Swap Out the Hardware

You might be thrilled to have scored a deal on an affordable desk or dresser, but when you get it home, you realize how cheap and mass-produced it looks. Siobhan Borland-Alvarez, DIY expert, says one of the easiest furniture upgrades is to swap out the hardware. “Most budget-friendly furniture comes with plain, plastic, or generic metal knobs and handles that don’t add much character and quite simply, feel cheap and look low budget,” she says.

By simply replacing those plastic pulls with sleek metal, glass, or even vintage-style knobs, Borland-Alvarez explains that you can instantly elevate the look of dressers, cabinets, nightstands, and more. “You just unscrew the old hardware and screw in the new ones,” she says. “You can find affordable and stylish options at home improvement stores, online, or even thrift stores for as little as a few dollars per piece.” 

Want it to feel extra luxe? She recommends choosing brass, matte black, or crystal hardware. “These small details can make a big impact without breaking the bank,” Borland-Alvarez says. “It’s a quick DIY upgrade that gives your furniture a high-end, custom feel in just minutes.”

Reupholster It

Sometimes, the fabric is what’s really holding a piece back from it’s full potential. “Reupholstering accent chairs and couches and using sophisticated fabrics can revive any old pieces and take it from drab to fab in no time,” says Tiffany Glasco, founder of Nahla Madison Home and Peyahla Design.

Borland-Alvarez says reupholstering is also a great choice for dining chairs, headboards, and bench seats. While you can have furniture professionally reupholstered if your budget allows, it’s also not as challenging to do on your own as you might believe. “You don’t need fancy tools or upholstery skills,” Borland-Alvarez says. “Most projects just require a staple gun, fabric, and scissors, and many pieces don’t even need sewing.” 

As for the fabrics, you don’t need to break the bank to get a more elevated look. “Fabric stores often have clearance sections where you can find high-end-looking materials for cheap, or you can repurpose fabric from curtains or blankets,” says Borland-Alvarez. “If you’re going for a high-end feel, neutral colors and textured fabrics tend to look the most polished and timeless.”

Paint Cheap Wood Furniture

Did you score a dingy dining table at a garage sale? A bit of spray paint can give it a whole new life. “It’s a DIYer’s secret weapon for turning basic furniture into something that looks high-end,” Borland-Alvarez says. “A few coats of gold, matte black, or metallic spray paint can transform outdated knobs, mirror frames, chair legs, and even entire furniture pieces. It’s an easy, budget-friendly fix that gives any item a modern, polished feel.”

Not sure where to start? “The trick is choosing the right finish: satin or matte finishes look sleek and modern, while bright metallics add a bold, glam touch,” she adds.

Just keep in mind that painting properly takes a little prep work. “To get the best results, lightly sand the surface, use a primer if needed, and apply thin, even layers of spray paint, letting each coat dry fully,” Borland-Alvarez says. “You’ll be amazed at how something as simple as a fresh coat of metallic paint can turn thrifted or old furniture into a statement piece.”

Update the Lighting Around the Furniture

“As a designer, I always educate on how much lighting can help aggrandize any space,” says Glasco. “If there are thrifty pieces that are tired or dated, dynamic lighting can create ambiance and emphasize the positive aspects of thrifty furniture.”

So, don’t be afraid to install a bold fixture or place a fun vintage lamp on top of a cheap table. It can make a world of difference.

Restyle What You Already Have

Sometimes, it’s not the furniture itself that needs an upgrade, but what’s on top of it. “High-quality accessories can instantly elevate even the most basic pieces, making them look intentional and luxe,” notes Borland-Alvarez.

This also doesn’t have to be expensive. The DIY-er suggests hitting up thrift stores or discount home stores to find the right decor. Or, consider trying to find something high-end on sale, like a crystal bowl. If the accessories look expensive, people will assume the table is too.  

If your budget is very limited—consider what you may already own. “A simple stack of books, a sleek lamp, or a decorative tray with candles or greenery can add polish and sophistication,” Borland-Alvarez says. “Try mixing materials like glass, wood, and metal for a layered, high-end feel.”

However, it’s crucial to curate and not clutter. “The key is keeping things minimal and well-arranged, because clutter can make even expensive furniture look messy,” she adds. “So, go minimalist on this approach.”