So many of us think that living a life of luxury is out of reach. We view luxury as owning things like fine jewelry, expensive cars and million dollar mansions. And although these things certainly create a life of extravagance ... they are not the only way to luxury living.
I heard a well known celebrity designer speak on a panel once. He lives in Malibu, right on the beach in a gorgeous multi-million dollar home. As he spoke about his home, the location he lived in, the neighbors he had, the clients he serviced - he shared that his career was a dream come true, his home was an oasis and his clients were fabulous.... but there was a catch! In CA new builds or remodels are required to install converters in their showers to control the flow of water and minimize the pressure to conserve water and energy. Therefore, his shower has horrible water pressure leaving his morning routine unsatisfying at best. Imagine having the greatest view from your shower, almost like you were bathing right on the ocean and all you got was a trickle! What a downer!!!
He went on to say that the biggest luxury in his life is when he travels outside of CA and stays in hotels that have stronger water pressure than he gets at home. He told us the first thing he does when arriving to his destination, before he even gets unpacked, is take a nice long shower! Just standing there for an hour and enjoying his luxury of water pressure! *pure bliss*
After hearing him speak, I started to challenge myself to identify the luxuries I had in my own life and the ones I would look forward to in the future.
Here are a few things on my list:
a handheld shower that makes it easier to shave my legs
a ceiling fan in most rooms of my house for the summer months when I run hot
big windows that let a lot of natural light in
an attached garage that makes carrying groceries in much simpler
a separate sink area for my husband's coffee setup
a home close enough to a trail that I can walk to
a walk-in closet
a fireplace
I could go on, but I won't! These are things I consider luxuries in my life and my home. You may read this list and think to yourself, "I have all of those things in my home, but I wouldn't say I am living a life of luxury". I get that. You may look around and feel tired and bored of the same old and are ready for an update, a change, a piece of luxury. Well, read on!
There are a number of ways to introduce luxury to your home, and it can be done on any budget. From the penny pincher to the Malibu beach house - there is something for everyone.
Here are a few tips on how to create luxury on any budget:
Wallpaper.
Wallpaper is a fabulous way to add a new dimension to any space and it ain't your grandma's wallpaper anymore! Wallpaper has made such a comeback in recent years and is on an upward trend that I do not think will be going anywhere any time soon! It has become as experessive as art and as practical as paint. You can use it on an accent wall like we did in this Tropical Twist bathroom remodel, or cover an entire room. Go crazy, get outside your comfort zone and give it a try!
Hardware.
A great way to elevate any space in your home is to upgrade your hardware. This can include cabinet hardware in kitchens and bathrooms, hardware on dressers, side tables or buffet tables. It can include heirlooom pieces handed down for generations or door knobs. Check out these selections from Elegant Additions Dallas for a modern and elegant look. Don't underestimate the pizazz a pop of gold can bring to a room!!!
Paint.
Color has the ability to move our emotions and really make us feel something. If you want to create a particular mood in your home, paint is an easy and inexpensive way to achieve this. Paint your mantle, your shelves, your ceiling, your cabinets, an accent wall... be bold with your color palette and harness your inner Picasso!
Plumbing.
Don't want to deal with the hassle of an entire remodel or the expense... changing out your plumbing can make a huge change in the look of your kitchens, bathrooms, laundry/mud rooms and wet bars. There are so many finishes to choose from, and don't forget - mix and match your finishes!
Drapes.
Drapes will always bring with them a sense of luxury. The fabric choices and materials are endless! I love the elevated look this bedroom by Berg Interiors presents. For a more formal look, let your drapes gather on the floor. For a more casual vibe, let them either just touch the floor or hang just a smidge above it. Hanging drapes above your windows will also give the illusion of higher ceilings. Drapes and other window treatments definitely scream luxury!
Lighting.
In our Mansfield Makeover, the lighting was really the star of the show - as all lighting should be! Chandeliers, sconces, lamps, art lighting, pendant and vanity lighting... it can all add so much character to your home. The greatest part about luxury lighting is that it doesn't cost as much as you think. You can find the most amazing light fixtures at the most amazing prices. Don't believe me... check it out for yourself!
I hope you can see by now that luxury comes in many forms. More than the price tag, luxury is a feeling. So if a $20 pair of slippers from Macy's makes you feel fancy, you are living in luxury my friend! The ways to add luxury to your home and your life are endless! You just have to get creative and think outside the box!
Need help finding ways to add luxury to your home? We've got you covered! With our design services, we can really elevate the style you want to capture and help you find your luxury style voice. From a design consult to full-service design, there is no project outside the reach of luxury.
So don't wait! Contact us today! Luxury is in reach and we are ready and waiting to open your eyes to the home you've always dreamed of.
