Designers swear by these easy, under-$30 tricks that make your home look expensive

Ryan Nelson, experienced home stager and founder/CEO of Rental Real Estate, calls these string lights “a fun and easy way to create ambiance.” With over nine feet of copper wire and 300 twinkling LED lights, they give your space an ethereal glow, whether you hang them over your curtains or above your bed. “With eight lighting modes and a remote, you can set any vibe you want. Perfect for making spaces feel cozy and inviting,” Nelson says.

Landlords will love these floating shelves, which leave your walls unscathed. According to Nelson, they “instantly add stylish storage and open up smaller spaces like dorms, bathrooms, or offices.” When you buy, you'll receive three shelves (which hold 30 pounds each) and all the brackets and adhesive hang hooks you’ll need for an easy installation.

Your phone and laptop get regular upgrades — your security system should, too. This easy-to-install video doorbell mount is compatible with most models, so you can keep an eye on your home from any angle. Nelson calls it “a practical solution for renters or anyone not wanting to drill into their doors/walls,” praising the “peace of mind” it provides.

Brighten your kitchen and bathroom with this grout pen. “By doing this, it is possible to have your tiles appear as if just installed once again,” says interior designer Nitya Seth. With its nontoxic, water-based colorant, each pen covers up to 150 feet of thin grout. Plus, its low-odor formula lets you breathe easily after you use it.

For a quick and easy upgrade with minimal commitment, try this peel-and-stick backsplash. Seth recommends them if you want to “[give] your kitchen a fresh new look without the [hassle] of traditional tiling.” Their durable material resists water, stains, and heat — and when you’re ready for another change, you can remove them in seconds. You can buy these in five different shades.

For a low-cost option that feels luxurious, try these velvet cushion covers. Their soft fabric is perfect for snuggling up and watching a show after a long day since they feel like lying on a cloud. They look so chic on your couch or bed, and they’re made of real velvet. “The expensive look of velvet texture and sheen comes without any high price tag,” says Seth.

Add storage to any room in seconds with these adhesive hooks. “Stylish adhesive hooks make practical additions to entryways for keys, bags, or towels/robes for bathrooms,” says Seth. Seth is a fan because “they don’t cost much and you can remove them from walls without causing any damage.” With their brushed stainless steel material, they look so sleek in any space, and each hook holds 15 pounds at a time. Simply peel their adhesive backing and stick them into place.

Seth recommends "adding a decorative tray to your coffee table or vanity” for a chic way to stay organized, especially “trays with metallic finishes or marble designs.” With its stunning marbled surface and gold accents, this one certainly fits the bill. With its nonslip base, it's both sturdy and stylish, and it won't scratch your countertops.

According to Pete Trentacoste, Head of Interior Design at gosummer.com, "Replacing old cabinet hardware with new, stylish knobs and pulls can transform the look of your cabinetry. This simple swap can make your kitchen or bathroom feel more polished and high-end.” These handles will instantly infuse a classic elegance into any space, and their stainless steel material is built to last. Bonus: they come with all the mounting hardware you need.

“Adding LED strip lights under cabinets or behind furniture can create a sophisticated ambiance,” says Trentacoste, praising their ability to “change the mood of a room instantly.” Install them in your bedroom, bathroom, or kitchen for an easier way to see in the dark. They come with remote controls, so you can operate them at a distance, and their optional on/off timers save energy.

City dwellers and chefs will adore this indoor herb garden. Jonathan Faccone, founder and managing member of Halo Homebuyers, calls them “perfect for small spaces” and “a great addition to any kitchen,” since you’ll save money growing your own herbs, rather than buying them at the grocery store. You can hone your culinary skills and your green thumb at the same time.

Elissa Hall, founder and lead designer at EDH Interiors, knows that “adding strategically placed mirrors can make a significant difference,” since they “not only enhance natural light but also create an illusion of space.” With these mirror tiles, you can try her tip in any room, since they require minimal space. Their strong adhesive backs keep them securely stuck to your walls.

"Using peel-and-stick wallpaper is an excellent way to add character to a room without committing to permanent changes,” says Hall. This particular wallpaper is made of a durable vinyl material that lasts until your next decorative experiment. Plus, it looks much more expensive than it is; Hall recommends it “to create accent walls, line the back of bookshelves, or even update furniture.”

