From a Regular Home to a Luxurious Villa: Decorating Steps That Don't Require Much Money

Dubai, United Arab Emirates - Luxury in interior design is no longer associated with huge budgets as it once was; rather, it is now possible to implement thoughtful details and smart choices to achieve it. In an interview with Afaq News in Arabic, Lebanese interior designer Maya Turk points to a set of practical tips that help achieve visual luxury in a simple and economical way.

The first of these elements, as she explains, is thoughtful lighting, as the distribution of light in different layers, along with the use of warm light, plays a significant role in adding depth and an atmosphere of elegance to the space. In addition, she emphasizes the importance of using natural materials such as wood, stone, and linen, as they provide a sense of warmth and sophistication in a simple and unpretentious manner.

She also stresses the necessity of choosing distinctive art pieces, even if they are small like a painting or a vase, as these elements add a special visual identity and a personal touch to the home. When discussing colors, Turk points out the need to start from a neutral color palette like beige or light gray, and blend it with deeper colors like navy blue or olive green to add an elegant visual dimension.

She also advises adopting a uniform color for the walls with a soft sheen, which enhances the feeling of luxury, especially when coordinated with natural textures. As for strong and bold colors, she suggests using them as simple detailing elements that add a personal touch without disrupting the tranquility of the space.

Regarding the role of lighting in highlighting the luxury of the decor, the Lebanese designer confirms that it is an essential element, as it showcases materials, deepens colors, and highlights architectural details. She notes that even in small spaces, a luxurious visual effect can be achieved through the distribution of light in different layers and choosing warm lighting that creates a comfortable and elegant atmosphere simultaneously.

Turk explains the difference between actual luxury and visual luxury, clarifying that the former relies on the use of expensive materials and visible details, while the latter creates a refined impression without high costs. She adds that visual luxury can be found in hidden details that are not seen but can be felt, such as hidden smart lighting or integrated technology, which is sufficient to give any space a sense of luxury even within a limited budget.

The Lebanese interior designer warns against some common mistakes that many make while trying to make their homes look more luxurious, the most notable being overdoing the decor or using multiple colors in an unconsidered manner, which leads to visual chaos instead of harmony. She also points out the mistake of purchasing pieces that "look luxurious" but are not of high quality, which negatively affects the overall appearance and reduces the value of the design in the long run.