7 Designer tricks to make your sofa look high-end (Without spending a fortune)

Designer tips to make any sofa look luxurious — from new legs to layered textiles. Simple, affordable upgrades that instantly elevate your space.

A high-end look isn’t about spending thousands — it’s about smart details.

Whether your sofa comes from IKEA or a vintage find, the right upgrades can completely transform its style. From proportion and texture to color and light, here are 7 designer-approved ways to make your sofa look luxurious — all achievable in an afternoon.

1. Elevate it — literally

The fastest way to make a sofa look expensive is to lift it off the floor.
Adding stylish furniture legs creates visual space, improves proportions, and instantly adds that designer feel. It’s a small detail that makes a huge difference.

Try this: Swap your basic IKEA legs for sculptural ones in solid wood, brass, or colored metal. Prettypegs’ Otto and Hedda legs are perfect examples — elegant, customizable, and designed to fit both IKEA and non-IKEA sofas.

Can I change my sofa legs?

Absolutely — and it’s one of the easiest ways to give your sofa a fresh, high-end look without replacing the whole piece. Most sofas (especially IKEA models) come with detachable legs that can easily be swapped for new ones using the same screw fittings or mounting plates.

With the right legs, you can instantly change the style, height, and even the color tone of your sofa — from modern minimalism to mid-century or playful Scandi chic.
Plus, it’s a sustainable way to upgrade your furniture instead of buying new.

Explore our sofa legs collection to find styles that fit both IKEA and non-IKEA models.

2. Layer with quality textiles

Texture = luxury. Replace thin or worn-out throws with chunky knits, linen, or velvet.
Layering different fabrics (linen + wool + boucle) adds depth and makes even a budget sofa feel bespoke.

Go for neutral tones or rich autumn colors like rust, olive, or chocolate for that cozy-luxe vibe.

3. Choose a cohesive color palette

High-end interiors always have one thing in common: harmony.
Keep your sofa area within a calm, consistent color palette — usually three tones max (base, accent, and contrast).

Design tip: Matching your sofa legs to accent tones in cushions or artwork creates a subtle, intentional look designers swear by.

4. Style the space around it

Even the most beautiful sofa can look lost if the surroundings don’t support it.
Add side tables, a rug that’s large enough (at least front legs of the sofa on the rug!), and artwork hung at eye level.

It’s about framing the sofa so it looks like part of a curated space, not a standalone piece.

5. Add symmetry and balance

Symmetry = sophistication.
Use matching lamps, cushions, or side tables on each side of the sofa to bring calm and visual order. It’s a classic interior design trick to make any setup look “put together.”

✨ Bonus: Add a few sculptural candle holders (like Prettypegs’ reversible designs) to accentuate the balanced look with soft, warm light.

6. Refresh the wall behind your sofa

What’s behind your sofa matters.
Hang one oversized artwork, or create a cohesive gallery wall using similar frames and colors. Avoid tiny pieces that make the space feel smaller — scale gives presence.

7. Finish with small, thoughtful details

It’s the details that separate “cheap” from “chic.”
Replace worn-out legs, fix sagging cushions, and add a few high-quality accent pieces — maybe a sculptural vase, or a side table with personality.

Remember: Good design isn’t about replacing — it’s about refining what you already have.

Luxury doesn’t come from price tags — it comes from attention to detail.
By elevating your sofa (literally and visually), layering textures, and creating a sense of balance, you can make even the simplest piece look curated and intentional.

Ready to upgrade your sofa’s look?

Discover customizable legs and accessories at Prettypegs.com — and turn your everyday sofa into a statement piece.

👀 Spotted a pair you love? Here are some of the legs featured in this post:

Got a makeover you’re proud of? Tag us @prettypegs on social media — we love seeing your creations!

🤍 Love,
The Prettypegs Team