21 Cool Things Under $20 That’ll Make Your Home Look More Expensive

Want to transform your home without breaking the bank? Small changes can make a huge difference in how upscale your space feels.

I’ve rounded up 21 affordable items that add instant luxury to any room.

These budget-friendly finds will fool visitors into thinking you splurged on a designer makeover!

1. Velvet Throw Pillow Covers

Velvet instantly adds a touch of luxury to any sofa or bed. The rich texture catches light beautifully, creating depth and dimension in your living space.

I transformed my plain couch with jewel-toned velvet covers in under five minutes. Guests always ask if they’re from a high-end store! The zipper closures make them easy to swap seasonally try emerald green for winter and blush pink for spring.

For maximum impact, mix different sizes and complementary colors rather than matching sets. This creates a curated, designer-approved look that appears collected over time rather than purchased all at once.

2. Gold-Tone Cabinet Handles

Swapping out basic cabinet hardware might be the fastest kitchen upgrade ever. Gold-tone handles instantly elevate boring cabinets and drawers with minimal effort.

The warm metallic finish adds sophistication to even the most budget-friendly cabinetry. I replaced my standard silver pulls with sleek brass ones last year, and my kitchen suddenly looked custom-designed.

Hardware is like jewelry for your furniture – it doesn’t need to be expensive to make a statement. Choose simple, modern shapes for a timeless look. The best part? You can install them yourself in an afternoon with just a screwdriver and measuring tape.

3. Faux Marble Contact Paper

This affordable miracle worker transforms tired surfaces into stunning statement pieces. When I covered my old laminate countertop, friends couldn’t believe it wasn’t real stone!

Application requires patience but pays off enormously. The key is working slowly with a credit card to smooth bubbles as you go. Perfect for rental apartments where permanent changes aren’t allowed.

Beyond countertops, try lining shelves, covering side tables, or creating a luxe backsplash. The vinyl material is water-resistant and wipes clean easily. For the most realistic look, choose patterns with subtle veining rather than dramatic swirls that scream “fake.”

4. Scented Soy Candles in Glass Jars

Nothing creates ambiance like the warm glow of candles throughout a home. Soy candles burn cleaner than paraffin ones, making them healthier for your space.

The simple glass containers look elegant on coffee tables, mantels, and bathroom counters. I keep several unscented ones for dinner parties they cast a flattering light that makes everyone look their best!

When selecting scents, opt for sophisticated fragrances like fig, sandalwood, or linen rather than overly sweet options. Group candles in odd numbers (3 or 5) at varying heights for a styled vignette that looks straight out of a magazine spread. This simple trick creates instant atmosphere.

5. Linen or Cotton Tea Towels

Crisp, natural fiber towels hanging from your oven door instantly upgrade your kitchen’s appearance. The textured fabric adds warmth and character to what’s often the hardest-working room in the house.

I switched from microfiber to linen last year and was amazed at how much more polished my kitchen looked. Stripe patterns or subtle embroidery details elevate the look further without adding cost.

These workhorses are both beautiful and practical they actually improve with washing and develop a lovely worn-in quality over time. Hang them asymmetrically or casually draped rather than perfectly centered for that effortless, lived-in luxury that expensive homes often have.

6. Matte Black Door Knobs

If your home still has those standard brass doorknobs from decades past, this small change creates major impact. Matte black hardware instantly modernizes any space with minimal effort.

The sleek finish works with virtually any decor style from farmhouse to industrial to mid-century. When I updated our interior doors, visitors immediately noticed the difference without knowing exactly what had changed.

Installation takes about five minutes per door with just a screwdriver. For maximum effect, swap out all knobs in a single area rather than mixing finishes. This creates a cohesive look that suggests intentional design rather than piecemeal updates. The contrast against white doors is especially striking.

7. Minimalist Wall Prints

Bare walls scream “temporary living situation.” Abstract line drawings and minimalist prints add sophistication without overwhelming your space or your budget.

The key is choosing simple designs with plenty of negative space. Black and white prints work especially well since they coordinate with any color scheme. I found gorgeous downloadable options on Etsy for just a few dollars, then printed them at home.

For a high-end gallery look, mount prints in simple frames with generous mats. The extra white space creates visual impact and makes inexpensive art look much more valuable. Group similar styles together rather than hanging random pieces throughout your home for a more curated, intentional appearance.

