12 Things That Make a Home Look Cheaper Than Intended

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No one intentionally aims for the “cheap” look when decorating their home, but it happens more often than we’d like to admit. Creating a stylish home is like cooking up a gourmet meal. It takes the right ingredients, a sprinkle of creativity, and maybe a dash of flair.

The decor missteps and traps that can make your space look like a yard sale gone wrong can be tricky to negotiate if you don’t have experience. Your furniture and decor should elevate your home, not drag it down. You wouldn’t wear a shoddy suit to a fancy dinner, so why settle for the wrong rug in your living room?

Here are some classic decor faux pas that can leave your home looking more thrift store than trendy.

1. Cheap or Damaged Rugs

A good rug can really be the cherry on top of your decor sundae. But if your rug feels more “tired old doormat” than a “stylish statement piece,” it might be time to rethink your choice.

A worn-out, stained, or simply too-small rug can bring down the whole mood of a room, like a bad joke at a dinner party. When choosing a rug, look for one that adds warmth and ties your furniture together, making everything feel cozy rather than like a sad afterthought.

2. Poor Lighting Choices

Bad lighting is likely one of the major reasons we no longer live in caves. If you rely solely on that glaring overhead light from the ‘80s, your home may feel more like a hospital waiting room than a cozy retreat.

Consider adding stylish lamps and sconces that cast a warm, flattering glow. Natural light during the daylight hours is also essential. Invest in some sheer curtains and let the sunshine brighten your space and lift your spirits.

3. Cluttered Surfaces

If your surfaces look like they’re auditioning for a hoarding reality show, it’s time to declutter. Clutter can turn even the classiest decor into a chaotic mess. Straighten up and organize those countertops, bathroom cabinets, and tables to give your beloved knick-knacks a chance to shine.

Embrace smart storage solutions to keep things tidy. Baskets, stylish boxes, or cute containers can hide the odds and ends while looking fab. You want your guests to admire your style, not wonder if they should call for a cleanup crew.

4. Outdated Hardware

Those basic doorknobs and drawer pulls might not be winning any design awards. Outdated hardware can make even the fanciest cabinets look like they came from a thrift store clearance rack.

Why not swap out those builder-grade fixtures for something a bit more stylish? Go for finishes that match your decor style, and watch as your home transforms from drab to fab in no time. Just because something is functional doesn’t mean it shouldn’t also be fabulous.

5. Mismatched or Cheap Window Treatments

Window treatments are like the curtains on your home’s stage, and if they’re cheap or mismatched, they might steal the show for all the wrong reasons. Bare windows or flimsy blinds can give your space a half-finished look.

Utilize sheer blinds to let daylight through during the day, giving your space an open, breezy feel. Also, consider installing draping blinds made of statement material to frame your windows and complement the room’s style.

6. Matchy-Matchy Decor

While a cohesive theme can add character to your home, you don’t want to go overboard. Too many matching pieces can dull down your unique style. Mix and match your decor for a curated look that feels fresh and personalized.

Blend various styles and textures to keep things interesting. When done right, your home will reflect your personality and make your space feel alive.

7. Inexpensive Art and Decorations

Art gives your home a personalized touch, so don’t settle for something that looks like a bad hand-me-down. Cheap prints and generic decorations can easily make your place feel less luxurious.

Select art that speaks to you. Whether crafted by local artists or discovered in charming thrift shops, art doesn’t have to break the bank. Thoughtfully selected and placed art can make your space feel unique and provide talking points for guests.

8. Overly Bright Paint Colors

Bright paint colors can definitely make a bold statement, but using them too much might turn your home into a carnival. Unless you’re going for a funhouse vibe, try adding pops of color strategically instead of going all out.

Muted shades create a welcoming atmosphere, letting your decor shine. Pairing bold colors with neutrals keeps things balanced and stylish. You can easily transform your space from chaotic to chic with the right palette.

9. Outdated Furniture

Are you still hanging onto that old couch that has seen better days? It might be time to let it go. Consider refreshing your look with new pieces or even reupholstering what you have to breathe new life into it.

When shopping for new items, focus on quality and comfort. Investing in a few statement pieces can create an upscale look while still keeping it relaxed.

10. Low-quality Linens and Towels

When was the last time you treated yourself to some nice linens? Cheap, scratchy sheets and faded towels can leave you feeling like you’re camping instead of luxuriating at home.

Upgrade your linens for comfort and elegance to make your space feel more like a five-star hotel. Coordinating colors and textures adds an extra layer of sophistication and helps tie your interior design choices together.

11. Cheap Flooring

Let’s not underestimate the importance of flooring—cheap laminate or tired carpets can derail the look of even the best-decorated spaces. Investing in quality flooring enhances both aesthetics and comfort, creating a solid foundation for your design.

The right flooring, whether hardwood, tile, or stylish vinyl, can add warmth and texture to your home. A thoughtfully chosen floor transforms your space into an attractive canvas that showcases your decor beautifully.

12. Too Much DIY Furniture

We love a good DIY project, but there’s no need to fill your home with homemade furniture. While creativity is great, excessive DIY or self-repairs can create a cluttered look.

Focus on a few standout pieces that complement high-quality finds. Mixing DIY with store-bought treasures strikes the perfect balance.

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