Professionals Who Stage Home Say These Cheap Tricks Make Your Home Way More Bougie

Kelly Fischer, lead designer at Havenly, says plants can make a big difference in your home. “Indoor plants reduce carbon dioxide, decrease airborne dust, and reduce levels of pollutants. That’s reason enough to add them into your home, but from a style perspective, they’re incredibly affordable while radiating an expensive feel,” says Fischer. This Golden Pothos plant has beautiful trailing arms and ships live to you. Its 8-inch height makes it perfect for displaying on a table or bookshelf, and it comes in one of two pretty ceramic pots. And as Fischer said, it will also serve as a natural air purifier.

“Depending on your design style, orchids, olive trees, and fiddle leaf figs would all add a luxe yet natural touch,” says Fischer. This fiddle leaf fig measures a foot, with room to grow (they can grow up to 6 feet tall), for a stunning touch for a corner of your living room, office, or bedroom. Not only does it add a touch of greenery to your space, but it also comes in a decorative terra cotta pot.

If you already have indoor plants, Fischer reminds, “Don’t forget a pretty planter.” These woven planters come in a budget-friendly pack of three that will look great anywhere in your home. Made from seagrass, they’ll instantly add texture and complement most decor styles. Since you get three sizes (small, medium, and large), you can stack them near each other for a chic staggered look or display them separately.

“Similarly, fresh flowers create a sense of easy luxury in your space,” Fischer explains. “You don’t have to go fancy here: simply choose a monochrome palette [...] to create an elevated look.” While you can pick up real flowers from your grocery store, these faux hydrangeas are a great option if you want a realistic look without the work of fresh flowers. Their silk petals and plastic, flexible stems allow you to easily arrange them. Create one large bouquet or separate the six pieces into different decorative vases. Choose monochrome white or 19 other vibrant colors.

If you want to go for fresh flowers as Fischer suggests or already own some faux options, the vase you choose can also make a big difference. This ceramic vase features handcrafted terracotta in a luxe, vintage-inspired shape. Its eye-catching glaze has two brown tones in a stylish gradient, while its large interior can easily fit large floral bouquets. And while its handles look great, they’re also practical, making it easier to move the vase where you want it.

“Hanging your curtains from rings rather than the rod pocket is great way to make your space feel more high-end,” advises Fischer. These luxe gold curtain rings will instantly add an expensive vibe to your space. They feature a high-quality metal build and nylon inner rings, so your curtains will easily glide over the rod. Simply slip the rings over your curtain rod and clip your curtain onto the rings.

If your pillows look a little flat, Fischer says to “make sure your pillows have plump inserts and feel nice and full.” Swap out old pillow inserts with these throw pillow inserts. Their 18-by-18-inch size is perfect for beds, couches, and armchairs, while their siliconized fiber filling will look plush and prevent flattening. They’re available in a wide variety of sizes, too —15 to be exact — to fit any pillow covers you own.

Fischer says to pay attention to “anything you interact with in a bathroom from your toilet paper holder to your taps,” adding that “good quality” fixtures will give your bathroom a luxe feel. To make sure your hardware matches, try this bathroom hardware set that features a towel bar, toilet paper holder, hand towel bar, and a hanging hook. Its sleek, matte black will blend seamlessly with any decor style, making your bathroom look put-together. Plus, it comes with hardware for easy installation.

“A beautiful blanket styled on a bed perfectly nails that high-low mix,” says Fischer. “Drape it casually over the edge for a more bohemian look or fold it neatly across the bottom of the bed for a classic, tidy effect.” This machine-washable faux fur blanket is the epitome of luxe and cozy, making it perfect for using as a decorative throw. Made from soft microfiber, it features a reversible design with silky faux fur and plush sherpa. It’s also pill- and fade-resistant, so it’ll stay looking great for years. Choose from nine gorgeous colors, or opt for one of the seven other sizes.

Fischer says swapping your lampshades help make your existing lamps look more expensive. “Create a more personalized look by swapping out a standard lampshade for something more upscale,” she says. She recommends looking for materials like “a textured linen or vintage-inspired paper.” These handcrafted linen lampshades come in an inexpensive two pack and have a stylish, classic bell shape that’ll suit most lamps. Once installed, their textured linen creates a soft, cozy glow, letting light through while comfortably diffusing it. To install them, simply unfold them, fold the frames into place, and screw them onto your lamps.

