home.

At the end of the day, intention and the little details are what make a home look expensive. Pick pieces that reflect your style, place them thoughtfully, and embrace your inner home stylist. You’ve got this. 🛋️🌿

Good luck in your home decorating adventures — may your space be stylish, your wallet stay intact, and your guests forever impressed!

Before I go, I would like to introduce myself. I’m Casey! I’ve always had a passion for interior styling. Hence the reason for creating this blog. You can learn more about me here! Till next time.