Want a home that screams expensive without the actual price tag? The secret isn’t only about where you shop. It’s about what interior designers call high-low decorating, where you mix high and low-end decor for that luxe NYC look.
Combining affordable decor with investment pieces creates a home that looks luxe but doesn’t cost a fortune. And in NYC, where space is limited and style is everything, this is the ultimate way to get a polished, designer look without spending like one.
Ready to upgrade your NYC digs? Let’s break down exactly where to splurge, where to save, and how to blend it all seamlessly:
Splurge on Statement Pieces, Save on the Rest
Every great space has a focal point—a bold sofa, a stunning chandelier, a jaw-dropping piece of art. These pieces anchor a room and instantly elevate it.
Where to Splurge:
✔ Invest in a well-made sofa (your living room’s MVP—go for comfort and durability).
✔ Don’t underestimate a quality bed frame and mattress (you spend 1/3 of your life here—make it count!).
✔ Opt for a comfortable and timeless dining table (solid wood = longevity).
✔ A statement light fixture (it transforms a room).
Where to Save:
✔ Throw pillows and blankets (affordable, and you can swap them out seasonally).
✔ Trendy decor items (skip the $300 vase, get the $30 one that looks just as good).
✔ Side tables, nightstands, and shelving (affordable options abound at IKEA, CB2, and Wayfair).
Pro Tip: Splurging on one standout piece per room creates a high-end look, even if the rest of your decor is budget-friendly.
Mix Materials for a Luxe Contrast
The designer home is about contrast. Mixing different textures and materials makes a space feel layered, expensive, and well-curated, even if some pieces are low-end. Here’s how to do it:
✔ Pair high-end upholstery (like a velvet or linen sofa) with a budget-friendly metal coffee table.
✔ Balance a vintage wood dresser with modern acrylic decor pieces.
✔ Use natural textures (rattan, jute, stone) to warm up sleek, minimalist elements.
Pro Tip: Contrast creates depth. For example, if everything in your space is glossy and new, mix in something raw and aged (like a vintage mirror or distressed wood piece) to keep things balanced.Mix Materials for a Luxe Contrast
Fake the Look of Custom Design
Custom-built furniture and millwork? Gorgeous, but pricey. Luckily, you can fake that high-end, tailored look for much less.
Easy High-End Hacks:
✔ DIY Built-ins: Buy IKEA bookshelves and add molding to create a customized wall unit.
✔ Swap Out Hardware: Replace generic cabinet knobs with luxe brass or marble pulls.
✔ Upgrade Your Lighting: Even a basic rental can feel designer with stylish, plug-in sconces.
Pro Tip: Never settle for builder-grade finishes. Swapping hardware and light fixtures is an easy, budget-friendly way to make your space feel custom and expensive.
Use Art and Accessories to Elevate the Space
Mix of high and low-end art and accessories is key to getting that expensive look for less. Use both types of items throughout to create an ambiance of a designer-curated space.
✔ Oversized Art: A large-scale piece (even an affordable print!) looks instantly high-end.
✔ Layer Your Rugs: Put a smaller, vintage rug over a larger, budget-friendly jute rug for a designer effect.
✔ Decorate in Groups of Three: Styling objects in odd numbers feels effortlessly polished and interesting.
Pro Tip: Art can be affordable and personal! Try framing your own photography, vintage posters, or even high-quality fabric swatches for a unique, curated look.
Stick to a Cohesive Color Palette
Nothing says expensive like a well-thought-out color scheme. You can certainly go with the 60/30/10 rule, or try one of these:
✔ Neutrals + One Accent: A mix of whites, beiges, and grays, plus one statement color (think deep green, navy, or terracotta).
✔ Tone-on-Tone Styling: Stick to variations of the same shade for a designer-approved, layered look.
✔ Use Black for Contrast: Even in a light, airy space, touches of black (hardware, picture frames, lighting) add sophistication and depth.
Pro Tip: When in doubt, stick with muted, rich tones over bright, trendy colors—they’ll always feel timeless and luxe.
Final Thoughts: Luxe Looks Without the Luxury Price Tag
With the right mix, your space will look designer-curated—without the designer price tag. Invest in a few key pieces, mix in budget-friendly finds, and focus on details like texture, contrast, and color.
Need help designing your space? Our team of NYC-based designers specializes in making homes look expensive on a budget. Book a free consultation today!