Luxury for Less: Top Tips From a Pro Designer

luxury bathroom white tile and cabinetry

With rising price tags and a bigger focus on budgeting for larger-scale remodels, renos, and home updates, your decor is one area where you can still have a little fun. It’s something you can easily swap out, or even splurge on, when you’re craving a change.

But here’s the good news: you don’t need to spend a fortune to get that high-end, designer feel. These simple swaps are easy to do today, and trust me, they make a huge difference.

Curate your dining room with these candle styling tips

plates on wall in dining room, 4 lit candles, chandelier

In the dining room, candles are your secret weapon. Faux candles have come such a long way in creating a natural flicker and glow — they totally mimic the real thing now. Go for large pillar holders in different heights as they instantly add presence.

Love a thin taper candle? Don’t stop at two – group them in bunches for that rich, layered look. Here’s a quick tip: style them on a mirrored tray as it adds sparkle and makes the whole thing feel way more expensive!

Charlize Mirror Tray from Urban Barn

Charlize Mirror Tray from Urban Barn

For a touch of luxury, consider splurging on a decorative tray – prices typically range from $50 to $355+ CAD.

When it comes to faux candles, budget-friendly options are available from $25 to $40 CAD for a set of 3 to 6, or $5 to $25 CAD per candle. If you’re looking to elevate your space with higher-end pieces, premium faux candles can range from $50 to $100+ CAD per candle or set.

As featured on Breakfast Television, the curated candle sets shown below are priced between $74 and $179 CAD.

candles from Pottery Barn and Amazon

Left: Splurge! $375 (set of 4) at Pottery Barn. Right: Save. $23–$50 at Amazon.

To save or splurge?

 

Go luxe with pillow styling

Pillows make such a difference. If you’ve got foam-filled ones, ditch them. They flatten and just feel… meh.

living room sofa with gold pillows 3 photos

Instead, go for feather inserts. They feel better, fluff better, and just look richer. Check for a hidden zipper — it’s a tiny detail, but it screams quality.

Can you spot the difference between these two pillows?

pillows

Left: Splurge! $195 at ELTE. Right: Save. $25 at HomeSense.

Feather-insert pillows typically range from $30–40 CAD, and foam-inserts are typically around $10. Make sure to check the label for sustainable practices. Check out this blog post on Pillow Inserts 101!

Bathroom accessory upgrades for a boutique style

white bathroom countertops flower, hand towels

This is where you can easily create that spa-like, boutique vibe. Swap out plastic soap bottles for glass or metal pumps. It’s such a quick way to elevate your daily routine. Style everything in a small glass or mirrored tray, and add a faux flower. It’s simple but so effective!

soap dispensers

Left: Save. $35 at Linen Chest. Right: Splurge! $325 at ELTE.

On a budget? Stylish soap dispensers start around $14 to $35 CAD. Feeling indulgent? Luxury options can reach $300+ CAD, perfect for adding a high-end touch to your space.

Add these kitchen accessories for a high-end feel

kitchen with 3 stools two white lights

Even the most practical things in your kitchen can be elevated. Consider adding tall, colourful salt and pepper mills to build instant character in the kitchen.

pepper mills

Left: Investment Piece – Aronas Pepper Mill in black. Right: Cost-conscious Alternative – DeroTeno Salt and Pepper Grinder Set with Tray.

Investment Piece: Bloomingville Aronas Pepper Mill, Black, Cost-conscious Alternative: DeroTeno Salt and Pepper Grinder Set with Tray

A little salt cellar with a spoon? So chic! Cost-conscious and actually super functional. For marble, low cost options can range from $30-55 CAD. Looking to make a statement with this item in your kitchen? You could be looking to pay $55-200+.

Radicaln Marble Salt Cellar White

As seen on Breakfast Television: Radicaln Marble Salt Cellar

Don’t just leave out one cutting board. Layer a few in different sizes and tones to make the counter feel more curated and styled.

All of these are such easy updates, and you don’t need to spend a fortune. It’s about making smart, intentional choices and styling with that designer mindset. Little things go a long way.

black kitchen and cutting boards

Check out my latest segment on Breakfast Television on Luxury Items for Less!

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