How to Make Your Home Feel More Luxurious

As some of you may remember, Bob and I recently bought a lake house. It’s a total dream come true, and this spring, we’ve been getting settled and planning out our remodel. We went with something budget friendly. So, it’s got plenty of opportunities for updating and upgrading. Which isn’t a bad thing—I am in love with the idea of making this Wisconsin waterfront relic into a true Midwestern meets coastal masterpiece.

With all of this work going into our new property, it’s made me really consider what makes a home feel like home. For me, home feels relaxing, luxurious, and personal. And, though it’s our second home, I really want it to reflect who we are and what we’ve built. After all, Style Charade is the whole reason we could make this jump! 

So, I’ve been intentional about adding luxurious touches to our lake home, just like I did with our main property. Budget-friendly and thoughtful luxe items make you feel like a princess in your own castle. There’s nothing more comforting and calming than small personal posh touches around your home. 

In light of this, I’ve created a list of some of my favorite ways to take your home from drab to fab, without completely breaking the bank. Let’s make your home feel totally luxurious!

How to Make Your Home Feel More Luxurious 

Wallpaper

If you’re thinking wallpaper is dated, difficult, and drab, think again! There are so many modern wallpaper options that are totally chic, easy to put on, AND easy to take off. (Especially if you have a husband worried about resale). Lol. 

Adding wallpaper to one wall or even a whole room is one of the quickest ways to elevate your space. The texture and pattern juxtaposed with solid upholstery or thick wood is the ultimate modern design choice for anyone who loves shabby chic or coastal chic decorating. (You know I do!)

You can see one of my favorite wallpaper projects, here. Milton and King has gorgeous prints that you can get as rolls of wallpaper or fabric. This means you can pull a whole room together in a flash with their designer patterns! 

I also love Rifle Paper Co., their wallpaper is in our powder room. (That’s right, wallpaper isn’t just for the living room!). Needless to say, give it a try. It’ll definitely make your home feel upscale and stylish.

Declutter and Organize

We acquire SO much stuff over the years. WhileBob and I don’t even have kids, we STILL find ourselves with clutter pretty often. If there’s anything that doesn’t feel luxurious and homy, it’s clutter and disorganization. 

To reduce your stress and amplify the look of your home, declutter! Do one space at a time, selling, donating, and tossing unwanted items. The process will make the room feel instantly larger and calmer! 

I always recommend starting with the kitchen. Pantries and refrigerators get SO cluttered. Here are my pantry storage solutions to help you get control of your cooking space. No more coming back from the grocery store and having to clean out your fridge and cupboards before putting things away. Let’s make that kitchen feel like a five star restaurant!  

Art

When people think of extravagant homes and places, they think of marble floors, white interiors, and art. A lot of art! Culturally, art marks opulence and sophistication. This is why it’s one of the easiest ways to bring your home to the next level. Plus, it’s something completely personal – adding art amplifies your own style and taste. 

I love artwork from Gray Malin and Jenn Thatcher. You can get anything from cool photography to abstract masterpieces. And, they come at a variety of price points. You can break the bank on a breathtaking one-of-a-kind piece, or you can go with inexpensive, high-quality prints. Either ‌will have the desired effect! 

Lighting

Lighting has a big impact on the feel of your home. Not only the quantity of light, but the light fixtures as well. Upgrading your fixtures and adding new light sources will enhance and brighten your space, making everything feel cleaner and more modern! 

Interior designer Amelia Canham said that lighting and art are the two things you should splurge on when interior decorating. And, naturally, I totally agree! If you’re looking for quality lighting solutions, I highly recommend Hudson Valley Lighting. 

Plants and Flowers

Plants and flowers make your home feel fresh, spirited, and, of course, luxurious! You can find low maintenance plants from a nursery or pick up fresh flowers from a farmers market to bring the outside in. But, don’t forget the pot! The pot is what helps tie the natural elements into your manufactured space. The Julia Berolzheimer collection at Pottery Barn has shabby chic pottery I adore! 

Metallics

Just like fine metal jewelry looks upscale in fashion, metallic highlights look expensive in home decor. This means a little metallic touch of copper, silver, or gold could transform your space from a one-note cube to a completely luxurious suite!

Scent

The scent of your home does more than you think! It can transport you to a peaceful island oasis or to childhood memories of flowery fields. Whatever your favorite scent is, using it around your home can really amplify your space. And, the best part is, this one doesn’t require redecorating! Get a diffuser or a few candles to transform your home instantly. 

Outdoor Furniture

One area we tend to forget about is our outdoor space. Obviously, this is not something we’ve left out of our lake home remodel, but almost any home could use a good outdoor facelift. Adding a serene outdoor area will make your home feel bigger by expanding your living area. And, it’ll tie your home in with the outdoors! 

You can check out one of my favorite outdoor collections, here. It will add some incredible luxe touches to your remodel. (I also love Serene and Lily’s patio furniture.) And, if you’re in need of some inspo, check out my home patio. It’s my happy place! 

Accent Wall

Much like wallpaper, an accent wall just adds a little flavor to your room. This is like interior design 101! And, come on, you all know that I love a good wall! (Lol) You can add an accent wall by painting one wall a vibrant color. Or, you can do it by creating a gallery wall with your favorite photographs or prints. 

