MANY homeowners are unknowingly making a mistake that ages their property, according to an interior designer.
She shared her must-know tips for achieving a living space that exudes warmth and luxury.
Molly Woodward-Moor is an interior designer and creative director at Stone Superstore, a UK-based company specializing in home improvement supplies.
Speaking to The US Sun, he revealed the secret to making houses look expensive.
EMBRACE ORIGINALITY
Woodward-Moor warned against adopting cheap or fashionable decorations, such as drab colors.
“Decor items that are too trendy can go out of style quickly, which can make your home look dated faster,” she said.
“Overusing a single material or color throughout your home can also make it look drab and boring.
“Mixing materials and incorporating a balanced color palette adds depth and interest to your space.”
He said “everything beige” is currently a popular interior trend, but it should be combined with brass accents, rich wood and vibrant greenery to create a warm space.
“Artificial plants can make a room look cheap if they are of low quality, as they can detract from the overall aesthetic of a room,” she said.
He said it’s best to opt for a mix of real and artificial plants to create a “dynamic” environment.
Having the right plants is equally important outside.
“Many people forget that the outside of their home sets the tone for what’s inside,” he said.
“Neglecting front yard, driveway or exterior maintenance can make even a well-decorated interior look less impressive.
“Simple improvements like maintaining the lawn, keeping pavers clean, updating or painting the front door, and adding some vibrant plants can greatly increase curb appeal.”
FABULOUS APARTMENTS
Woodward-Moor said making smart decorating decisions and investing in cost-effective materials is the best way to make a home look expensive on a limited budget.
He said that “from the lighting to the flooring, every detail counts” to achieve a luxurious feel.
“A key element to achieving an expensive aesthetic on a limited budget is one of the largest surfaces in your home: the floor,” he said.
“While wood and marble flooring may be out of the budget for many, luxury vinyl tile (LVT) offers a cost-effective alternative without compromising style or quality.
“LVT flooring mimics the look of natural materials like wood, concrete or marble, but at a fraction of the cost.”
Today, they are “incredibly realistic,” he noted, and suggests opting for ones that look like walnut, oak or marble.
Vintage items can add character and charm to your home.
Molly Woodward-Moor
“Choose planks with realistic wood grain patterns, rich colors and subtle variations to create an authentic look that replicates the warmth and elegance of hardwood floors.”
She said LVT floors are water, scratch and stain resistant, unlike hardwood.
This makes it the best option for “high-traffic areas and spaces prone to spills or moisture.”
OLD ACCESSORIES
Woodward-Moor said “quality over quantity” should be the focus when adding furniture and accessories.
“Build a collection of timeless pieces over time, with clean lines and classic silhouettes that add a sense of sophistication,” he said.
He said old furniture from antique stores and online markets can be “transformed” with a fresh coat of paint or new upholstery.
“Vintage items can add character and charm to your home,” she said.
“If you have a good eye, you can find unique pieces that enhance your living space without draining your wallet.”
He added that creating the mood of your home can be achieved “instantly” with the right lighting.
“To make your interior spaces feel luxurious, use smaller sources of soft, warm light and different heights through table lamps, floor lamps and candles to create a ‘layered’ look that feels very considered,” she said. .
