10 Small Apartment Upgrades That Look Designer (Without the Price Tag)
Intro
When you’re working with a small apartment, every inch has to count — but that doesn’t mean it can’t feel high-end. Most of us scroll Pinterest and save photos of chic spaces with designer finishes, only to think, “How can I possibly recreate that in my one-bedroom without spending a fortune?” I’ve been there — the fluorescent lighting, the builder-grade hardware, the lack of storage — it all adds up fast.
The good news? You don’t need a full renovation to make your apartment feel sophisticated. A few intentional upgrades can completely change the vibe of your home, adding both function and that effortless designer touch.
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Ahead, you’ll find my favorite small-apartment upgrades that look and feel expensive — all easy to install, renter-friendly, and perfect for modern women balancing work, home, and creativity.
What You’ll Learn
In this post, you’ll discover:
- Affordable design swaps that instantly make your space feel custom
- Smart storage and lighting upgrades that elevate the look of any room
- Subtle design details that add polish without a renovation
- My favorite apartment-friendly finds from Amazon and other trusted retailers
- Easy styling tricks that turn a rental into a reflection of your personality
By the end, you’ll have a list of realistic upgrades that transform your apartment from basic to beautiful — one intentional change at a time.
1. Swap Your Lighting for Warm, Layered Glow
Lighting is the secret weapon of every designer — and one of the easiest ways to make a small apartment feel high-end. Harsh overhead lights can make even beautiful décor look flat, while layered lighting adds depth and ambiance.
Start by replacing your basic ceiling fixture with a stylish flush mount or semi-flush chandelier (renter-friendly plug-in versions work wonders). Then, add a few accent lamps with warm, soft-white bulbs to create a cozy glow. A gold or rattan lamp instantly adds texture and visual interest.
Don’t forget corners and nightstands — lighting should flow throughout your space, not just from the ceiling. Try adding an LED floor lamp near your reading nook or a small rechargeable sconce for ambiance over artwork.
One of my favorite finds is this Morauroral Battery-Operated Dimmable Wall Sconce — a perfect example of how to make your apartment look designer on a budget. These sconces are rechargeable and completely wireless, which means no complicated installation or wall damage (a renter’s dream). The gold finish adds a touch of luxury, while the adjustable brightness lets you create that perfect ambient glow for movie nights, dinner parties, or slow Sunday mornings.
Why We Love It: It looks high-end, feels intentional, and instantly elevates your living space — no electrician required. Little upgrades like this give your apartment that “interior-designed” feel without the high price tag.
Style Tip: Layer three light sources per room: overhead, task, and accent. It gives the space that “designer photographed it for a magazine” feeling.
2. Upgrade Hardware and Fixtures
When it comes to transforming a small apartment, the secret is in the details. Hardware and fixtures are often overlooked, but they can completely redefine your space — like swapping out plain cabinet knobs for something sleek and modern. Think of them as the accessories that pull your entire home together.
One of my favorite affordable upgrades is replacing standard silver or plastic cabinet handles with something bold and timeless, like these Goldenwarm Matte Black Cabinet Pulls. They’re minimalist, high-quality, and instantly give your kitchen or bathroom that custom-built, designer look.
The matte black finish pairs beautifully with almost any color palette — from crisp white cabinetry to natural wood tones — and adds a touch of contrast that feels both modern and elevated. Even better, they come in multiple sizes and are easy to install, making this one of the simplest ways to upgrade your space on a budget.
Why We Love It: These pulls look like something straight out of a luxury renovation, but they’re affordable enough to use throughout your entire apartment. They add weight, sophistication, and that subtle designer edge every home deserves.
Style Tip: Stick to one metal finish for cohesion. Matte black hardware against soft neutrals instantly grounds your space and makes even the most basic cabinets feel intentional and high-end.
3. Elevate Storage with Designer-Inspired Organization
Small apartments can quickly go from cozy to cluttered — but that doesn’t mean your storage solutions can’t look intentional and chic. The secret? Choosing pieces that serve a purpose and blend beautifully with your décor.
Instead of plastic bins or mismatched baskets, look for elevated storage pieces that double as décor — think woven baskets, acrylic organizers, and upholstered furniture with hidden compartments. One piece I absolutely love is the Huatean Upholstered Storage Ottoman.
It’s sleek, sturdy, and perfectly neutral — meaning it works in almost any room. You can use it as a coffee table, extra seating, or a stylish place to tuck away blankets, board games, or anything you want out of sight. The soft fabric and modern shape give off high-end designer vibes, while the built-in storage keeps your home organized and visually calm.
Why We Love It: It’s affordable, multifunctional, and instantly elevates your space. You get the look of custom furniture with the practicality every small apartment needs.