Hardware

If you want to make a bathroom or kitchen feel a little more luxurious, switching out the hardware is a great start. It’s probably the least expensive way to upgrade these pricey spaces aside from adding a fresh coat of paint. So, if these expensive rooms are giving you grief, but you’re on a tight budget, just get some new hardware! 

Throw Pillows

Throw pillows add texture, warmth, and personality to a space. They’re like accessories for your rooms! For this reason, they’re a home decor essential that should not be chosen carelessly. You can get fabulous pillow covers for existing pillows, or order new custom ones. Either way, your space will get a big style boost from these classic embellishments!

For some inspo, I have a whole article on buying the best decorative pillows that you can check out! In it, I discuss Arianna Belle’s beautiful throw pillows that you can customize to fit your space. They’re great quality, and they come at a great price too! 

Area Rugs

Area rugs pull spaces together and balance textures. Hard floors can feel cold in more ways than one. But, adding an area rug can warm your room and elevate the style by grounding all the furniture to that one piece. 

Moreover, area rugs are even more helpful if you have a large, open concept home. It’ll create natural, purposeful islands that look almost sculptural with beauty! Pick up a rug at Caitlin Wilson or Serena and Lily—you won’t be disappointed in how these change the feel of your home! 

Bathroom Update

Have you all seen my powder room redesign? I am STILL in love with it. My only regret is not doing it sooner. Seriously, bathroom remodels are the best home improvements you can make to transform your home into a luxurious abode! It’s a place to feel pampered, and a beautiful design will make you feel like you’re in a home spa!

Window Treatments

Never skip the window treatments! They make your home feel larger and balance the smooth texture of the walls. They frame your room and knit all the pieces together. But, you have to have the right treatments hung at the right height. I recommend The Shade Store for all things curtains and blinds! 

Layer Textiles

Like you’ve learned from my fashion articles, layers of textiles add visual interest. Fabrics varying in weight, pattern, and texture elevate a room instantly. Plus, they give the home a lived-in feel, but in the best possible way! 

You can layer these by putting differing weights of blankets and pillows on an upholstered piece of furniture, or even by layering rugs! Experiment and find what feels best. I do love Milton and King fabrics, like I mentioned earlier. So, that is a good place to start. But, you can find textiles anywhere! 

High End Details

Much of what we’ve discussed so far are budget friendly ways of achieving that luxurious look. But, sometimes you’ve got to spend a little to get that bold, stylish feel you’re looking for. Find high end statement pieces to add a touch of extravagance to your home. (It’ll definitely make you feel like a princess!) 

If you need some inspiration, browse the Anecdote’s unusual and artistic decor! I have a long list of stuff I’d love to grab from them. Their stuff is super gorgeous, modern, and completely versatile for whatever space you’re designing. 

Color

So, a lot of you probably think of affluent, modern homes that are ALL neutrals. I mean, I’m currently thinking of Kim Kardashian’s ultra-minimalist home. (Have you seen that playroom? Literally, how?) That feels luxury, right? But, color is NOT off limits! 

It’s true, styling with a neutral color is a little easier than managing multi bold shades, but it’s totally worth it. You can really create a timeless look using vibrant color balanced tastefully with neutral tones. If you’re wondering what I mean, take a look at my colorful, shabby dining room! 

Alternative Electronics

Nothing looks more unsightly than a bunch of electrical cords. Ugh! They immediately become the focal point of the room. And, not because they should be! You simply can’t keep your eyes off them. NOT luxurious at all. 

So, to really amplify a space, consider alternative electronics that are disguised as high end items! We love this Samsung Frame TV that literally looks like a piece of art when not in use! Bob and I also opt for charging pads that keep everything tidy AND keep cords out of sight. 

Coffee Table Books

Coffee table books make your home feel like more than a home. It makes it feel like an experience! A beautiful experience you get to have every day. It’s like you’re waking up in a luxury hotel or resort. Plus, they’re the perfect accessory to add to your space!

Moreover, it can’t be just ANY coffee table books. They have to coordinate with the room. In order to help you do this, I have curated a list of coffee table books by color! You can thank me later. 😉 

Closet Redo

I feel like to make a home luxurious, you have to give attention to the spaces that don’t usually get the remodel energy. Like the patio, laundry room, or your closet! Ladies, a closet redo doesn’t just make you feel like a princess, it makes you feel like a QUEEN. 

My own closet remodel gave me so much life! It’s such a perfect way to start my day. It’s inspiring! Mine features floor to ceiling shelving, a chandelier, and color-sorted organization that the Home Edit would envy! When I think luxury, I think of my closet. 

Make your home feel luxurious with inexpensive details or big intentional remodels! 

Making your home feel luxurious isn’t about making your home look expensive. Not at all! It’s about bringing you joy and comfort. So, don’t deny yourself your castle. Pick something on the list, execute it, and see how it makes you feel. Soon enough, you’ll capture your personal style and feel totally at home in your lavishly decorated space.

Which item on the list will you try? Let me know in the comments! I can’t wait to update you all on the Lake House once we’ve got some of the work done. It’ll truly be my shabby chic coastal oasis! Check back on our blog to see the finished design and to check out other fashion and design tips!