5 colours that will make your house look very expensive
Colour can dramatically alter any space within a home – all you need is the right shade to make a room look stylish and sumptuous. From painting the walls to introducing colourful accents through accessories and soft furnishings, there are some go-to colours (hello, gorgeous jewel tones) that will always make an interior look expensive.
Below, we reveal the five colours that design experts love using to achieve the luxe look. Whether you're planning to give your home a full revamp or just smaller tweaks, read on for some colour inspiration.
Deep burgundy
Reddish-purple tones always add a sense of regality, and burgundy is no exception – it's a shade that aludes to opulent and expensive interiors. ‘This shade is everywhere right now because of its luxurious appeal,’ says Tash Bradley, colour psychologist and director of interior design at Lick. ‘Its depth allows it to create a cosy atmosphere without being overly loud or stimulating.’ She suggests pairing burgundy with burnt oranges, mustard yellows, fresh blues and pinks.
This rich hue lends itself to both modern and traditional living spaces. ‘Burgundy is ideal for decorating dining rooms, libraries, and living rooms,’ explains Lucy Steele, paint and interiors expert at V&CO Paint. ‘Due to the depth of the colour, it works well as a feature wall, or for smaller bedrooms, as an accent colour.’
Pictured: Purple 03, Lick
READ MORE: 6 ways to decorate with burgundy in low-light rooms
Sage green
Rich yet tranquil, sage green is a great example of understated luxury – it will add an earthy, nature-inspired look to your interiors. ‘This invites a rich, heritage feel into a room,’ says Tash. ‘When combined with dark wooden floors, marble countertops and stone, this green can create a space that will stand the test of time.’
Green has more variations than any other colour, so layer tones from olive to deep-ocean greens for a chic contrast, or pair with warming whites for balance. Sage green looks especially wonderful when styled with indoor plants – try pothos or the snake plant to introduce shape and texture.
Pictured: Mix diamond handle and diamond knob, Armac Martin
READ MORE: Green living room ideas
Navy blue
Chic and oh-so-versatile, navy blue has long been admired as an elegant and sophisticated shade. Its dark, rich tones can make a room feel cosier and more intimate. Pair it with warm lighting and soft textures for a cocoon-like feel, or up the luxe factor with metallic accents.
‘Rich colours such as navy blue are a great choice for an elevated feel,’ explains Helen Shaw, colour expert and director of marketing at Benjamin Moore. ‘For the ultimate statement, opt for an all-encompassing, floor-to-ceiling finish in one colour.’ This is also known as colour drenching, which is a bold technique that really lets your chosen shade speak for itself.
Pictured: Van Deusen Blue HC 156, Benjamin Moore
READ MORE: Blue living room ideas
Off-white
Going for a more contemporary look? Reach for neutrals in order to add subtle, laidback luxury. ‘Colour washing a wall with a gentle beige will give the look of simple, timeless quality,’ explains Sophie Smith, founder of Zhoosh Paints.
Opt for a matt paint finish instead of a glossy one, and match the wall colour to your ceiling to create the illusion of a larger space – higher ceilings evoke a feeling of grandeur.
'Consider using a contrasting colour for woodwork and detailing to make the look feel modern,' suggests Helen. 'Accessorise the room with textures such as stone, velvet and dark woods for a truly elevated feel.'
Pictured: Glacier White OC-37, Benjamin Moore
READ MORE: Decorating with shades of white
Charcoal grey
Moody inky hues are majorly on trend at the moment, and charcoal grey is a commanding choice for making your home look expensive. Bringing industrial elegance to a space, it's versatile enough to be dialled up or toned down. 'Charcoal grey will add depth to a room, creating a space that feels elevated and powerful,' explains Tash.
To soften its intensity, pair with marble or tinted glass, or combine with plants and natural materials. You can also layer charcoal grey with other dark tones (like burgundy) and rich timber finishes for a touch of drama, or choose white or soft neutrals for a comforting, nostalgic feel.
Pictured: Grey 08, Lick
READ MORE: 20 colours that go with grey
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