GIVING your home a makeover oftentimes seems like an expensive project – but according to one expert, that doesn't have to be the case.
With a growing number of Britons searching for ways to make their properties look more expensive without breaking the bank, an interior guru revealed how you can turn your home from drab to fab with just a few inexpensive steps.
Sharing her knowledge with The Express, Johanna Constantinou, Brand and Communications Director at Tapi, said: “Many Brits are looking for ways to cut down on their spending without compromising on things that give them joy, and that’s why we pulled together these top tips to make your home look expensive on a minimal budget.
''We hope these provide help and inspiration for anyone looking to vamp up their space without it costing the earth.”
Rearranging furniture
According to the pro, you can instantly make your home look more expensive by simply rearranging the room's layout and rearranging the placement of your furniture.
She added: “Maximising light instantly makes a space seem bigger, so ensure your furniture doesn’t block the light and move any mirrors in your home to face opposite a window.
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“Room layout is key too.
''If your rooms have been laid out the same since you moved in, why don’t you mix it up?
''You could move the positioning of any sofa or chairs, pull your furniture out from your wall, or use any artwork as a focal point.
''This will create a more interesting, expensive looking space without spending a penny.”
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Declutter your home
When it comes to decorating any space, it's easy to go crazy and buy dozens of photo frames, cute little plant pots and other items.
However, what you will soon find is that more often than not it just looks chaotic – and tacky.
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Joanna explained: “One of the biggest changes you can make to your home to make it look more expensive is to get rid of clutter – and this is something you can do for free!
“An opportunity to get rid of all the clutter that is taking over your living room/kitchen/bedroom and strip your rooms back to minimal decor is one of the easiest ways to make your home look more expensive and it’s free.”
Choose minimalist decor
Sharing the tips, the expert noted that expensive homes tend to focus on minimal decor with statement pieces, for instance,a decorated vase or a large piece of artwork – and these don't have to cost a fortune either.
Johanna added that you can use what you already have and get rid of any decorative items that either don’t match the rest of the aesthetic.
Joanna advised: “Utilise houseplants and flowers as these instantly make a home look full of life and bring brightness to the space.
“Another top tip to make a space seem updated and more expensive is to replace any old cushions on your sofa or bed.
''A new cushion won’t set you back much, but it will instantly transform the space.
''Choose neutral colours in linen or velvet fabrics for that luxe look.
''Lighting candles (real or electric!) can also make your space feel richer.”
Go second-hand shopping for new pieces
Most of us associate charity shops with vintage garments and cheap clothes that are not only good for your wallet but also the planet.
However, second-hand shoppers will also know that many of these stores offer a wide range of home decor that's just a fraction of the cost of the high-street twin.
Johanna said: “You’ll be surprised at the treasures you can find, from lampshades to dishware and even lighting that is antique or vintage and elevates the effect of your rooms.
''The best part? It’s sustainable and cheaper than buying brand new.”
Get the flooring right
One of the key elements that's important to get right is finding the perfect flooring.
For those who want to upgrade their flooring but don’t want to fork out a fortune for real wood flooring or pricey stone tiles, they can opt for laminate, vinyl, luxury vinyl tiles or engineered wood.
“These floorings can recreate the look and feel of organic materials but with sturdy backings and scratch-resistance topcoats.
''Herringbone flooring also looks incredibly expensive and comes in cost-effective options such as vinyl and luxury vinyl.
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''Stair runners also give the feel of an expensive and impactful hallway and can be adapted to suit your budget.
''Want another top flooring hack? You can paint over existing laminate flooring in your home.”
Interior Design expert advice
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- Simple ways you can spruce up that lonely corner in your house
- The interior items to avoid that will make your house look cheap and tacky
- Interior designer's top tips on spotting bargain gems for a cheap home transformation
- Expert advice to make your bedroom a relaxing environment for better sleep
- Make your cheap IKEA furniture look classy and expensive like a styling pro
- Interior expert shares best ways to make your home look more expensive
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