Anyone with a crafty sensibility will adore this velvet ribbon, which gives any space a dreamy and delicate flair. According to Hall, you can use it to “tie back curtains, create custom drawer pulls, or even as a trim for lampshades,” which gives “everyday items a more polished and cohesive look.” When you buy, you'll receive about 50 yards of ribbon, so you'll have more than enough to deck out your whole home.

"Using gold leaf adhesive paper on small furniture pieces or accessories can add a touch of glamour,” says Hall. “I used gold leaf adhesive paper to line the inside of a tray, turning it from a simple storage piece into a striking decorative element." When you buy, you’ll receive an instruction guide that helps you pull off any project with ease. Each pack comes with 25 sheets, which you can use on candles, coasters, or any other home accessories.

Nick Chatzigeorgakis, founder of leading design-build firm Intrabuild, praises the “sophistication and functionality” of these puck lights. He calls them “affordable, easy to install,” and a great way to “immediately add a modern touch to your home lighting.” You can add them to closets for extra light, or even by the stairs to provide extra safety. You can also set their timers to save energy.

FLOOR360 interior designer Nichole Abbott has something of a magic trick to share: "Replace square kitchen area rugs and random mats with rug runners to create the illusion that your kitchen is larger than it is.” This one has a nonslip back and a stain-resistant fabric, so it's great for busy areas. Since it's so slim, it won't obstruct doorways, and you’ll adore its two-tone design.

One surefire way to streamline your decor? “Coordinate all your kitchen essentials using matching neutral color decorative sets,” says Abbott. Marble is always in style, and you can add it to your space with this kitchen utensil holder. With its sturdy base and durable resin material, it’s both fashionable and functional; plus, it frees up space in your drawers.

"Buy a matching set of cooking utensils instead of a cluttered and scattered look,” advises Abbott. This stainless steel set comes with all the essentials, including a whisk, a slotted spoon, and a pair of tongs. Each piece remains smudge and fingerprint-free, and they come with a convenient holder for storage. When you’re finished cooking or baking, you can simply toss them in the dishwasher.

According to Abbott, painting your living room accents the same color will make them “[look] expensive and luxurious instead of unnecessarily chopping up the space.” With this paint and primer, you can skip the extra steps for instantly stunning results. It works on most surfaces, and its nontoxic formula is made without heavy metals, solvents, and formaldehyde.

"Modernize the look of your lamp with a neutral linen drum shade,” advises Abbott. “The linen provides texture and a pleasing light glow to your layered lighting scheme in a living space or bedroom.” Its beige hue casts your bedroom in a warm glow, and it's incredibly easy to install with most table and floor lamps. With a slight diffusing effect, it makes each ray of light seem to stretch even further.

Movies like Uptown Girls and Clueless feature iconic rooms that are just a bit chaotic. Add that free-spirited flair to your own space with accessories that don’t quite match. “Matching everything is what makes your room look cheap and uninteresting,” says Abbott, who recommends heirloom-style pieces like this statue of Diana, which “[gives] the impression of discerning taste and flair for curating and displaying art.” Its realistic details and resin material give it a high-quality look and feel.

Turn your memories into tangible works of art with this set of picture frames. “When arranged thoughtfully, they create a gallery-like effect that adds depth and character to any room,” says Giovanni Scippo, designer and director at 3D Lines. When you buy, you'll receive 10 frames, which are made with high-definition glass to show off and protect your photos.

For a chic light fixture that doubles as a decoration, try a wall sconce or two. According to Scippo, “These fixtures can cast a warm, inviting glow, highlighting other design elements and creating a cozy, elegant ambiance.” These particular sconces are available in gold and black metal, and they come with flared white lampshades for a classic look.

Fun wall art can add a pop of personality to any room, and you don’t have to shell out for pricey paintings. “High-quality prints can mimic the appearance of expensive artwork,” says Scippo, “adding sophistication without the high price tag.” These botanical prints are no exception, and their solid wood frames are built to last. You’ll receive four prints, which you can spread throughout your home or keep in one room.

If you’re redesigning your dining room, Alexandra Cooper, an interior designer at Planner 5D, recommends table runners for elegance and sophistication. “Table runners add a touch of color, elegance, and sophistication to your dining area and cost less than a normal tablecloth. Linen runners especially are durable and provide a timeless, classic look that can be easily changed to suit different occasions and seasons,” Cooper says. This one is woven from a thick and durable fabric, and its stylish tassels make your space look so chic. Plus, it comes in five great colors.

