29 DIY Home Improvements That Make Your Pretty House Look Expensive

Transforming your home from “nice” to luxurious doesn’t have to require a major renovation or hiring an expensive interior designer. With a little creativity, effort, and DIY know-how, you can elevate the style and value of your home.

Whether you’re looking to update your living room, kitchen, or bathroom, these 29 DIY home improvements will help your house look more expensive without breaking the bank.

1. Upgrade Cabinet Hardware

One of the easiest and most impactful ways to elevate a room is by updating the cabinet hardware. Swap out standard knobs and handles for brushed gold, matte black, or crystal options to add a touch of elegance and luxury to your kitchen or bathroom.

This simple upgrade makes a significant difference in the overall look of your cabinetry and makes your kitchen feel like a designer space.

2. Install Crown Molding

Crown molding is often associated with high-end homes, but installing it yourself is a straightforward DIY project. Whether in your living room or bedroom, crown molding can add a touch of sophistication and make ceilings look higher. Choose a classic, simple design or go for an ornate style for added drama.

3. Add a Statement Light Fixture

Lighting plays a major role in how expensive a home feels. Installing a statement chandelier or an elegant pendant light in your entryway or dining room can elevate the space instantly. Look for affordable alternatives that mimic the look of high-end designs to give your home a sophisticated vibe.

4. Create a Feature Wall with Paint or Wallpaper

Adding an accent wall with bold paint or luxury wallpaper instantly adds drama and depth to any room. Whether you choose deep hues like navy or emerald green, or opt for high-end wallpaper designs like floral prints or geometric patterns, the result will be a more upscale feel.

5. Install Floating Shelves

Floating shelves are a modern and sleek way to store and display items. Install them in your living room, kitchen, or bathroom to create an organized, minimalist look. Use them to display chic decorative objects, books, or plants, and opt for wooden shelves for a more sophisticated feel.

6. Refinish Your Hardwood Floors

If your hardwood floors look worn or outdated, consider refinishing them instead of replacing them. Sanding, staining, and sealing the wood will bring them back to life, giving your home a polished, luxurious appearance. Opt for darker tones like walnut or espresso to achieve a high-end look.

7. Replace Your Front Door

The entry door is one of the first things people notice when they approach your home. A new front door can completely transform the look of your house, making it feel more inviting and upscale. Choose a solid wood or high-quality fiberglass door, and consider adding a new handle or hardware for added elegance.

8. Install a Glass Shower Door

If you want your bathroom to look more high-end, replace an outdated shower curtain or traditional shower doors with glass shower doors. These doors create an open and airy feel while giving your bathroom a luxurious spa-like atmosphere.

9. Add a Backsplash

Adding a backsplash in your kitchen or bathroom is an easy way to elevate the space. Choose high-end materials like marble, subway tiles, or glass for an elegant look. You can even create a backsplash from peel-and-stick tiles if you’re looking for a quick, budget-friendly DIY project.

10. Create a Wine Bar

If you enjoy entertaining, creating a dedicated wine bar area can make your home feel sophisticated. Install floating shelves or a sleek bar cart and stock it with your favorite wines, glasses, and cocktail accessories. The addition of a wine fridge can also elevate the space, adding both functionality and luxury.

11. Install High-End Window Treatments

Upgrade your curtains or blinds to give your home a polished, elegant look. Floor-to-ceiling curtains in neutral tones or luxurious fabrics like velvet or silk can instantly make any room feel more expensive. Roman shades, woven wood blinds, or smart blinds are other excellent options for a more modern feel.

12. Reupholster Old Furniture

Instead of buying new furniture, reupholstering old chairs, couches, or ottomans can create a custom look that feels high-end. Choose rich fabrics such as velvet, linen, or leather for a luxurious touch. Reupholstering is a relatively simple project that can make old pieces look new and stylish.

13. Install Hardwood Stairs

If your home has carpeted stairs, switching to hardwood stairs can instantly elevate the space. Hardwood stairs are not only durable but also add an element of warmth and luxury to your home. You can DIY this project by removing old carpeting and installing new wood treads.

14. Add Molding Around Doors and Windows

Just like crown molding, adding molding around doors and windows can give your home a more expensive look. Use simple wood trim for a traditional style or opt for modern, sleek lines for a contemporary aesthetic. This subtle detail will elevate the architectural appeal of your home.

15. Upgrade Your Kitchen Faucet

If you want to make a big impact in the kitchen, consider upgrading your kitchen faucet to something more modern or stylish. A brushed nickel, matte black, or gold finish faucet can give your sink area an elegant, high-end appearance, especially when paired with a stylish farmhouse sink.

