15 Styling tricks that will instantly elevate any room

It’s September and I always feel like its time to spruce up the room without embarking on a full renovation.  Sometimes it’s not about what you change, but how you style what’s already the space. These 15 simple but powerful tricks can instantly elevate any room, no matter your budget or square footage.

1. Layer Your Lighting

Try to use three layers of light: ambient (ceiling lights), task (reading lamps), and accent (wall sconces, candles, or LED lamps). This will help achieve a space that feels rich and multidimensional.

2. Float Your Furniture

Don’t push everything against the walls. Even in small rooms, floating a sofa or chair away from the edge of the room allows breathing space and encourages flow.

3. Use Oversized Art

One large piece of art can make a bigger impact than one or two small frames. A large piece anchors a wall and instantly elevates the sophistication of a room. Another way to achieve the feeling of a large piece of art is to group together smaller frames to achieve the feeling of one larger piece.

Add Texture Everywhere

Incorporate texture through throw pillows, woven baskets, rugs, curtains, and natural elements like wood or stone. Texture adds depth and visual interest—even in a neutral palette.

5. Mix high end with inexpensive. 

Blend investment pieces with budget finds. For example, pair an IKEA shelf with a designer chair or a vintage table. The contrast makes your space feel curated and thoughtful.

6. Embrace Symmetry (When Appropriate)

Symmetry can create a calming, balanced look—especially in bedrooms and formal living or entry spaces. Think matching lamps on a console or twin chairs flanking a coffee table. This requires a larger space generally for layout.

7. Style Your Surfaces

Use the “rule of threes” when styling coffee tables, consoles, and bookshelves. Vary height, shape, and texture for a natural but intentional look.

8. Go Big with Rugs

Always size up. A rug that’s too small makes a room feel cramped. Ideally, all major furniture legs should sit on the rug—or at least the front legs.

9. Incorporate Mirrors

Mirrors bounce light and visually expand a space. Place them across from windows to maximize brightness and create the illusion of more room.

10. Bring in Greenery

A plant (or three) brings life to any space. Go for varying heights—like a tall fiddle-leaf fig with smaller potted plants or trailing vines on shelves.

11. Choose Curtains Wisely

Hang curtains high and wide—well above the window frames or french doors and extending past the edges to allow the curtains to be drawn back to reveal the whole window space when not in use.  This placement makes ceilings appear taller and windows grander and wider.

12. Keep a Cohesive Color Palette

Even eclectic rooms benefit from a consistent palette. Choose 2-3 main colours and add in accent tones. This helps the space feel intentional and pulled together.

13. Use Books Creatively

Stacked books on a coffee table or bookshelf aren’t just for reading—they add height, structure, and personality. Bonus: they’re instant conversation starters and can be displayed along with decor that co-ordinates with the book colours.

14. Edit Ruthlessly

Less really is more. Remove what doesn’t serve a function or aesthetic purpose. A bit of negative space lets your favourite pieces breathe.

15. Add a Signature Scent

Great design isn’t just visual. Candles and diffusers help your space feel finished. Choose a scent that reflects your personality and the mood you want to create.

House Design is happy to assist with all Interior Design projects. We can be contacted by email:info@housebvi.com or by telephone: 284 494 1920