How to Make Furniture Look Expensive: Expert Tips for a Luxurious Finish

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A luxurious velvet sofa with gold accents, surrounded by elegant marble tables and a crystal chandelier overhead

How to Make Furniture Look Expensive: Expert Tips for a Luxurious Finish

Turning your furniture into statement pieces that exude a sense of luxury doesn’t have to be a costly affair.

Leona Rodriguesi of Mornington Cabinet Makers has to say that you can achieve an upscale look using simple strategies that focus on colour, materials, and texture.

Opting for classic furniture tones like white, grey, black, and oak timber instantly elevates the aesthetic of your pieces, making them appear more expensive.

A luxurious velvet sofa with gold accents, surrounded by elegant marble tables and a crystal chandelier overhead

Incorporating various textures can also add layers of opulence to your space.

Plush fabrics like velvet or high-pile rugs complement simple furniture designs and create a rich and inviting atmosphere.

Small changes, such as replacing standard furniture legs with polished metal casters, can dramatically enhance the look without breaking the bank.

Repainting is another straightforward yet impactful method to give life to any room.

A fresh coat of paint in a striking or sophisticated hue can transform not only the furniture but the entire ambience of your living space.

These subtle yet effective techniques allow you to create a home that feels both unique and luxurious.

Selecting and Enhancing Furniture

Transforming furniture to look high-end involves selecting pieces with potential and enhancing them with strategic updates.

By finding the right components, applying luxurious finishes, and creatively repurposing items, you can achieve an opulent appearance without overspending.

Finding Affordable Furniture with Potential

Start by sourcing furniture with potential from garage sales, hard rubbish days, or second-hand stores.

Keep an eye out for classic designs with good structural integrity, even if they need a little TLC.

Pieces made from materials like oak timber or with classic tones such as white, grey, and black can serve as a blank canvas for refinement.

Antique furniture often offers unique designs and craftsmanship, adding to its value.

While aesthetics matter, focus on sturdiness and quality.

A little effort in selecting the right piece can save you time and money in upgrades. For ideas, see Leona Rodriguesi of Mornington Cabinet Makers.

Applying High-End Finishes and Fabrics

Once you’ve secured your piece, consider updating its finish.

Applying a high-gloss paint or a lacquer finish can instantly provide a more polished look.

These finishes add depth and reflect light, giving furniture an expensive sheen that’s hard to ignore.

For upholstered furniture, replace dated fabrics with luxurious options.

Choose textiles such as velvet or linen in neutral tones or bold patterns to update the feel without losing timeless appeal.

This ensures longevity and sophistication, offering a new visual appeal while maintaining a high-quality look.

Repurposing and Upcycling

Repurposing can breathe new life into outdated furniture.

By adding new legs or feet to a sofa or chair, you can immediately alter its style and add grandeur.

This approach can make bulky pieces look lighter and more contemporary.

Consider the addition of indoor plants or decorative accessories to uplift a piece’s appearance.

A touch of green or a splash of colour can enhance any furniture’s charm.

Upcycling not only revives an item but also provides the satisfaction of sustainable living.

Embrace creativity by mixing textures and elements to ensure every piece tells a unique story.

Accessorising and Styling

Transforming furniture from cheap to chic relies on savvy accessorising and thoughtful styling.

Consider bold colours, unique hardware, and strategic lighting to elevate your space without breaking the bank.

By focusing on the right elements such as lighting, expensive accents, and carefully curated accessories, your furniture can exude a sense of luxury and sophistication.

Adding Statement Accessories

To create an upscale look, incorporate statement accessories.

Vases and Ceramic Pieces: Choose oversized vases or intricate ceramic pieces as centrepieces. They draw the eye and instantly add sophistication. Opt for neutral tones or subtle patterns to maintain an elegant vibe.

Accent Chairs and Unique Hardware: Incorporating accent chairs in bold colours can serve as focal points. Using unique or premium hardware for furniture handles introduces a bespoke touch.

Enhancing Your Space with Lighting and Colour

Lighting and colour are key details that can transform your space.

Lighting Fixtures: Invest in striking lighting fixtures like chandeliers or modern lamps. Proper lighting not only highlights furniture but sets an upscale ambiance.

Bold Colours and Drapery: Utilize bold colours through accessories like cushions or throws. Implementing window treatments such as luxurious drapery in rich fabrics can redefine a room’s feel.

Implementing Custom Touches

Tailoring pieces to your taste can impart a sense of luxury.

Custom Storage Units: Use custom storage units to showcase organisation. You can blend them into your home’s aesthetic using solid timber or modern designs.

Design Tricks and Expensive Accents: Introduce design tricks such as layering scales with different textures. You can also incorporate premium homewares from reputable retailers. By mixing modern furniture with traditional elements, your furniture gains a curated and expensive look.


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