8. Glass Soap Dispensers

Ditching plastic bottles instantly elevates bathroom and kitchen sinks. Clear or amber glass dispensers with simple pumps create a spa-like atmosphere in even the most basic spaces.

This tiny upgrade makes a surprising difference in how polished your home feels. I filled mine with color-coordinated soaps that complement my decor the amber dispensers with creamy beige hand soap look particularly luxurious.

Add a matching set for lotion or dish soap to complete the look. The uniform containers create visual calm compared to the chaos of mismatched product bottles. This works especially well in small bathrooms where every detail is noticeable. For extra style points, look for dispensers with minimal labeling or none at all.

9. Decorative Bookends

Books stacked haphazardly on shelves look messy, not luxurious. Stylish bookends transform random piles into intentional displays that showcase both your collection and your taste.

Marble, concrete, or metallic finishes deliver the biggest visual impact per dollar. My concrete geometric bookends cost just $15 but look identical to the designer versions selling for five times as much.

Use them to create small, organized groupings rather than trying to corral entire shelves. This styled approach feels more deliberate and high-end. Alternate horizontal and vertical book arrangements between the bookends for a designer-approved display. The organized look signals attention to detail a hallmark of expensive homes.

10. LED Puck Lights for Shelves

Strategic lighting separates amateur decorating from professional design. Battery-operated LED puck lights create dramatic spotlighting effects without expensive electrical work.

I installed these under kitchen cabinets and inside bookshelves to highlight decorative objects. The warm glow transforms ordinary items into gallery-worthy displays. Many options include remote controls or touch activation for easy operation.

The trick is placing them strategically rather than lighting everything evenly. Highlight your best pieces or create depth by illuminating the back of shelves. This layered lighting approach is a designer secret that makes spaces feel more considered and upscale. The small size makes them nearly invisible during daylight hours.

11. Woven Storage Baskets

Visible clutter instantly cheapens any room, no matter how nice your furniture. Natural fiber baskets hide everyday items while adding texture and warmth to your decor.

The woven materials bring an organic element that softens modern spaces and complements traditional ones. I use matching sets in my living room for blankets, in the bathroom for toiletries, and in the entryway for shoes and bags.

For the most elevated look, choose baskets in natural tones rather than bright colors or patterns. The neutral palette creates cohesion throughout your home. This simple organization system not only looks expensive but actually makes daily life easier a win-win for both aesthetics and functionality.

12. Framed Art Prints

Empty walls make spaces feel unfinished and temporary. Framed prints add personality and polish to any room without the investment of original artwork.

The frame makes all the difference between college-dorm decor and sophisticated design. I found affordable botanical prints online and paired them with simple black frames for a classic look that works in any room.

When selecting images, consider black and white photography for timeless appeal or botanical illustrations for a traditional vibe. The subject matter should complement your existing decor rather than competing with it. For maximum impact, hang prints at eye level rather than too high a common mistake that instantly reveals amateur decorating.

13. Indoor Potted Succulents

Living plants breathe life into spaces and signal a well-maintained home. Succulents offer the perfect low-maintenance option for instant greenery with minimal effort.

Their architectural shapes create natural sculpture that draws the eye and adds dimension to flat surfaces. I cluster mine in odd numbers on coffee tables, windowsills, and bathroom counters for maximum impact.

For a designer look, transfer store-bought plants into more attractive pots – think simple ceramic, concrete, or terra cotta vessels rather than plastic containers. White, black, or natural clay colors create the most sophisticated presentation. This tiny upgrade transforms $3 plants into statement pieces that look like they came from specialty boutiques.

14. Elegant Ceramic Vases

Fresh flowers feel like a luxury, but their impact depends largely on what holds them. Simple ceramic vases in neutral tones elevate even supermarket blooms into sophisticated displays.

The matte finishes and organic shapes of handmade-looking ceramics add artisanal character to any surface. My collection includes varying heights that work with different flower types tall cylinders for single stems and wider bowls for fuller arrangements.

White, cream, and earthy tones create the most versatile collection. Group several empty vases together as a still life when flowers aren’t available. This creates an intentional display rather than lonely-looking containers. The textural contrast between smooth ceramics and delicate blooms creates visual interest that draws attention.

15. Clear Drawer Organizers

Organization is the ultimate luxury it signals both time and attention invested in your space. Clear acrylic organizers transform chaotic drawers into boutique-worthy displays.

