10 Decor Items Every Home Needs To Look Expensive
If you want a home that looks polished and put together, these are the decor items every home needs.
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In this post, I’m sharing 10 affordable pieces designers use over and over again to make any space feel elevated and expensive.
You don’t need a big budget to get the look. These pieces are budget-friendly, easy to find, and instantly pull a room together.
They add personality, warmth, and that high-end designer feel.
So grab your favorite drink and let’s dive into how to decorate like a pro on a budget.
This post is all about decor items every home needs.
READ MORE>>> Home Decor Inspiration On Inspired Design Talk 2025
1. Affordable Area Rugs That Look High-End
A large area rug grounds your space and makes everything feel more cohesive. When I first decorated our living room, I wanted a custom rug that cost over $2,000.
Instead, I found a 10×14 option for under $300 that gave me the same designer impact. Rugs add softness, texture, and instantly finish a room.
Just don’t forget the rug pad! The added cushion gives it that plush, luxurious feel underfoot and keeps the rug from slipping.
Area Rug // Velvet Panel Linen Pillows // Abstract Pillows
Rugs are also a great way to define spaces in open floor plans. They visually anchor your furniture layout and make the room feel more intentional.
You can go bold with a pattern or keep it neutral, depending on your palette.
Pro Tip: Measure your space first and aim to have your furniture sitting on the rug, not floating off the edges.
2. Designer Mirror Ideas to Make a Room Look Bigger
Mirrors reflect light and make a room feel bigger and brighter. They’re perfect for small spaces and bring that high-end feel.
Whether it’s a floor mirror in the bedroom or a gold-framed piece in the entry, mirrors combine style and function.
You can layer mirrors behind nightstands, above a console, or even in a hallway to visually expand narrow spaces.
I especially love organic-shaped mirrors in modern interiors for their sculptural feel. And for traditional spaces, a classic gold or black frame never goes out of style.
Bonus tip: Mirrors work beautifully opposite a window. This trick bounces more natural light around the room and can double the visual impact of any outdoor view.
Don’t be afraid to go oversized; bigger makes a bolder statement.
3. How to Style Throw Pillows Like a Designer
Pillows are a designer’s go-to favorite for adding color, pattern, and texture. I styled my navy velvet sofa three ways to show how easily they transform the space. Watch on Youtube to see the options.
You can totally change the vibe of a space just by swapping out pillows. HomeGoods, Target, and Amazon are great for affordable finds.
If you want something more custom, I love Little Design Co. The covers are an investment, but you can reuse your inserts and simply change the look each season.
Pro Tip: Always size up your insert by 2 inches. It creates that full, luxe shape designers love.
So, for a 22-inch pillow cover, use a 24-inch insert. I prefer down fills for that perfect ‘chop,’ but synthetic works great for allergy-sensitive homes.
4. Budget Accent Chairs That Elevate Your Space
An accent chair is the perfect way to show off your personality. Think sculptural shapes, textured fabrics, and interesting frames.
You don’t need to splurge, places like HomeGoods and Wayfair have amazing budget finds that look high-end.
3. Cosway Barrel Chair // 4. Walmart Accent Chair // 5. Swivel Chair // 6. Look For Less Swivel Chair // 7. Three Leg Accent Chair // 8. Target Accent Chair
In our home, we have Bernhardt ivory velvet chairs (3) with a textured metal frame and three legs. They were a splurge, but they completely elevate the space.
I’ve seen similar shapes and materials at a fraction of the price. Look for unique silhouettes, boucle fabric, or wood detail that makes the chair feel more like a statement piece.
Rocking Chair // Floor Table Lamp
Style one in a reading nook with a floor lamp and drink table, or place a pair opposite your sofa for balance. Accent chairs are one of those decor items that can instantly upgrade the room’s sophistication.
5. Affordable Ottomans for Small Spaces
Ottomans are functional and stylish. They can double as seating, storage, or a footrest. Use them in front of a fireplace, under a console, or even around a dining table. They add that cozy designer layer to any room.
I love the brown swivel ottoman from the Studio McGee collection at Target. It’s small but mighty and brings in both function and softness.