Style Tip: Stick to a consistent material palette — linen, woven, or faux leather — for your visible storage pieces. When your bins, baskets, and ottomans share a color story, even your storage feels curated and sophisticated.
4. Incorporate Statement Mirrors and Wall Art
If there’s one trick designers swear by for making small spaces look bigger and more intentional, it’s using mirrors and wall art. They add depth, personality, and that “finished” touch that makes your home feel truly styled.
Mirrors bounce light and open up a room, while framed prints pull everything together with warmth and texture. The key is choosing art that feels cohesive — think soft tones, minimalist frames, or abstract patterns that complement your color palette.
One piece that does this beautifully is the Wooden Floral Framed Art Print Set. This set includes multiple coordinating prints with warm wooden frames and subtle, nature-inspired artwork. Together, they bring an organic elegance that feels high-end without being fussy.
Why We Love It: The frames look handcrafted, and the neutral palette blends seamlessly into any room — from the living area to the bedroom. They make it easy to create a cohesive gallery wall without spending hundreds on custom framing.
Style Tip: Hang artwork at eye level (about 57 inches from the floor) and group prints in odd numbers for a balanced, designer look. Pair with a nearby mirror to reflect light and give the illusion of more space — a favorite trick for apartment living.
5. Add Texture Through Fabrics and Rugs
If your apartment ever feels a little flat or unfinished, the secret ingredient you’re missing is texture. Designers use layered fabrics — throws, pillows, curtains, and rugs — to add warmth and dimension, making even the smallest spaces feel inviting and complete.
One of the easiest ways to do this is by introducing a statement rug that anchors your furniture and ties the room together. I’m obsessed with the Vintage Washable Medallion Area Rug — it’s the perfect example of how to add designer-level texture and pattern without spending a fortune.
The subtle distressed design, neutral tones, and intricate medallion pattern give it that “collected over time” look you see in high-end interiors. And since it’s washable and non-slip, it’s as practical as it is beautiful — especially for small spaces that double as living, dining, and workspace.
Why We Love It: It looks like a vintage heirloom rug, but it’s easy to clean and totally budget-friendly. The muted pattern adds visual interest without overpowering your décor, instantly giving your apartment that styled, layered feel.
Style Tip: Choose a rug large enough for at least the front legs of your furniture to sit on. It grounds the space and makes your layout feel intentional — one of the simplest tricks to achieve that “designer” look.
6. Refresh Walls with Removable Wallpaper or Paint
eWalls are the backdrop of your home — and if yours are dull, the rest of your décor won’t pop. The good news? You don’t need to repaint your entire apartment or hire a contractor to get that designer look. A simple wall refresh using removable wallpaper can completely change the feel of your space.
The Rugreat Herringbone Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper is one of my absolute favorite ways to do it. The soft, neutral herringbone pattern adds subtle texture that feels both modern and timeless. It instantly upgrades blank walls, shelves, or even the back of a bookcase — giving your apartment that “custom built-in” look without the cost.
It’s waterproof, easy to reposition, and doesn’t damage the wall when removed — perfect for renters who want the luxury of a makeover without losing their deposit. Whether you cover an accent wall or line a hallway, the transformation is immediate and stunning.
Why We Love It: It adds visual texture and warmth that instantly elevates any room. The neutral design works with any color palette, making your space feel designer and cohesive.
Style Tip: Use it strategically — behind a console, on a headboard wall, or even as a backsplash alternative in your kitchen. It’s an affordable, reversible way to bring depth and sophistication to small spaces.
7. Curate a Chic Entryway
Even the smallest entryway can set the tone for your entire home. It’s the first thing you see when you walk in — and with just a few thoughtful pieces, it can go from functional to fabulous.
Start with a slim, stylish console table that doesn’t overcrowd the space but still gives you a surface for décor and everyday essentials. The Plank + Beam Narrow Console Table is one of my favorite finds for small apartments. Its slim profile (under 10 inches deep!) makes it perfect for tight hallways, while the wood finish adds warmth and texture that instantly feels high-end.
Pair it with a round mirror above for balance, a small lamp for soft lighting, and a decorative bowl or tray for keys and mail. You can even tuck a woven basket beneath it for hidden storage — practical and beautiful.
Why We Love It: It’s narrow, neutral, and has that elevated designer look without the designer price tag. The natural wood grain and clean silhouette make it feel timeless, while the compact size works perfectly for apartments.
Style Tip: Keep your entryway styled but simple — one mirror, one light source, and one catchall. The negative space around each piece makes your setup look polished and curated instead of cluttered.
8. Create a Multi-Functional Work or Vanity Nook
In a small apartment, versatility is everything — especially when one corner might need to double as your office, vanity, or craft station. The secret is finding pieces that work as hard as you do without cluttering your space.