16. Paint Your Front Porch

A fresh coat of paint on your front porch or entryway can give your home an instant curb appeal boost. Opt for a rich, classic color like charcoal gray, navy blue, or white for a sophisticated and welcoming look. Don’t forget to add a beautiful welcome mat to complete the look.

17. Update Your Light Switch Plates

A small but effective change is swapping out your old, basic light switch plates for designer versions made of brass, chrome, or porcelain. These affordable upgrades add a subtle touch of luxury that can make your space look more polished.

18. Create a Vertical Garden

If you’re looking for a way to bring the outdoors inside, consider installing a vertical garden on a blank wall in your home. Use sleek planters or wall-mounted shelves to house your favorite plants and greenery. This addition will create an urban jungle feel, adding both style and freshness to your space.

19. Add a Custom Closet System

Organize your closet with a custom storage solution that not only maximizes space but also looks sleek and modern. Install a walk-in closet system with shelves, drawers, and hanging rods that match the color and style of your room, adding an element of luxury to your bedroom.

20. Upgrade to Smart Home Features

Adding smart home technology can make your home feel more modern and expensive. Install a smart thermostat, security system, or smart lighting to create a tech-savvy environment that is both convenient and sophisticated.

21. Paint Your Front Door a Bold Color

A pop of color on your front door can make your home stand out and look more expensive. Choose a deep, elegant shade like hunter green, navy blue, or burgundy. Adding a stylish door knocker or custom hardware can enhance the overall appearance.

22. Add a Skylight

If your home feels a bit dark or lacks natural light, consider installing a skylight. Not only does this increase the brightness in your space, but it also creates a luxurious, airy feel. Skylights are especially effective in kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas.

23. Re-grout Your Tiles

Over time, the grout in your tiles can discolor or crack, making your bathroom or kitchen look older than it is. Re-grouting your tiles with fresh grout will give the space a cleaner, more polished look. For an extra touch of luxury, use white or gray grout to complement your tiles.

24. Install a Statement Mirror

A large, decorative mirror can make any room appear more spacious and expensive. Look for mirrors with ornate frames, sleek lines, or an unexpected shape to serve as a focal point in your room. A gold-framed mirror in the entryway or a round mirror above your bathroom vanity can elevate the space dramatically.

25. Add Decorative Throw Pillows and Blankets

A small investment in high-quality throw pillows and blankets can instantly make your living room or bedroom feel more luxurious. Choose materials like silk, velvet, or linen in neutral or jewel-toned colors. Layer them on your sofa or bed for an effortlessly chic look.

26. Upgrade Your Flooring with Rugs

An area rug is an easy way to add a pop of style and luxury to any room. Opt for oriental rugs, Persian rugs, or **wool rugs** to add a sophisticated touch.

These types of rugs not only look elegant but also provide warmth and texture to your floors. Place them in high-traffic areas like the living room or hallway for a more polished, finished look.

27. Refinish or Repaint Your Furniture

Refinishing or repainting your furniture can give old, tired pieces a new life. Whether it’s a coffee table, dresser, or sideboard, using a high-quality paint or stain can completely change the vibe of the furniture. Opt for sleek, neutral tones like charcoal, navy, or white, or go for dark wood stains for a more luxurious appearance.

28. Create a Mudroom or Entryway Bench

Adding a mudroom or entryway bench can improve both the functionality and aesthetic of your home. Install hooks for coats, a storage bench for shoes, and baskets for other accessories. This will not only help keep your space organized but also add a touch of luxury to your entryway.

29. DIY Window Seat

A window seat is the ultimate cozy addition that can make any room feel more luxurious. Whether it’s in your living room, bedroom, or even a hallway, a well-designed window seat creates a focal point and adds an element of charm. Upholster the seat with a plush cushion and add some decorative pillows for extra comfort and style.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to spend a fortune to make your home look expensive and elegant. With these 29 DIY home improvements, you can transform your space into a stylish sanctuary without breaking the bank. From upgrading hardware and installing crown molding to adding luxury touches like glass shower doors or smart home features, these changes will increase your home’s visual appeal and make it feel high-end.

By investing time and effort into these projects, you’ll be able to enjoy a luxurious living space that reflects your personal style and tastes—while also increasing your home’s value. Whether it’s a small renovation or a simple decor update, each improvement adds up, creating a home that looks like it came straight out of a design magazine.