Another lampshade suggestion is to try a different shape. “Play with shapes, like switching out a boring drum shade for a dramatic coolie silhouette,” Fischer recommends. This elegant coolie lampshade features a pleated design that looks retro, timeless, and textured. Its ivory fabric is a blend of cotton and polyester with a durable inner liner that maintains its structured look. And since it features a 17-inch bottom diameter, it works well for larger lamps.

“Be sure not to neglect your need for a good piece of artwork in your bedroom. Photos are lovely too, but don’t forget art,” says Fischer, who adds that it “doesn’t need to be expensive to look expensive.” This gold-framed art is a classic Van Gogh painting of a golden field with swirling skies. Its frame looks antique (and expensive), with a gold brushed finish and ornate detailing around the borders. Its 9-by-12-inch size makes it easy to hang in a bathroom, bedroom, or family room.

“If you have the space, add seating,” Fischer recommends. “A bench at the end of your bed, a small set of chairs. Additional seating in a bedroom is a great way to make your bedroom feel more luxe.” This chic storage ottoman features a tufted fabric surface that looks like linen. Its top cushion is plush and comfortable, while the interior is spacious, allowing plenty of storage for blankets, books, shoes, or linens. Place it at the foot of your bed for additional seating and hidden storage.

“Match all of your light bulbs,” Fischer advises. “Keep them a consistent hue and make sure you have lots of ambient light rather than just overhead. Ambient light immediately makes your home feel more expensive and also more cozy.” These 60-watt LED light bulbs are energy-efficient, provide warm-white lighting, and are flicker-resistant. Screw them into your lamps, pendant lights, or wall sconces, and they’ll last 10 times longer than incandescent bulbs. A pack of six is also super inexpensive per bulb.

“I personally love a funky bowl. The more sculptural the better,” Fischer raves. “A funky bowl can really make a statement.” This decorative bowl answers the call, with a sculptural, grooved design that resembles a seashell or piece of art. Handmade from durable resin, it’s sturdy material won’t chip or break. Use its interior to display decorative items on your coffee table or fruits on your kitchen table.

Fischer says that coffee table books, though “often overlooked,” can elevate your space. She recommends using them on a console, bookcase, or nightstand. This set of faux coffee table books feature pretty decorative covers that look like art, fashion, and travel books, with matching, high-end spines. Stack them together or spread them throughout your home. Their interiors feature blank white paper, so you can even use them as journals or scrapbooks.

Like coffee table books, Fischer recommends setting out floral arrangements on flat surfaces. These faux tulips are inexpensive and will last much longer than real flowers. Made from a high-quality PU plastic, they feature bendable stems so you can arrange them to your liking. Put them in a vase to display on a sideboard, table, or shelf. To clean them, simply wipe them with a damp cloth.

“If I am looking to upgrade a bathroom to look more luxe, the first change I would make would be to upgrade the tapware and hardware of the bathroom,” says Angelique Kelly, interior designer with Australian furniture brand Yabby. Try something like this brushed gold hardware set. Its durable stainless steel is rust-resistant, while its luxe gold finish looks way more expensive than its price tag. The set includes a towel ring, towel bar, toilet paper holder, and wall hook for hanging a robe, loofah, or scrub brush.

“I know this one will sound a bit weird, but having just a basic duvet on your bed can make the room seem boring,” says Kelly. Instead, swap it for something more fun, like this garden flower duvet cover. It features a dreamy, blue and orange floral pattern that harkens back to vintage textiles à la William Morris. And while it looks incredible, it’s also comfortable and practical — its soft cotton is lightweight, breathable, and machine-washable to boot.

• Available sizes: Twin XL — California King
• Available patterns: 42

“If you want to elevate the appearance of the room, try to layer your bedding,” advises Kelly. This handmade blanket has an ultra-soft chenille yarn in a chunky knit that’ll bring texture to your space. Drape it over a chair or layer it on your bed for an elevated look. Choose from 30 rich colors and six sizes. It’s also extremely durable — it won’t pill, tear, or shed.

