Giving your home a fresh look doesn’t have to mean emptying your savings. Interior designers Kim Armstrong and Liz Dauwe, both based in Dallas, believe you can achieve a high-end feel with smart, budget-conscious choices. Here are some of their favorite decor "dupes" — affordable pieces that look like luxury.
Upholstered Beds: High-End Look, Lower Price
Splurge: A custom, French-style upholstered bed that can cost around $8,000
Save: A similarly styled upholstered bed for around $3,000
Kim Armstrong loves the elegance of custom pieces but often chooses a well-crafted alternative and customizes it with new fabric and paint. The result? The same designer impact for much less.
Burl Wood Nightstands: Timeless Texture, Affordable Option
Splurge: Designer burl wood nightstands available only to the trade
Save: Classic burl wood nightstands that retail around $400
Burl wood brings warmth and sophistication to any space. Liz Dauwe recommends styling a budget-friendly version with a chic lamp, books, and a decorative box for a layered, polished look.
Bold Fabrics: Statement Prints Without the Price Tag
Splurge: A vibrant designer fabric at over $270 per yard
Save: Comparable fabric patterns for around $15 per yard
Armstrong loves eye-catching textiles and finds Spoonflower a great source for designer-inspired prints. She suggests ordering them in Belgian linen or cotton-linen canvas for a similar texture and finish.
Wallpaper: Botanical Prints on a Budget
Splurge: High-end wallpaper with detailed botanical patterns
Save: Affordable digitally printed wallpaper with similar aesthetics
In one of her projects, Armstrong swapped an expensive wallpaper for a more budget-friendly botanical print that delivered the same fresh, colorful vibe — perfect for a powder room or accent wall.
Statement Mirrors: Designer Reflection for Less
Splurge: Large designer round mirror priced near $2,000
Save: Oversized round mirrors under $1,000
Dauwe loves using large mirrors as focal points, especially in entryways or living rooms. A well-selected dupe offers scale and elegance at a fraction of the cost.
Sculptural Decor: Modern Accents That Won’t Break the Bank
Splurge: Designer link sculptures in premium materials
Save: Stone or ceramic link sculptures for under $100
Decorative links add a sculptural touch to any coffee table or shelf. Dauwe recommends using them with stacked books or trays to add depth and interest to your styling.
Pendant Lights: Sleek Fixtures, Smaller Price
Splurge: Designer pendant lighting with sleek finishes
Save: Stylish pendants with similar shapes available at hardware stores
For modern pendant lighting, Dauwe loves affordable finds that mimic the look of high-end brands. Use globe or tubular bulbs to give them that designer edge.
Updating your home doesn’t mean sacrificing style. With the right choices and a designer’s eye for detail, you can create a space that looks elevated—without the luxury price tag.
Looking for more interior design tips and renovation ideas? Stay tuned for inspiration, insights, and budget-friendly updates for every room in your home.