“Scented candles in stylish containers easily enhance both the smell and look of your home,” says Cooper. This one has a vanilla crème brûlée scent that evokes a cozy bakery or a holiday celebration. It burns for up to 65 hours, and its container is minimalist and chic. Cooper calls candles like these “perfect for relaxing evenings and special occasions alike.”

Chris Langley, interior designer and visionary director of Just Value Patio Doors, recommends decorative trays to declutter your space. This one has stainless steel handles for durability, and its soft fabric base protects your surfaces. You can keep it in any room, and since it costs less than a night out, you might as well buy more than one. “Fill it with candles, books, or small pots,” advises Langley.

“Place decorative mats in unexpected locations, like on top of your dresser or bookshelf, to create some texture and interest,” says Langley. For a cute and chic pattern with a rustic farmhouse vibe, this one fits the bill. It's made of 100% cotton, and its durable fabric holds up against daily wear and tear. If it gets dirty, you can toss it in the washing machine and lay it flat to dry.

“My secret tip is to free up counter space and keep your spices organized with a magnetic spice rack,” says Brian Curran, architect, interior designer, and founder of DraftingServices.com. This one has eight sturdy metal tins and a strong magnetic back to keep your favorite flavors in great condition. Plus, its sleek design elevates your space. “Always go for racks that have clear lids, making it easier to see the contents of each jar,” Curran adds.

Brad Smith, CEO and lead designer at Omni Home Ideas, recommends dressing up dull walls with stylish panels. “This can be particularly effective in bland spaces,” he says, “adding a touch of architectural sophistication.” These scalloped panels are made of durable polyurethane, which is lightweight enough to hang with ease. They're also factory-primed, so you can add your own paint or leave them as they are.

"Swapping out old faucet aerators with new, stylish ones can make an ordinary sink look high-end,” says Smith. This one has an anti-clogging dome, which filters out sediment and particles for a cleaner stream of water. It's incredibly easy to install, and its tightening grooves create a strong seal. At a price point below $10, it’s more than worth trying.

“Stretch vibrant fabric over a frame to create eye-catching wall art,” says Smith. This velvet fabric is a great way to get started. Its long-lasting material won’t pill or fade, so you can take it with you through every move. “This is not only cost-effective,” says Smith, “but also allows for endless customization.” Plus, adding unique pieces you created may help you feel a little more at home.

“Add decorative tassels to the corners of curtains or on furniture corners, like sofa arms or throw pillows,” says Ira Lysa, a professional designer who’s founded brands including Imperial Alterations and Ira's Bridal Studio in Hoboken, New Jersey. This addition will help pieces feel more expensive. These tassels are made of a lustrous gold fabric that sparkles and shines; use them to easily embellish any space in seconds.

Keep track of your keys with these vintage-style hooks, which you can hang in your entryway. According to Lysa, “These [hooks] can be functional and decorative but help create a small accent that leads the visitor's view toward a polished, high-end appearance.” You can also use them for coats, purses, and umbrellas — they're made of durable aluminum and hold up to 25 pounds each.

Bring out your inner Daphne Bridgerton with scented drawer liners like these, which Lysa is a fan of. “Besides keeping your clothes fresh,” says Lysa, “these liners emit a rich, indulgent fragrance throughout the space.” Infused with high-quality French fragrance oils, you can get them in multiple scent profiles. Plus, their delicate damask print adds an elegant flair to your dresser.

If you don’t feel like taking care of real ones, these artificial plants will do the trick. Lysa’s pro tip? “Go for the ones that look so real — like succulents or ferns — to add a pop of greenery and freshness to any room.” These, which resemble rosemary, eucalyptus, and two succulents, are small and lightweight for easy decorating. Plus, their sturdy pots look amazing on your desk or counter.

Lysa is a fan of decorative books that can help create “a refined, cultured atmosphere”. This display is made with high-quality paper with colors that pop. According to Lysa, they’ll look “fantastic on shelves or the coffee table.” When you buy, you’ll receive four decorative books, which are so easy to assemble.

Matching your bathroom accessories is a simple way to make your space look so elegant. “Opt for materials such as marble or brushed metal to give them a luxurious feel,” advises Lysa. This accessory set comes with a dispenser, a soap dish, a toothbrush holder, and two tumblers. Each piece is made of high-quality resin and laminated to resist moisture.