Another way to layer bedding is to add accent pillows. “Not only is this an easy and cheap change to make, but it will also make your room feel like a hotel,” says Kelly. These soft chenille throw pillow covers will add color to your bed or couch. The thick, durable polyester material not only looks elegant but also feels cozy while adding a luxe knit texture to your room. Grab the set in bold colors like orange or yellow or rich neutrals like cream, gray, and brown.

Kelly also adds that good quality sheets can easily elevate your bedroom and make it feel hotel-like. This set of sheets feature a cozy microfiber that’s moisture-resistant and soft (thanks to its double-brushed fabric). Their moisture-wicking fabric will also keep you comfortable year-round, and it won’t wrinkle. Included in the set is a deep pocket fitted sheet, a flat sheet, and four pillowcases.

• Available sizes: Twin — California King
• Available colors: 10

Kelly recommends swapping overhead lighting for something more soothing. “Overhead lighting alone makes a space feel cold and unflattering. I swap out your basic ceiling lights for stylish statement fixtures and always add lamps, sconces and other lighting sources to create a lovely, layered look in the room.” Something like this bedside lamp will make your room feel cozy and chic. It features a unique 3-D printed design that looks like sculptural art, plus a stylish wooden base. Its unique corn silk base casts a soft, golden glow that’s perfect for your bedside table.

Like Kelly’s recommendation for statement lamps, sconces are also on her list of overhead lighting swaps. Add these ultra-budget-friendly wall sconces to your space for romantic, soft lighting. They mount easily onto your wall with screws. Each sconce features a retro-inspired metal frame and an acrylic cylindrical candle holder that’s perfect for flameless candles. Their modern-meets-retro design will look great in an entryway, bedroom, or living room.

Another sconce option is this rechargeable sconce. Adhere the walnut wood base plate to your wall and the light attaches to the base magnetically. Once charged, you can choose between always on or motion-sensing for warm, ambient lighting. It also doubles as a night-light if you remove the light from the plate.

“The final touch in the styling journey will be plants and greenery,” says Kelly. “This will make a room feel more ‘alive,’ so use real plants where you can instead of plastic. It will make the room fee more curated, fresh and friendly!” These houseplants will not only add some pretty greenery but also help purify your air. A three pack will include a random assortment of plants like snake plants, ivy, or lilies potted inside white ceramic pots with a stylish speckled glaze. They’re small enough to place on your desk, coffee table, or bookshelf, too.

Although Kelly recommends real plants, faux plants are also a way to add greenery to your space if you can’t have live plants. This set of small artificial plants look realistic, thanks to detailed veining and life-like gradient colors on their leaves. Adjust the flexible branches to make them look natural, then display them on a desk, table, or windowsill. They also have paper pulp pots in three chic designs.

Placing floral accents can also help curate your space per Kelly’s suggestion. These realistic, high-quality silk lavender sprigs look like the real deal — without the mess. Four sprigs come at a budget-friendly price and feature varying heights so that you can style them together as a bouquet. Use them for a pop of color in your kitchen, dining room, or office.

Another pro tip from Kelly is to declutter your space. “Nothing makes a space feel smaller or cheaper than too much stuff. If something doesn’t serve a purpose, it’s gotta go,” says Kelly. To aid you in your decluttering, try the New York Times bestseller The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up. In it, clutter expert Marie Kondo uses the Japanese KonMari Method to help you sort, donate, and organize by category. This life-changing method of tackling clutter has earned rave reviews from over 38,000 Amazon shoppers.

Alecia Taylor, designer at CabinetNow.com, says sticking to “neutral tones with rich accents” is key. “Think warm taupe, greige, or soft white with hints of deep blue or emerald. This creates an elegant, timeless backdrop,” explains Taylor. This duvet cover has a luxe feel and an elegant waffle-weave texture that will look eye-catching in your bedroom. It also incorporates the deep blue shade that Taylor recommends. In addition to looking great, it features comfortable, breathable cotton and classic details like button and tie closures.

Other textures in your home include bathroom towels. Try using neutral colors, as Taylor suggests. This bath towel set has a pretty taupe shade and high-quality combed cotton. The towels’ long-lasting fibers are ultra-absorbent, fast-drying, and lint-free, with sturdy reinforced edges. A set has two bath towels, two hand towels, and four matching washcloths. It’s also available in other neutrals like gray, silver, and ivory.