That’s why I love the HOMCOM Convertible Wall-Mounted Folding Desk. This clever piece folds down to create a workspace when you need it and tucks neatly away when you don’t — saving valuable floor space while keeping your room open and airy.
The clean, modern design makes it look like a custom built-in, and the interior shelving gives you space to store notebooks, makeup, or tech accessories. Whether you use it as a work desk during the day or a vanity at night, it’s the ultimate apartment multitasker.
Why We Love It: It delivers designer-level function and style at a price that’s completely doable. The compact design makes even the smallest corners feel purposeful, and the fold-away feature keeps your apartment looking tidy and intentional.
Style Tip: Mount a small mirror above it for a vanity setup or style with a sleek desk lamp and decorative tray for a minimal, high-end workspace. Add a soft upholstered chair to make it feel cozy and complete.
9. Dress Your Windows Like a Designer
One of the easiest ways to make a small apartment feel high-end is to give your windows the designer treatment. Curtains are often an afterthought, but they completely change how a room looks and feels. The trick? Hang them high and wide to create the illusion of taller ceilings and larger windows — just like the pros do.
To get that sleek, intentional look, I love using the Byondeth Extendable Gold Curtain Rod. It’s simple, elegant, and makes a huge difference in the overall aesthetic of your home. The gold finish adds warmth and sophistication, while the extendable design fits a variety of window sizes — perfect for renters who want a tailored look without a custom budget.
Pair it with long, neutral linen curtains that just kiss the floor to elongate your walls and soften the light. Even if your apartment came with mini blinds, adding a curtain rod and fabric panels instantly makes the room feel curated and finished.
Why We Love It: This curtain rod looks far more expensive than it is. It’s lightweight but sturdy, easy to install, and has that soft metallic tone that instantly elevates any neutral décor.
Style Tip: Hang your curtain rod about 4–6 inches above your window frame and extend it 6–10 inches wider than the window on each side. It creates a luxurious, designer drape that makes your apartment feel airy and expansive.
10. Style Intentional Vignettes
If you’ve ever scrolled through Pinterest and wondered how every coffee table and dresser looks so effortlessly styled, it all comes down to vignettes. These small, curated groupings make your home look intentionally designed — like every piece belongs there.
Start with a beautiful base like the FREELOVE Gold Decorative Tray. Its sleek, reflective finish instantly adds a designer touch to any space, from your coffee table to your vanity. Use it to display candles, perfumes, or a small vase of flowers — it’s functional yet undeniably chic. The round shape adds softness to your setup, while the gold tone brings that subtle luxury that makes even simple décor feel elevated.
Why We Love It: This tray is the definition of “affordable elegance.” It looks high-end but comes at a price that fits any budget, making it one of those rare finds that instantly upgrades your space. It’s also lightweight, easy to move, and versatile enough to refresh seasonally.
Style Tip: Keep your vignette balanced but simple — think a candle, greenery, and one decorative accent. The shimmer of the gold tray ties it all together, giving your space that boutique-hotel polish without the effort or expense.
Shop the Post
Here are some of my favorite small-apartment upgrades to help you get the look:
- Plug-In Wall Sconce (Gold Finish): Adds instant elegance and cozy lighting without hardwiring.
- Matte Black Cabinet Pulls: Simple hardware swap that looks designer in any room.
- Neutral Area Rug: Softens your space and ties everything together.
- Arched Floor Mirror: Reflects light and makes small rooms feel bigger.
- Acrylic Drawer Organizers: Keep your vanity or kitchen drawers streamlined and stylish.
- Linen Curtain Panels: Create height and texture with clean, minimal drape.
- Gold Faucet Upgrade: Easy DIY change that makes your kitchen feel custom.
Pro Tips / Bonus Ideas
- Use Command hooks creatively. Hang wreaths, art, or lightweight shelves without damaging walls.
- Add peel-and-stick wallpaper or contact paper behind shelves or in small nooks for visual interest.
- Decorate vertically. Tall bookshelves or wall-mounted plants draw the eye up and make ceilings feel higher.
- Incorporate natural elements. A vase of greenery, a wooden tray, or woven textures always add warmth.
- Read next: 10 Innovative Storage Solutions for Tiny Apartments for more space-saving ideas that pair perfectly with these upgrades.
Wrap-Up
Creating a home that feels designer isn’t about size or price — it’s about intention. When you choose upgrades that combine beauty and function, your apartment becomes a reflection of your personal style, no matter the square footage.
Start small: change your lighting, swap hardware, or style a mirror wall. Each detail adds up, creating a space that feels calm, collected, and truly you.
If this post inspired you to refresh your home, take the next step — explore my latest home décor finds for more budget-friendly pieces that bring a designer touch to everyday living.
And when you’re ready for more inspiration, visit my Home Decor section for cozy, creative ways to elevate your space one intentional upgrade at a time.