Anh Nguyen, product analyst, interior design expert, and the founder of Print My Rugs, knows that one simple accessory can transform your kitchen. “A simple utensil rack mounted near the sink can work wonders,” Nguyen says. “Not only will it free up precious storage space, but seeing your well-used tools on display adds rustic charm and showcases your love of cooking.” This one rotates 360 degrees for easy access, and it holds a little over four pounds at a time.

This eye-catching centerpiece sculpture is a chic conversation starter that turns heads in the best way. According to Nguyen, “the sophisticated stacked design exudes contemporary charm, [but] the real showstopper is the sleek, removable glass ball crystal that catches the eye with its luminous appeal.” At just 10 inches tall, it's a stellar centerpiece for coffee tables, dining rooms, and kitchen counters.

"When it comes to creating a luxurious ambiance on a budget, blackout curtains are an absolute must in my book,” says Nguyen. “Not only do the darker colors like navy expertly block out harsh sunlight for those indulgent weekend sleep-ins or cozy afternoon naps, but the blackout lining also helps insulate against outdoor temperatures." And, that means they have the potential to lower your energy bill. Their sleek metal grommets are so easy to hang on most curtain rods.

"Paying attention to small details elevates design,” says Nguyen. “Try upgrading basics like air vents with a decorative cover [...]” These magnetic floor vent covers can prevent small stuff from slipping through the cracks. Their fine mesh filters will catch jewelry, keys, and other essentials, so you won't lose the things you need. With their powerful magnets, all you have to do is place them over your vents, and you're good to go.

Joyce Huston, Lead Interior Designer & Co-founder at Decorilla Online Interior Design, loves using risers to (literally) elevate a bedroom. “This small change made the room feel way more spacious and high-end. The key is to find ones that will blend seamlessly with your furniture and your room,” Huston notes. With their nonslip rubber soles, they’ll keep furniture from slipping or sliding. Use them to elevate your bed, sofa, or dresser, and stack them on top of one another to customize their height.

These woven baskets are a smart storage solution since they’re both elegant and effective. “Adding woven baskets is the perfect way to add texture. They are perfect for storage and will also add a natural element,” Huston notes. These are woven with water hyacinth, an eco-friendly material, and they nest into one another when they’re not in use. That way, you can declutter while you decorate.

Huston is an avid fan of chic vases; “In my house,” she says, “I have some incredible vases that look just like high-end ceramic pieces, but they are much more affordable.” This ceramic vase set is a great way to achieve the same look, while simultaneously showing off your favorite plants or flowers. Both pieces in this set are handmade from high-quality clay, so you can keep them as centerpieces for years to come.

"Decorate your walkway with different stones to give it a whimsical and natural feel,” advises Priyanshi Jain, interior designer and founder of Pixels and Spaces. These river rock mats, which are lightly polished and so smooth, are a good start in making your outdoor space feel like a magical forest. With their durable PVC backing, they allow soil to settle between stones, and they’ll outlast any weather conditions.

“Elevate the look of your living area by placing globe terrariums filled with sand, stones, and decorative trinkets,” suggests Jain. These terrariums are a great way to put a piece of the natural world into your space. Their sturdy glass is crystal clear, so you can easily see what you’ve chosen to put inside. Since they won’t fade from sunlight and they’re water-resistant, you can keep them by the window for a charming detail. According to Jain, “These small globes can last for years if taken care of properly.”

"Replacing outdated or discolored switch plates and outlet covers with new ones can freshen up the appearance of any room,” says Amber Mundy, interior designer and home improvement specialist at Build and Renovate. These decorative wall plates are made with bamboo fiber, and their sturdy material is odorless and waterproof. You'll appreciate their smooth, glossy finish, which adds polish and shine to any room, and their rounded edges, which collect minimal dust.

For an easy upgrade that’s cost-effective and low-commitment, try these crystal doorknobs. According to Mundy, “Replacing old [doorknobs] with new, stylish ones can modernize the look of your doors.” Their privacy function allows you to lock from the inside, no keys needed. With their textured crystal design, they look stunning in the light. Plus, they’re not a big project to take on. “This quick fix can be done in minutes and adds a polished touch to your home,” Mundy notes.