Trying to furnish your space can quickly end up costing thousands, especially if you're looking for high-end pieces. That's why many of us opt for more modest purchases, sticking to hand-me-downs or affordable items from the big-name chains. If you still want that luxurious look, however, there are some simple, cost-effective things you can do to upgrade cheap furniture. Read on for six ways to give your pieces that designer feel without breaking the bank.
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1 | Try adding some trim.
ShutterstockCheap cabinets and drawers tend to be plainer than their expensive counterparts. With that in mind, Jaclyn Eickenhorst, a design expert and creator behind Home-Made High-End, says you should add trim details to elevate things.
"This look can easily be achieved by applying trim pieces or molding to flat surfaces using wood glue or simple brad nails," she shares. "The extra detail draws the eye and adds the type of instant customization you'd expect to see on high-end pieces."
In fact, this is advice Eickenhorst has used herself.
"I’ve created several 'IKEA hack credenzas' adhering to this exact model, and people can never tell they weren’t store bought from a high-end brand," she says.
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2 | Play with scale and proportion.
iStockDesigner pieces also tend to "stand out because of their unique dimensions," Artem Kropovinsky, an interior designer and founder of Arsight, tells Best Life. To bring this trait to your inexpensive furniture, he recommends playing with scale and proportion.
"Think about adding a tall base to elevate a table or perhaps use pillows to change the depth and look of a sofa," Kropovinsky suggests.
3 | Upgrade the upholstery.
iStockMaking changes to the materials that cover your furniture can make a major difference as well, according to Kyle Bazylo, an experienced interior designer and founder of Moving To Winnipeg. He says you can easily upgrade the upholstery of old pieces instead of paying a much higher price for entirely new furniture.
"Investing in quality upholstery or fabric covers can breathe new life into your furniture," Bazylo says. "Choose rich, textured materials like velvet, faux leather, or premium linens. The tactile appeal and luxuriousness of these fabrics can mimic the lavishness found in designer furnishings."
4 | Swap out the hardware.
iStockIf reupholstering your furniture feels too ambitious for you, Kropovinsky says you can make a smaller switch by swapping out the hardware.
"Details matter, and changing out the knobs or handles on dressers, cabinets, or side tables can elevate the piece," he explains.
You should look for "brushed brass, matte black, or even leather pulls," according to Kropovinsky. "Hardware is like jewelry for furniture; it makes a statement," he adds.
5 | Change up the legs.
iStockNew fabrics and handles aren't the only changes that can give you a more high-end look. Sandi Huynen, an interior designer who works as a home and design expert at Winnipeg Mortgage Broker, says that swapping out the legs of your cheap furniture is "another easy way" to elevate things.
"This is particularly effective with smaller items such as end tables, coffee tables, and even chairs," Huynen says. "Look for stylish, decorative legs in a classic or modern style which instantly add a designer touch."
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6 | Add intentional accessories.
iStockIf you're not confident with your DIY skills, focus on acquiring some accessories for your furniture instead. Ilia Mundut, founder and CEO of the online home design store HeftyBerry, tells Best Life that things like decorative trays, designer vases, or upscale table lamps can really enhance the overall appearance of pieces, without the need for much physical labor.
"Well-chosen accessories divert attention from the furniture itself and draw the eye to carefully curated elements," Mundut explains. "These accessories can set a sophisticated tone for the entire space."
