Does Your Room Feel Like It’s Missing Something? Here Are 10 Designer-Approved Ways to Quickly Elevate the Space

Install Wallpaper

If there’s one thing that always elevates a dull room, it’s wallpaper. “It’s instant personality,” says interior designer and creator Lacey Farber. “And I’m not talking about grandma’s floral borders. Wallpaper has come a long way.”

She notes that wallpaper doesn’t even need to be a major commitment these days. “With peel-and-stick options, it’s low-commitment and renter-friendly,” she says. “Whether you go bold and colorful or soft and subtle, it adds character, depth, and makes the space feel finished without needing a ton of decor.”

Paint the Walls

Whether you’re trying to spruce up your bedroom, a guest bathroom, or even a laundry room, one of the best ways to elevate any space is with paint. “Potentially the biggest visual impact that also happens to be affordable is paint,” says Patty Hampton of Refresh Your Space. “We suggest bringing some paint samples home and painting a few decent-sized test areas with two coats, then observing it in different lights before making your final decision.”

Whether you opt for an accent wall or to drench the entire room one color, as long as you choose the right color, it’s pretty hard to go wrong with paint. 

Curate a Chic Color Palette

If you’re going from all-white walls to something more exciting, adding color—and being more intentional about it—can instantly elevate any space, explains Melissa Roberts, founder of Melissa Roberts Interiors. “Focus on an intentional color palette, neutral or bold, using three to four colors. Keep in mind that bold hues are best expressed when installed on the walls, trim, and ceiling cohesively.”

Install Architectural Details

Designer Kristina Lawrence says architectural details, such as picture frame molding or applied paneling can turn blank walls into design features. “These are classic luxury details that convey permanence, craftsmanship, and intent—even if they’re added after construction,” she says.

Best of all, you no longer need a pro or a big budget to add architectural detail. Peel-and-stick molding kits are now widely available and surprisingly affordable. This is also a smart idea for renters who want to add more character to their homes.

Integrate Texture

According to interior designer and creator Lauren Hansen, one of the easiest ways to elevate any space is by adding texture. “I can’t say it enough,” she says. “[Texture] instantly adds depth and makes a dull space feel layered and lived-in.”

There are so many simple ways to do this. “Think woven baskets, chunky knits, linen curtains, even a limewash wall,” she says. “Mixing natural materials like wood, stone, linen, metal, and rattan makes a space visually interesting.”

Establish a Focal Point

“If a space feels blah—lack of a pretty focal point could be the culprit,” notes Lawrence. “Without a focal point, rooms feel aimless or kind of builder basic.”

While the designer explains many rooms already have focal points—such as a fireplace, a large picture window, or a statement piece of art—perhaps you aren’t allowing them to shine. “Ensure you like what you see when looking at these points because they are what you will immediately be drawn to when entering the room,” Lawrence explains. “If you don’t like them, you won’t like the room. Then build the rest of the room’s design around it.”

If the room doesn’t already have a focal point, she advises creating one by adding a large piece of furniture.

Swap Out Those Boring Fixtures for Statement Lighting

If the only lighting is a boring boob light or a less-than-fancy flush mount, Peter Yera, director of design and development at Fine Art Handcrafted Lighting, recommends swapping out that old fixture for a more design-forward option. Then, layer other types of lighting into the space. “Add pendant or table lighting and/or sconces in captivating shapes, including decorative lighting with curves, flowers, diamonds, that work to create whatever specific room aesthetic—for example: pretty, modern, retro, or inviting—that you’re trying to achieve,” Yera says.

Hang Some Statement Art or Mirrors

Decorating the walls can instantly elevate a space, especially for those who aren’t DIYers or would rather invest in something they can bring to their next home. “Art and mirrors instantly add personality, scale, color, and visual focus,” Lawrence says. “A large-scale piece can set the tone of a space more effectively than any furniture arrangement. For less expense, mirrors can stand in for art while also amplifying natural light and giving the illusion of space—just be cautious of what exactly you’re reflecting.”

Create Personality with Styled Vignettes

Sometimes it’s not the big things but rather the little things that can make a major impact. Kathy Kuo, founder and CEO of Kathy Kuo Home suggests choosing some new accessories for the room. “Investing in intentionally styled vignettes and decorative accents is my favorite way to add sophistication and personality into a space that has been feeling dull,” she says. “Colorful decorative pillows, throw blankets, coffee table books, candles, and vases of fresh flowers are all easy and fun ways to add vibrance and unique aspects of your personality into a space and just spark life back into a room that feels flat. Play with contrast—color, texture, and shapes. You can do this in small ways with small decorative pieces or in big ways with new pieces of accent furniture.”

Add a Bold Statement Rug

Think of rugs as art for your floors. A bold rug can truly do it all—adding color, texture, and a focal point all in one. Instead of going with a typical square or rectangle-shaped rug, opt for a circle, oval, or a unique shape. In a more traditional room, you may want to consider scalloped edges. No matter what, the options are limitless.