How to Make a Shared Living Space Look High-End on a Budget

Transforming a shared living space into a high-end haven might seem like a luxury reserved for those with deep pockets, but it doesn’t have to be. 

Whether you're sharing a rented room or splitting a larger apartment, you can create a stylish and sophisticated environment without breaking the bank. With the right approach, smart shopping, and some creativity, you can make your shared space feel like a chic sanctuary. 

Here are some budget-friendly tips to elevate your space and give it that high-end look.

Prioritize Your Spending on Key Pieces

To achieve a high-end look without spending a fortune, prioritize your budget on a few standout pieces that will anchor the room. In a shared living space, this could mean investing in a quality sofa, a statement coffee table, or a stylish area rug. These pieces will be the focal points and set the tone for the room. 

Choose neutral colors for larger items, as they provide a timeless and versatile foundation, allowing you to change up the room’s style with different accents over time.

For example, a sleek, mid-century modern sofa in gray or beige can be dressed up with trendy throw pillows and a cozy throw blanket. Look for furniture stores that offer sales or second-hand shops where you can score high-quality items at a fraction of the price.

Incorporate Affordable Art and Wall Decor

High-end spaces often feature interesting artwork and wall decor that adds personality and sophistication. You don’t have to splurge on original pieces to achieve this effect. There are plenty of affordable ways to add art to your space:

DIY Art Projects

Try creating your own artwork. Whether it's abstract paintings, framed fabric, or even a minimalist black-and-white sketch, DIY projects can add a unique touch to your space.

Prints and Poster

Purchase prints of your favorite artwork online and frame them. Thrift stores often have inexpensive frames that you can reuse. Try grouping smaller frames together in a gallery wall to create an eye-catching display.

Wall Sculptures or Tapestries

Add dimension to your walls with sculptural pieces or tapestries. They can create a boho-luxe vibe or a more structured look, depending on your choice.

Choose Multi-Functional Furniture

In shared living spaces, maximizing space is crucial. Multi-functional furniture saves space and adds to the high-end look by creating a more organized and clutter-free environment. Look for items such as:

Ottomans with Storage

They can serve as extra seating, a coffee table, or a footrest while providing hidden storage for blankets or magazines.

Convertible Sofas or Daybeds

These are perfect for small spaces and can double as a guest bed.

Wall-Mounted Shelves

They save floor space and provide a sleek and modern look while offering a place to display decor or store essentials.

The key is choosing pieces with clean lines and neutral colors, making the space appear larger and more open.

Layer Textures for a Luxurious Feel

High-end spaces often look inviting due to the layering of various textures. The good news is that you don’t need to spend a lot to achieve this look. Add different materials to your space, such as:

Plush Throw Blankets and Pillows

Drape a soft faux fur blanket over your sofa and mix in a few velvet or linen throw pillows. The mix of textures creates a cozy and luxurious atmosphere.

Area Rugs

Layer a small, textured rug on top of a larger, plain one to create depth. Rugs also help define different zones within a shared space, making it feel more organized.

Curtains

Opt for floor-length curtains, which add height to a room and create an illusion of larger windows. Even affordable curtains can look expensive if you choose fabrics like linen, cotton, or velvet.

Use Light Strategically

Lighting plays a huge role in setting the mood of a room and making it feel high-end. Aim to incorporate multiple layers of lighting for a more dynamic effect:

Ambient Lighting

This is the main source of light, such as overhead fixtures. If your shared space has outdated ceiling lights, consider swapping them out with stylish pendant lights or chandeliers for a more luxurious look.

Task Lighting

Add task lighting, like desk lamps or floor lamps, to brighten specific areas. A stylish floor lamp next to the sofa can make your shared living room feel more like a designer space.

Accent Lighting

Use accent lighting, such as string lights, LED strips, or wall sconces, to highlight artwork or architectural features. This creates a layered lighting effect that adds warmth and sophistication.

Bring in Natural Elements

Adding natural elements can instantly make a space feel more luxurious and calming. Incorporate plants, wooden accents, and stone decor to add a touch of nature.

Houseplants

A few strategically placed houseplants can bring life to the room and improve air quality. Choose plants that are easy to care for like snake plants or pothos if you don’t have a green thumb.

Wooden Accents

Incorporate wood through furniture, photo frames, or decorative objects. The natural grain and texture add a warm, upscale touch.

Stone Decor

Marble trays or coasters can add a high-end feel to your space without the hefty price tag.

Don’t Forget the Details

Small details can make a big difference in making your shared living space feel more high-end. Here are a few finishing touches:

Upgrade Hardware

Swap out basic drawer pulls and cabinet knobs for something more sophisticated, like brass or matte black hardware. It’s an affordable upgrade that makes a big impact.

Add Scent

Luxury isn’t just about how a space looks but also how it smells. Use candles, diffusers, or essential oil sprays to keep the space smelling fresh and inviting.

Decorative Trays and Bowls

Use decorative trays to hold items on the coffee table or entryway table. It helps keep things organized and adds a stylish touch.

Finding the Perfect Home

If you’re looking for the ideal shared living space or the right room to make your own, it all starts with finding a place that meets your needs and lifestyle. Use SpareRoom to find rooms in Philadelphia, Seattle, NYC, or anywhere else in the US. With SpareRoom’s user-friendly search filters, you can easily find spaces that align with your budget and location.

Conclusion

Creating a high-end look in a shared living space is entirely achievable with the right strategies. Focusing on a few key pieces, incorporating textures, using smart lighting, and adding natural elements can transform your shared space into a chic retreat. 

And don’t forget, the foundation of a stylish space starts with finding the right place. Use SpareRoom to discover your perfect shared living arrangement from the get-go.