Creating a home interior more opulent than the Palace of Versailles can be achieved with a few important steps. Whether you’re looking to create a cozy, inviting atmosphere or luxurious, over-the-top splendor, a few easy and achievable tricks can turn even the most basic abode into an opulent palace.
Planning Your Budget
Once you’ve decided on a plan of action, the first step is to plan your budget. Depending on the scale of your project and desired results, prices for new decor and furniture can quickly add up. Be sure to make a list of items you wish to include and set a realistic budget. With a financial plan in place, you can begin shopping for the elements of your opulent haven.
Selecting Furniture and Fabrics
Now that you’ve allocated your budget, you can begin shopping for furniture and fabrics to fill your space. Upholstered furniture is a must for achieving an opulent look. Look for couches, chairs and ottomans covered in strong-colored fabrics such as velvet or faux-leather. Solid woods are also a good option, as many feature ornate carvings and details to enhance the look of your space. When choosing fabrics, look for rich tones such as deep reds, sapphires, and various shades of gold.
Choosing the Right Lighting
Good lighting is essential in achieving an opulent atmosphere. Chandeliers, pendant lights, or wall sconces can lighten or darken a space while adding luxurious accent to your decor. Look for fixtures with extravagant crystal droplets or lamps with metallic accents. If your space is too large for a single chandelier, multiple non-coordinating fixtures can be used to provide decorative drama.
Adding Decorative Finishes
There are several decorative finishes you can use to give your home an opulent feel. Mirrors and metallic finishes are a great way to brighten a room and can be attached to a wall or incorporated into furniture pieces. Think of embellished console tables, armoires, and sideboards with mirrored accents for a show-stopping effect.
Incorporating Colors and Patterns
Incorporating colors and patterns into your space can be a great way to showcase your unique style. Patterns, such as stripes or Damasks, can be used to great effect to create an eye-catching focal point. Or feature bold solid colors on the wall, such as navy or emerald, to add depth and texture to the room.
Including Wall Art
Wall art can be used to accent your color palette or introduce a new style into the mix. Choose artwork in ornate frames to match your existing decor or try painting an accent wall in a rich hue to complement or contrast with your furniture pieces. To achieve a luxurious look, consider choosing larger-than-normal pieces to fill a wall and really make a statement.
Bring in Greenery
Adding plants and fresh flowers to a space can completely transform a room. Scale down your selections for small apartments and consider unique planters and vases to place your plants. Lush greenery and flowers are the perfect way to layer textiles and bring in the much-needed natural element.
Accessorizing
Accessorizing your space is the cherry-on-top of designing an opulent interior. Try adding statement pieces such as brass vases, fur throws and armchairs, or velvet accent pillows—all perfect for creating an atmosphere of luxury.
Creating an opulent interior doesn’t have to break the bank. By planning your budget, shopping wisely, and adding different types of textures, finishes and accessories, you can achieve a luxurious look without the hefty price tag. With these simple steps, you can turn your home into an interior haven that is both Instagram and Monarch worthy.
