Do you ever feel like your house is almost coming together, but you can't quite get it to that next level!?
It can be overwhelming as you scroll through Pinterest or Insta and see these homes that look so elegant and pulled together. Like, does everyone else know something that I don’t?!?!
Well, a little bit, actually. There is a secret, though. In fact…there’s 5.
Truth be told, there are some guidelines that you can use regardless of your design style that will instantly make your space feel more put together and take things up a notch.
No matter what your design style is (Traditional! Modern! English Cottage!) there are common threads that designers and stylemakers use to make spaces feel more elevated. In fact, we deploy these techniques on nearly every client project.
Used wisely, you can also make your space look wayyyyyyyyyy more expensive than it actually is!
1. Use larger rugs.
Say it with me: 5x8 rugs are too small for any room. You need to be using 8x10s at a minimum for most any space. Here are some guidelines:
8x10s are great for most bedrooms
9x12s for larger bedrooms and living rooms
10x14s for very large living rooms
It’s a good rule of thumb that the front feet of any piece of furniture in a seating group should be on the rug at a minimum. Even better if the entire piece fits. Sometimes that isn’t possible, so just make sure everyone has their front feet in the pool.
2. Window treatments
Guys, do not underestimate the impact of your window treatments. They instantly elevate any space, mostly by elevating your eye (see what I did there) and making the room feel taller. Having curtains that are too short, hung too low, or are too narrow will make a space feel…what’s the nice way to say this…cheap. Whoops, sorry, that wasn’t super nice. But it’s okay! We can fix this!! We have a whole series of posts on how to hang your curtains (HIGH AND WIDE) along with all of our favorite sources here, including some crazy affordable curtains that I have all over my house!
3. Natural Materials
Incorporating natural materials into your home is a surefire way to bring some sophistication about in a low-key way. Like the “It Girl” with that natural looking makup that is stunning but doesn’t look like she’s trying too hard. Our favorite natural materials include marble, wood, woven textiles, stone, and leather. It doesn’t hurt that these are super classic materials that have stood the test of time and have made it into the coveted category of Timeless. More info on how to spot timeless pieces vs. trends here.
4. Statement Lighting
Nothing is going to give you a wow factor like a killer statement light fixture. It instantly creates a focal point, and elevated spaces are allllll about having a focal point that captures your attention before your eye floats around the room. Whether it's a bold chandelier light, a sleek simple floor lamp, or a unique bedside lamp, don’t underestimate this move. A good table lamp rule of thumb, by the way, is to go bigger wider instead of spindly. Spindly looks cheap. Bigger looks expensive (even if it’s not).
5. Add Greenery
If you aren’t using plants and greenery in your space, you’re missing out on a huge opportunity for style and sophistication, my friend. Adding fresh greenery and plants to your home feels effortlessly elegant. We love using houseplants most anywhere, but you can make an equally bold statement (without the green thumb and effort) with faux branches in a large vase.
We hope these tips have given you some ideas on how to upgrade your space! As you’re shopping for your home, keep these 5 designer moves in mind to make thoughtful purchases towards a home you love!
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