How to Make Your Bedroom Look Expensive (On a Budget!)
Want to know how to make your bedroom look expensive—even if you’re on a budget?
You’re in the right place.
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In this post, I’m sharing 10 simple decorating tips that’ll take your bedroom from basic to designer-level. You’ll learn how to style your bed, choose the right rug size, and avoid common furniture mistakes.
We’ll talk about mixing materials, layering lighting, and adding luxe touches that don’t cost a fortune. I’ll even show you how to work with what you already have to get that polished, high-end feel.
Whether your style is modern, cozy, minimal, or bold, these tips will work for you. Let’s turn your bedroom into a space you love to wake up in.
This post is all about how to make your bedroom look expensive.
READ MORE>>> Home Design Inspiration On Inspired Design Talk 2025
1. Choose a Quality Statement Bed
Let’s start with the star of the show—your bed.
It’s the biggest piece in the room and where you spend about a third of your life, so it should be comfortable, stylish, and durable. This is one of the few pieces where I always recommend investing.
Bed Frame Types
In a luxury bedroom design, you’ll often see timeless, neutral beds—think white, beige, gray, or cream. These colors help create an elegant bedroom that feels bright and serene.
Looking for a modern luxury primary bedroom feel? Choose a bed with clean lines and a subtle texture, such as boucle, linen, or velvet.
Boucle Bed Frame // Channel Tufted Velvet Bed Frame // Canopy Bed Frame // Amazon Upholstered Bed
Want to go bold? Try a mixed-material bed combining wood, metal, or leather. It’s a signature move in high-end bedroom spaces, and you don’t have to spend a fortune. Affordable options can be found at places like Walmart, Wayfair, and Amazon.
Canopy Bed // Shagreen Nightstand // Boucle Pouf Ottoman // Gold Sconce
Tall ceilings? A canopy bed creates instant drama and makes your space look like a designer boutique hotel.
2. Ground Your Bed with the Right Size Rug
If you want an expensive-looking bedroom, the right rug is key. It does more than keep your feet warm—it visually grounds your space and ties together your color palette.
Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
- Queen Bed: 8×10 (small rooms), 9×12 (larger rooms)
- King Bed: Start with 8×11, but 9×12 or 10×14 for bigger spaces
Even if you have carpet, layering a rug creates texture and depth. Want to keep it cozy but compact? Try a small runner or faux fur throw by the bed.
This one change can instantly give you that affordable luxury bedroom vibe.
3. Your Nightstands Don’t Have to Match Your Dresser
One of the easiest ways to make your bedroom look expensive?
Stop buying matchy-matchy furniture sets. Mixing pieces creates a custom designer bedroom look—which is exactly what you want.
Try burlwood nightstands with a dark-stained dresser or go for mixed-material pieces to add texture and contrast.
Nightstand Sizing Guide:
- Queen Bed: 22–28″ wide, 24–28″ high
- King Bed: 28–36″ wide, 24–30″ high
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And remember—clutter ruins the vibe. Choose nightstands with drawers if you need extra storage.
4. Add Mirrors to Your Design
Mirrors are one of the best-kept secrets of luxury bedroom decor. They reflect light, open up the space, and add a polished, high-end feel.
Start with a large floor mirror in a corner or near a window. Then add:
- A mirror above your dresser (go organic or arched!)
- Matching mirrors above your nightstands for boutique hotel vibes
These touches create balance, rhythm, and instant elegance.
5. Layer Your Bedding Like a Designer
Want to know what sets a designer bedroom apart from the rest? The bedding.
It’s always layered, full, and cozy.
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Bedding Breakdown:
- Crisp sheets (your foundation)
- Duvet (with a larger insert for a plush look)
- Folded quilt or blanket at the foot
- Cozy throw on top
- Mix of decorative pillows (go minimalist or layered—your call!)
Layered neutral bedding adds instant depth and gives your room that high-end bedroom design feel without spending a fortune.
6. Create a Moment with a Seating Area
Nothing says luxury like having a spot to sit that’s not the bed.
A pair of chairs with a table, a chic bench at the foot of the bed, or even two ottomans can elevate your room to designer status.
Have more space? Add a chaise lounge or small sofa and style it with a throw and pillows for that expensive looking bedroom moment.
7. Layer Your Lighting
Lighting is a major player in any elegant bedroom idea.
Swap your basic overhead light for a chandelier, semi-flush mount, or designer-style fan. Then layer in:
- Table lamps on nightstands
- Plug-in sconces or pendants for a modern look
- Floor lamps near your reading nook
The more lighting layers, the more finished and luxurious your room will feel.
8. Avoid the Black TV Box
If you’re like me, you might not love a TV in the bedroom—but sometimes it’s a must.
My solution? Swap out your standard TV for a Frame TV. When it’s off, it looks like art. Your bedroom stays beautiful and functional.
It’s a simple trick for keeping that modern luxury bedroom look intact.
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Frame TV // Media Cabinet // Sound Bar
9. Add Oversized Art
Large-scale artwork makes a space feel thoughtful and complete. It also draws the eye up and creates a focal point.
Oversized Artwork // Reeded Dresser
Whether it’s abstract art, a dreamy landscape, or a custom piece that tells your story—oversized art makes your room feel curated and high-end.
Hang it over the bed, dresser, or even on an unexpected wall in your bedroom design for visual impact.
10. Layer in Decor and Personal Touches
Let’s bring it all home.
To finish your space, layer in home decor that reflects your style:
- Sculptural vases
- Coffee table books
- Gold candlesticks or trinket trays
- Family photos
- Plants or faux greenery
Remember—edit your accessories. You want your room to feel calm, not cluttered.
The goal? A budget bedroom makeover that feels anything but cheap.
Wrap-Up: You Don’t Need a Big Budget to Look Expensive
And there you have it—10 easy ways to make your bedroom look expensive. You don’t need a big budget or a full renovation to get that designer look.
It’s all about thoughtful choices and layering in the right details. Start with a statement bed and build around it with rugs, lighting, and art.
Mix your furniture, layer your bedding, and don’t forget the power of mirrors. Add personal touches that reflect your style and make your space feel complete.
Small changes can make a big impact when done with intention. Now go create that dreamy, high-end bedroom you’ve been imagining!
If you want more help turning your entire home into a designer dream, check out my course Designer Home 101. You’ll learn everything from finding your style to choosing the finishing touches that make a room look complete.
This post is all about how to make your bedroom look expensive.
Last Updated on April 15, 2025 by Nicole DelaCruz
