Through my own journey of turning an empty apartment into a luxurious and comfortable home, I learned that creating a luxurious experience doesn't rely on expensive items. After months of researching, shopping, and learning, I developed a theory of what elements actually create a unified and luxurious atmosphere in a space. By focusing on these specific elements and following a step-by-step guide, anyone can create a beautiful and budget-friendly home.
1. Harmony of Colours - Neutrals with high contrast and warm tones create a luxurious and cohesive atmosphere. Incorporating warm earthy tones and deep moody tones can also add depth to the space. Consider using accent colours sparingly to make a bold statement, such as emerald green or amber. Make sure to spread these colours throughout different rooms to tie your entire home together for a harmonious feel.
2. Maximum Comfort, Functionality & Practicality - Take time to think about what is important to you. Perhaps it’s a big U-shaped black couch where you can sit, lie down or stretch your legs. Now, this idea might not be commonly seen on Pinterest or Instagram, but that shouldn’t discourage you from making choices that are right for you and your home. Always prioritize your comfort and functionality before being influenced by what you see online. Remember, maximum comfort is one of the most important definitions of luxury and so your goal should be to achieve that. Feel free to choose your own sofa colour, layout, and the number of pillows on your bed all the while thinking about what is functional and practical for you. And don’t forget to take advantage of using thick blankets, cosy cushions and soft linens to create maximum comfort for yourself.
3. High-Quality Materials - Anything you sit on, lay on, sleep on and step on such as bedding, couch, chairs, and rugs should be lined with a high-quality material for maximum comfort and a luxurious feel. Look for materials such as velvet, high-quality cotton, and natural fibers like wool or silk (for rugs) that will add a touch of luxury to your space. These materials will not only look and feel better, but they will also last longer and save you money in the long run.
4. Decor Items - No space is complete without decor items. They elevate and enhance the beauty of any room and bring life to it. The trick is to know where to stop. You don’t want to over-decorate your space and make it look cluttered or overwhelming. The key to successful decorating is to strike a balance between adding enough decor to make the space feel cosy and personal while also leaving enough open space to allow the eye to rest and appreciate the beauty of each piece. Additionally, choosing decor items that complement the overall style and colour scheme of the room can create a cohesive and polished look. Think about adding a nice vase with a bouquet of fresh flowers, a faux plant in the corner, artwork on the walls, and some coffee table books.
5. Ambient Lighting - The right lighting can make all the difference in creating a luxurious atmosphere. Consider using a combination of natural light during the day and warm artificial lighting in the evening to create a comfortable and inviting feel. Using candles is also a great way to create a warm and cosy atmosphere. Make sure to use multiple sources of lighting in each room to create depth and dimension. A great tip is to invest in dimmable bulbs. You won't regret it!
6. Rich Fragrance - A beautiful scent can elevate the overall atmosphere of a space. Use scented candles, diffusers, and/or room sprays that create a sense of luxury and relaxation. Choose fragrances that are not too overpowering and are appropriate for the space. For example, lavender or vanilla scents are great for the bedroom, while citrus, floral or woody scents work well in the living room or kitchen.
7. Neatness - Lastly, a clean and organized space is essential for creating a luxurious atmosphere. Make sure to keep clutter to a minimum and invest in storage solutions to keep items out of sight. A neat and tidy space will not only look better but will also create a sense of calm and serenity.
By focusing on these 7 elements, anyone can create a luxurious and comfortable home without breaking the bank. Remember to prioritize your own comfort and functionality, incorporate high-quality materials, choose decor items carefully, create a warm and inviting atmosphere with lighting and fragrance, and keep your space neat and organized. With these tips in mind, you can transform any space into a beautiful and budget-friendly oasis.
