By: Taylor Graveline
Crystal Shell, a celebrated Airbnb superhost and the visionary behind the leading solution to customize property screens with unique images and real-time, calendar-synced guest information, Hello Guest Screen, has mastered the art of creating luxurious living spaces on a budget. With her extensive experience managing 11 properties, Crystal offers invaluable advice on interior design that combines elegance with affordability.
Kitchen Elegance on a Budget
Crystal advocates for dark cabinetry to make a kitchen look more luxurious. “Dark colors like deep charcoal, espresso, or navy blue add a sense of sophistication and make the kitchen feel more upscale,” she explains. These colors create a dramatic contrast with lighter countertops and backsplashes, elevating the overall aesthetic.
For countertops, she recommends marble, especially Carrara marble, which is renowned for its luxurious appearance and timeless beauty. “Marble worktops, paired with stone flooring like travertine or slate, can significantly enhance the kitchen’s luxury quotient,” Shell notes. Regarding flooring, she suggests sticking to neutral tones with subtle variations to maintain a classic and sophisticated look.
When it comes to painting kitchen walls, she prefers a cohesive approach. “Matching the wall color with the cabinetry creates a unified and expansive feel, making the space appear larger and more refined,” she states.
Luxurious Bedroom Design
The bedroom should be a sanctuary that exudes comfort and luxury. Crystal recommends using soothing, neutral wall colors like soft beige, warm gray, or creamy white. “These colors provide a timeless elegance and serve as a perfect backdrop for highlighting other luxurious elements within the room,” she says.
Incorporating a rich color like sapphire blue as a secondary tone can add depth and sophistication. She suggests using this color for an accent wall or in textiles such as curtains and bedding. To introduce an element of luxury, she recommends adding metallic accents, such as gold or bronze, in about 10% of the room’s decor, through items like picture frames, light fixtures, and decorative pillows.
To maintain the room’s upscale appearance, Shell advises against using highly contrasting colors that can create visual tension. “Avoid combining colors with clashing undertones, like mixing warm and cool hues, as this can disrupt the harmonious feel of the space,” she advises.
Small But Impactful Tweaks
Small changes can make a big impact. “Swapping out old light fixtures for chic, modern ones or replacing worn-out hardware on cabinets can dramatically change a room’s look without much expense,” Shell notes. Such tweaks are quick to implement yet make significant aesthetic improvements.
Budget-Friendly Tips for an Expensive Look
It’s important to emphasize that creating a luxurious environment doesn’t require a lavish budget. “Investing in high-quality essentials such as bedding, curtains, and rugs can elevate the entire look of a room,” Shell suggests. Opting for fabrics like Egyptian cotton for bedding and plush materials for curtains and rugs can make a significant difference.
For small bedrooms, she recommends choosing multipurpose furniture with a sleek design to enhance functionality without sacrificing style. “Consider a platform bed with built-in storage or a wall-mounted desk to make the most of limited space,” says Shell.
Enhancing Driveway and Exterior Appeal
Finally, Crystal recommends that homeowners prioritize their driveways, as they have an immense influence on their residences’ curb appeal. “Choose materials and designs that complement your home’s architecture. Adding lighting not only improves safety but also enhances the home’s aesthetic appeal at night.”
Elevating Your Home with Simple, Elegant Touches
Anyone can redesign their residence into an environment that is both inviting and opulent by following Crystal Shell’s expert guidance. She demonstrates that it is possible to establish an exquisite home environment without spending a fortune through her practical and cost-effective strategies, which range from minor adjustments to substantial improvements. These insights can assist you in achieving a high-end appearance while remaining economically sensible, regardless of whether you are modernizing a single room or renovating an entire house.
Published by: Martin De Juan