“A mix of overhead lighting, sconces, and table lamps adds warmth and dimension, making the space feel curated and intentional,” says Taylor. This sunset lamp is a good option for creating ambient lighting that sets a specific tone. Sit the lamp where you want it, then angle the light up to 180 degrees to cast dreamy sunset tones onto your wall. Its remote control and app offer over 20 color options, adjustable brightness, and speed controls.

Taylor says swapping out “outdated mirrors for oversized, framed options or backlit styles” can make all the difference. This backlit mirror features adjustable LED lights with three color temperatures and anti-fog technology, so it’s always crystal-clear. Use it in your bathroom for applying makeup or everyday grooming. Its convenient touch controls and sleek design will make your bathroom look like a hotel or spa.

Taylor calls a rainfall showerhead “an affordable upgrade that feels spa-like.” This one has an inexpensive price and over 90 anti-clog silicone nozzles that deliver a luxurious spray. It also has a built-in shower filter that removes hard water, which is easier on your skin and hair. Besides its efficiency, it also has a luxe gold finish that looks expensive.

“Add a statement headboard — upholstered or wood-paneled designs create a boutique hotel vibe,” says Taylor. This unique headboard mounts to your wall in just 30 minutes. Its cool aesthetic blends subdued gray fabric, sleek metal bars, and brown faux leather straps for a trendy, modern-vintage vibe. It also comes in all faux leather, tufted gray fabric, and a chic white bouclé.

“Layered bedding with plush pillows and textured throws gives the room a designer touch,” says Taylor. These bed pillows have a plush down-alternative polyester that will be comfortable and look incredible layered on your bed. Inside, each pillow has a cooling gel infusion to keep you cool while sleeping or lounging. They also offer a bounce-back construction that supports your head in any sleeping position.

Taylor also said textured throws give your room a luxe, designer feel. Opt for something like this faux fur blanket. The faux fur side has a thick, shaggy plush, while the other side is a soft, warm sherpa. Its dark gray tie dye effect will create plenty of luxe texture that will look stunning on your bed, couch, or armchair. This highly rated, cozy pick is also machine-washable.

Taylor has another cool hack: “Ditch cheap blinds and opt for floor-to-ceiling curtains to make the ceilings feel higher.” These linen-blend curtains will give your room a soft, airy feel while elongating the appearance of your space. You can easily hang them via their eight nickel grommets each, and their open-weave fabric will gently filter light without overly darkening your room. Choose from 19 muted colors and nine sizes.

Another tip from Taylor? “Swap basic ceiling fans or fluorescent lights for modern chandeliers or sleek pendants,” she says. This inexpensive matte black pendant light will look great in your kitchen or dining room, instantly adding effortless style to your room. Its chic design features a clear glass shade and an E26 base for smart or Edison-style bulbs. It also has a 55-inch adjustable cord to get the perfect height for your room.

If your fixtures look dated, your entire room will look dated. This modern ceiling light is easy to install, and in keeping with Taylor’s advice to update your fixtures. This features six exposed bulbs that all direct light in different directions, and it comes in three colors to match your space.

Taylor’s trick to make a home look more expensive? Swap out plastic decor for organic materials like wood. These wooden wall planters are so beautiful, and easy to stick onto any wall. Each vase can hold a few flowers or eucalyptus stems. So chic!

Another organic material Taylor recommends is linen, and these pretty linen throw pillow covers are an easy way to integrate linen into your space. Choose from one of 18 different color options and six different sizes. The contrast piping along the pillows is a nice detail.

“This vase is exactly what I was looking for! Well made, subtle color,” says one Amazon reviewer. Taylor recommends ceramic materials as an organic replacement for plastic decor, and this rustic vase totally fits that bill. It measures just under 8 inches in height and width, and the exterior texture really elevates the look.

Rugs have a big impact on your space, and Taylor’s advice is to stick to neutrals. She recommends using “large neutral area rugs to anchor the space elegantly.” This neutral area rug has a pretty striped pattern on it and measures 5 feet by 7 feet. This comes in 14 patterns and 12 sizes so you can find the perfect style for your room.

“[Framed artwork] makes a space feel intentional and upscale without major renovations,” says Taylor. So pick up a few frames and frame your own art, or you can invest in pre-framed art like this ocean canvas. This neutral seascape goes with so many home decor styles, but you can choose from 26 different pieces of art and seven different sizes.