You can also find beautiful ottomans at HomeGoods and TOV. They’re known for bold, stylish shapes at accessible prices.
Jute Ottoman // Shearling Ottoman // Fringe Velvet Ottoman
Poufs are great for casual settings. They offer flexible seating and can be tucked away when not in use. Choose textured fabric or woven materials to add dimension to your space.
6. Statement Wall Art on a Budget
Statement art sets the tone for your space. I love oversized pieces, and you can find great options at HomeGoods or Wayfair.
Don’t be afraid to try something bold, even a neon sign can work in the right spot.
I have pieces from Leftbank Art, which is to-the-trade, but I once found a nearly identical piece at HomeGoods for under $300 while waiting for a photoshoot delivery. Total score! Wayfair also carries designer-inspired prints and canvases that make a room feel finished.
Art is also a great place to start your color palette. Pull tones from your favorite piece to guide your choices for pillows, throws, and decor. And remember, art doesn’t have to be expensive to be impactful.
For tips on oversized art, gallery walls, and wall paneling, check out this roundup of large wall decor ideas.
7. Small Drink Tables That Look Expensive
Drink tables are a small-space secret weapon. They’re unexpected and chic, perfect next to a chair or between a pair. Look for materials like marble, brass, or wood to tie your room together.
I have two in my home, and they’re both from West Elm for under $100. You can also find great versions at Walmart, HomeGoods, or Wayfair.
They’re perfect for placing next to a reading chair or floating between furniture when you don’t want a full side table.
Beyond looks, they’re functional too. Your guests will thank you for having a place to rest a drink. And you’ll love how they make your room feel thoughtful and complete.
8. How to Style Coffee Table Books
Books add height, interest, and that styled look designers love. Use them on coffee tables, dressers, or shelves.
Pro Tip: Check under the dust jacket, most have neutral covers that work better for styling.
Designer books double as decor and inspiration. They’re also one of the most affordable decor items every home needs.
I like to use ones by my favorite designers because they spark ideas and look beautiful. If you want a monochrome palette, turn the books so the pages face out for a softer, neutral look.
Stack books under candles, sculptures, or trays to elevate decor and make your styling feel more layered and curated.
9. Designer Table Lamps for Less
Lighting is the jewelry of your room and one of the top decor items every home needs to feel polished and complete. Table lamps are functional and decorative.
Go for sculptural bases or unique shades. Target and Amazon have amazing look-for-less versions of high-end designer lamps.
A pair of lamps on a dresser, console, or nightstands adds symmetry and height. Choose shades with pleats, prints, or fun trims to bring personality into the room.
Bone Inlay Table Lamps // Surf Board Artwork // White Side Tables // Navy Sofa
Some of my favorite affordable lamps are inspired by Kelly Wearstler and Serena & Lily. With a little hunting, you can find dupes that look just as high-end for a fraction of the cost.
10. Real and Faux Greenery That Makes Your Home Feel Fresh
Greenery brings life to any space. Whether you use real plants or faux, it adds freshness and movement. Trader Joe’s flowers are my go-to for a weekly refresh that makes the whole room feel new.
Even something simple like eucalyptus in a vase adds texture and color. Faux olive trees or potted plants can be styled in corners, on shelves, or on tabletops.
Greenery is the final layer that helps a room feel alive and complete. Don’t skip this step. It’s one of the easiest ways to make your home feel expensive.
Final Thoughts
These 10 decor items every home needs can completely transform your space. Each one adds a layer of polish, personality, and intentional design.
Whether it’s a bold piece of artwork, a cozy ottoman, or a sculptural lamp, the right decor creates that designer look without the designer price.
The best part? You don’t need to do everything at once. Start with one item, like a rug or mirror, and build from there.
With just a few smart updates, you can make your home feel more expensive, more welcoming, and more like you.
Let me know in the comments which item you’re adding first. And if you’re ready to level up your design skills, check out my course Designer Home 101. I’d love to help you design a home you truly love. Happy designing!
This post is all about decor items every home needs.
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Last Updated on July 7, 2025 by Nicole DelaCruz