The transparent material creates a clean, minimal aesthetic while making everything visible at a glance. I used these in my bathroom drawers first, then added them to my kitchen and desk after seeing the dramatic difference.

Unlike plastic bins, acrylic has a substantial weight and crystal-clear appearance that feels premium. The compartmentalized design prevents items from shifting when drawers open and close. This hidden organization creates a sense of calm throughout your home everything has a place, eliminating the stress of searching for items hidden in jumbled drawers.

16. Table Runners with Texture

Bare tables look unfinished, while full tablecloths can feel formal or dated. Textured table runners add dimension and protection without overwhelming your furniture.

The linear placement draws the eye across the table, making rooms feel larger and more intentionally designed. I chose a neutral linen runner that works year-round, then layer seasonal decor on top for different occasions.

Natural materials like cotton, jute, or linen provide the most sophisticated look. The subtle texture adds visual interest even without additional decor. For everyday elegance, center a runner on dining tables or console tables, then add a simple bowl or plant. This creates a finished look with minimal effort – perfect for maintaining that put-together appearance between deeper cleaning sessions.

17. Stylish Coasters

Protecting surfaces shows attention to detail a hallmark of well-designed homes. Stylish coasters prevent damage while adding decorative elements to tables and counters.

Materials make all the difference between basic and beautiful. Natural stone, ceramic, or leather options look substantially more expensive than their price tags suggest. My marble coasters cost less than $15 but receive constant compliments from guests.

Arrange them in a neat stack or fanned display when not in use rather than hiding them away. This creates an intentional vignette that enhances your decor. The small size makes coasters an easy way to introduce luxury materials like marble, agate, or brass without major investment. They’re functional art that elevates everyday moments.

18. Faux Fur Cushion Covers

Texture transforms basic furniture into inviting retreats. Faux fur cushion covers add instant warmth and luxury to chairs, beds, and sofas without the designer price tag.

The plush material catches light beautifully, creating depth and dimension in any room. I added two cream-colored covers to my neutral sofa, and the contrast immediately made my living room feel more layered and intentional.

Choose natural-looking colors like ivory, gray, or taupe rather than bright hues or obviously fake patterns. The subtle sheen and varied pile height of quality faux fur mimics the real thing convincingly. This tactile element invites touch and creates comfort essential qualities in homes that feel both luxurious and welcoming rather than just visually impressive.

19. Chic Incense Holders

Scent creates atmosphere instantly, and stylish incense holders turn this sensory experience into visual art. Modern ceramic, stone, or brass holders look sculptural even when not in use.

Unlike plastic or wooden versions, premium-material holders elevate this simple ritual into a design statement. My concrete incense holder became an unexpected conversation piece on my coffee table guests always ask where I found it.

Look for minimalist designs that catch ash neatly without being bulky. The clean lines and substantial weight of stone or ceramic versions feel much more expensive than their actual cost. This small object adds a thoughtful, sensory dimension to your space that signals attention to all aspects of the home environment – a truly luxurious approach.

20. Acrylic Makeup or Desk Organizers

Visible clutter instantly diminishes the perceived value of any space. Acrylic organizers transform messy surfaces into orderly displays that showcase your items beautifully.

The crystal-clear material creates a weightless, modern aesthetic that works with any color scheme. I use these on my vanity for makeup and on my desk for office supplies both areas look dramatically more polished as a result.

Unlike colored plastic organizers that call attention to themselves, clear acrylic lets your items become the focus. The transparent design also makes finding things easier, eliminating frustrating searches. For maximum impact, choose organizers with varying compartment sizes rather than uniform divisions. This customized approach accommodates different-sized items while maintaining a cohesive, intentional appearance.

21. Floating Wall Shelves

Wall-mounted shelving adds architectural interest while maximizing space. Simple floating shelves create display opportunities without the bulk of traditional bookcases.

The clean lines and minimal hardware create a custom built-in look for a fraction of the price. I installed a pair of white shelves above my desk to display books and small plants the vertical dimension immediately made my workspace feel more designed.

For the most expensive look, choose shelves with hidden mounting hardware rather than visible brackets. This creates the illusion that they’re seamlessly emerging from the wall. Group shelves in asymmetrical arrangements rather than perfectly aligned rows for a more artistic, intentional appearance. This small addition proves that thoughtful design doesn’t require massive renovation.