What Rich People Never Have in Their Homes, From an Interior Designer

An expensive-looking home prioritizes timeless, simple elements like neutral color palettes, classic furniture shapes, and enduring materials such as wood, marble, or leather.

Trendy designs and decor, however, can quickly make a space feel outdated. These types of items are best used sparingly as accents, making them easy to swap out as styles evolve.

Clutter can diminish the clean, open feel that defines a luxurious home.

To mitigate this, I recommend keeping surfaces such as coffee tables, countertops, and shelves intentionally styled with a few high-quality pieces like statement vases, sculptural accents, or a selection of curated books. This creates a refined, curated aesthetic without feeling overwhelming.

Cheap, artificial plants can detract from an otherwise polished design. Instead, I suggest elevating your space with fresh greenery or high-quality faux plants that closely mimic the real thing.

Low-maintenance options such as olive trees or fiddle-leaf figs are excellent for those with busy schedules. And if you do choose to use a faux option, be sure to dust it regularly.

Art makes a statement, but in my opinion, mass-produced or generic prints can make a home feel impersonal.

Instead, opt for unique pieces that resonate with you, whether they’re original works, limited editions, or even family photos in high-quality frames. You can even find beautiful, one-of-a-kind pieces at antique markets or on Etsy.

Small details such as cabinet handles and drawer pulls can dramatically affect the look of a home. That’s why I recommend replacing outdated or generic hardware with high-quality options like polished nickel, brass, or matte black.

Some of my favorite places to buy high-quality hardware are CB2, Rejuvenation, and Anthropologie. Etsy is also great for unique, one-of-a-kind pieces.

These small upgrades can make even budget-friendly furniture and cabinets look custom-made.

There’s nothing worse than walking into a beautiful space and seeing messy cords everywhere. Keeping technology concealed maintains a clean, streamlined look that enhances the overall sophistication of your home.

I recommend using cable management solutions, hiding wires in walls, or choosing furniture with built-in cord storage.

Windows are a natural focal point in any room, and low-quality treatments or poorly measured drapes can detract from your home’s overall aesthetic.

But thoughtfully chosen window treatments can transform and enhance your home’s look and feel. I recommend investing in custom options tailored precisely to your windows, such as drapes, Roman shades, or shutters.

Fabrics such as linen or velvet are my favorites, and I love layering sheer panels with blackout curtains to achieve a perfect balance of style and functionality.