How to Make Your Living Room Look Expensive, According to Designers

Decorating your living room on a budget doesn’t mean downplaying your style. In fact, there are plenty of ways to give your living room that wow factor without spending a ton.

To learn how, we spoke with two experienced interior designers for pro-approved tips on making your living room look expensive without breaking the bank.

Consider the Size

When decorating your living room, consider the size of your space and stay realistic with what furniture and decor you can add to it.

According to Huston, a common living room decorating mistake is people buying couches that are too big for the space because they like the style. But regardless of the style, buying furniture and decor that is too big can make a living room feel small and cluttered.

"We never want a living room to seem stuffed with furniture, it’d lose its magic," Huston says. "I recommend carefully choosing what you buy, especially those bigger items, and making sure that the proportions are correct."

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Shop Secondhand

If you’re looking to add furniture and decor to your space on a budget, consider secondhand items, like thrift store art or secondhand furniture.

According to Collier, thrift stores, garage sales, and online marketplaces like Offer Up or Facebook Marketplace are filled with hidden (and affordable) gems. 

Don’t let the low prices trick you into buying more than you need, though. Collier suggests only buying discount items that you’d pay full price for.

“You have to love it that much,” Collier says.

Don't Be Afraid to DIY Decor

Who says you have to buy new decor to style your living room? DIY decor can look just as good, if not better. 

Collier recommends getting creative and making your own decor items, like throw pillows, wall art, or furniture. You can even give your couch an upgrade with a DIY couch cover.

“There are plenty of tutorials online for DIY projects that can add a personal touch to your space without costing a lot," Collier says.

Repurpose and Upcycle

One of the easiest ways to elevate your living room on a budget is to work with what you already have and repurpose old furniture and decor. 

“An old trunk can become a coffee table or a vintage dresser can be transformed into a stylish media console with a fresh coat of paint,” Collier says.

Focus on Key Pieces

When you’re decorating your living room, not every single piece has to be a budget-friendly find. Collier suggests investing in a few key pieces of furniture to anchor the room, like a sofa or statement rug.

“By splurging on these items and saving on others, you can create a cohesive look without overspending,” Collier says. “I always recommend spending on items you will touch every day, save on items that get less traffic.”

Mix High and Low

Lastly, have some balance between more high-end pieces and affordable furniture and decor. 

“Pairing a designer coffee table with thrifted accent chairs or IKEA bookshelves can create a curated look that's both stylish and affordable,” Collier says.