Making a room look expensive on a budget can be tricky, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether your space is large or small, modern or traditional, a few coats of fresh paint can make a dramatic impact, especially if you’re working with limited funds. It’s truly transformative.
“Most people don’t realize how the right paint color can instantly elevate a space and create the impression of quiet luxury,” says Jennifer Rogers, interior designer at BKC Kitchen and Bath, This doesn’t even require a big budget.”
Here are six paint colors that you can always rely on to make your home look more expensive.
Charcoal Gray
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Are you looking to paint your room a dark hue? Rogers suggests going with charcoal gray. “It beautifully balances drama and richness,” she says.
Want to level it up even more? “Pair charcoal gray with warm metallics or natural textures in dining or living rooms to get that polished, designer edge,” she adds.
Pink
Want something bold and cheerful—but still sophisticated? Opt for pink paint. But not just any shade will do. “Dusty rose or millennial pink both feel refined when used in muted, matte tones,” Rogers says. “They soften the space while adding a whisper of personality, acting almost like a neutral but still bringing a luxurious feel.”
Not sure where to go pink? The designer recommends using this color in bedrooms and powder rooms.
Greige
The popularity of the in-between color greige has soared in recent years. A combination of gray and beige, Rogers touts this color because of its versatility and subtle warmth.
“Greige creates a calm, layered backdrop that goes well with natural materials like wood and stone,” she says. “This shade is understated but never feels boring. For a fresh, high-end look, greige should be your go-to choice right now. The secret here is in choosing shades that bring depth, softness, and intentionality to your walls.”
Taupe
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Similar to greige, taupe is another color that can make a room look like it belongs in an entirely different tax bracket. “Taupe is my go-to paint color for a luxurious feel, especially when paired with tonal decor,” reveals Melanie Bryant of Melanie Bryant Interiors. “It’s an understated neutral that feels more confident than basic gray or beige because it’s more complex. It reminds me of a suede bag or an expensive cashmere sweater.”
While taupe easily works in any room, Bryant particularly likes it for living rooms, home offices, and primary suites.
Interior designer and photographer Keyanna Bowen is also a fan of this color but advises choosing one with a warm undertone. “People love to debate whether neutral walls are boring, but I’ll always argue that a warm taupe can add a quiet depth to a room that feels elevated without being flashy,” she says.
Hunter Green
Dee Dee Taylor Eustace, founder of Taylor Hannah Architect Inc., says hunter green can instantly make any room look richer. “When in doubt, go with a true hunter green—the color of money,” she says. “It’s deep, classic, and always reads as expensive.”
It’s not just a bold move; it’s also a fantastic choice for color-drenching a living room, bedroom, or guest room. It also looks beautiful with pink accents for a Palm Beach inspired aesthetic.
Jewel Tones
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Kathy Kuo, founder and CEO of Kathy Kuo Home tells me there’s nothing like jewel tones to add that extra pop of luxury to a space. “I love rich, luxe tones like Prussian blue, burgundy, and emerald to really elevate a room. Especially when paired with sumptuous textures and materials like velvet, polished wood, and burnished metals, jewel tones both make a chic statement and offer versatile sophistication.”
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