LUXURY ON A BUDGET: AFFORDABLE WAYS TO ADD ELEGANCE TO YOUR HOME
Affordable luxury, as irresistible as it sounds seems hard to achieve. Infusing your home with curated and exclusive luxurious décor and going beyond the mere functional, paves the way to the sleek finesse of a profoundly unique space.
Here are a few quick tips that will spark your imagination to create a modern, rare and versatile living space for you and your loved ones:
Less is More
Sounds Clichéd. Isn’t it? But buying less and focusing on quality is the essence of a luxurious space. “Invest in state-of-the-art furniture pieces designed to evoke a sense of stunning visuals. An immersive element in your house, for instance, a couch upholstered in a rich fabric or a dining table in a darker wooden tone or topped with a serene stone adds an ethnic vibe and makes the place traditional yet timeless. Rest of the furniture pieces can complement the hero piece to let the onlookers playfully peak from the nooks and corners of your house,” says Pallavi Sethi, Co-Founder, Indeva Furniture Design.
Define Your Aesthetic
Varsha and Mangala, Co-founders, Vaasa, says “Begin by clarifying the aesthetic you aim to achieve. Whether blending Indian and European design philosophies for a minimalist approach or infusing other cultural influences, establishing a clear vision guides your design journey.”
Clutter is a Big No
Ever wondered what makes a place whimsical? A clean and well-organized space speaks of innate opulence. Lay emphasis on strategizing your storage needs. Invest in a classic teal cabinetry with wooden shelving to store all the items that pile up. Sethi shares, “A stunning storage unit in a warm wooden tone or a wooden chest with an antique door is perfect for all essential items such as stationary or keys. Storage units or chests can be topped with coffee table books or indoor plants to add character and give a luxurious vibe to the setting.”
Gold is Glamour
Metallic accents, such shades of gold or subtle silver, brass look indulgent. Just imagine a room surrounded by cascades of gold will give you a majestic and beautiful feel. Metallic accents in elements such as knobs, faucets and cabinet handles is an extension of the design vocabulary.
Focus on Timeless Pieces
Invest in furniture that stands the test of time, radiating elegance beyond fleeting trends. Varsha and Mangala suggest, “Consider classic choices like a Chesterfield couch draped in hand-dyed European leather or a wingback armchair for your library. Explore options such as live-edge tables, stylish bar units, and sleek consoles to anchor your decor with enduring style.”
Natural light for an earthy charm
Carve out a nature-inspired space where luxury is expressed in simplicity through openings, windows and voids. Sethi explains, “Focus on playing the light and shadow game right. Light can elevate and transform a space. Allow natural light to pirouette through your space by including French windows. Consulting a professional is advisable to create a captivating play of light and experience serenity of the nature. French windows seamlessly connect your home with the outside. Consider darker wood tones for a breathtaking view or keep the color palette neutral for a cozy look.”
Vintage Wall
You can create an expensive looking space with wall enhancements and artworks. Wall paneling creates an impact and makes a bold statement. Sethi adds, “You may grace the living room wall with warm wood panels and install a peel-and-stick wallpaper to add sophistication to your space. Artworks do form a rich backdrop but they can eat up half of your budget, instead you may opt for smaller artworks that do not come with a hefty price tag.” Looking for another viable alternative? Consider adding mirrors for more dimension, drama and volume to a room. You need to pick a mirror with modest proportions, keeping it sleek or bold or go ornate, mirror décor possibilities are truly endless.
Add Textures, Layers, Freshness
Textures elevate a space. Mixing materials – hanging drapery in velvet, accent cushions, and throws in cotton or plain linens evoke a luxe appeal. Flourish your space with happiness and warmth with fresh flowers and plants. Potted greenery displayed in a tall vase or a bouquet of white lilies gracing a countertop instantly enliven your living space. Snake plants or succulents are low-maintenance alternatives to add energy to any room.
Opt for High-Quality Materials
Prioritize furniture crafted from premium materials like solid wood, metal, or durable upholstery fabrics. Not only do these choices enhance aesthetic appeal, but they also ensure the longevity of your furnishings. Choose responsibly sourced materials such as acacia, rubber, and mango wood, along with metals like brass, cast iron, and cast aluminum, for sustainability and durability.
Embrace Neutral Tones
“Neutral color palettes inherently exude sophistication and timelessness. Furnish your space with pieces in shades of white, beige, gray, or muted tones, creating a versatile canvas that effortlessly adapts to evolving accents and accessories,” share Varsha and Mangala.