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Buying materials and finishes from big-box stores can certainly save you tons of money on your project. But if you’re not careful, you can also run the risk of creating a space that feels just a bit too generic.

Large-scale art
When it comes to art, the most dramatic impact always comes from a singular, large-scale piece. Splurging on one painted canvas (or an intriguing print) rather than several smaller pieces can give an entire room a sense of drama and colour.

Expansive mirrors
As with art, the impact of a mirror is dramatically increased by increasing the scale. Plus, a mirror won’t overwhelm a space, but will only make it feel more open. Investing in a large expanse of glass will also double the look of all your other investments.

Tile feature wall
A single full-height wall of tile can have a big impact, whether in a bathroom shower zone or adorning one wall of a powder room. If you have a standard-size shower that’s 60 inches long and a typical ceiling height of 8 feet, then you have a 40-square-foot wall surface to work with.

Single-slab backsplash
Using a single slab stone for a big expanse of surface like a kitchen island countertop will put a sizable dent in your budget. But use a smaller shard of a single slab for something like a bathroom backsplash rather than tile, and the unbroken grains will have a powerful effect that says custom loud and clear, while creating a truly subtle and classic look.

Statement chandeliers
Pendants and chandeliers are a natural focal point, because they float away from the walls and because, well, they are all lit up! Choosing a truly beautiful fixture that stands up to the extra attention can make or break a whole room. Even in an unexpected place like a nursery or laundry suite, just this one upgrade can elevate the entire space.

Capiz fixtures
Capiz shell is a designer go-to material for creating a high-end look without necessarily having to spend a lot. Pendants and sconces in this material come in a wide spectrum of prices, so shop around to find an elegant feature for your dining nook. With all the subtle tone-on-tone beauty of the shells, you won’t need an elaborate table setting.

Gold accents
Upgrading a frame to an eye-catching gold finish will make it command attention, especially when it’s surrounded by simple white furnishings. As a frame is relatively thin, you can get away with simple gold spray paint, although gold leaf will take the authenticity up a notch. Just a few packets of leafing and an afternoon of DIYing can result in a piece that anchors a whole room.

Marble accessories
In a simple kitchen, a few material choices can really make or break the look. However, this doesn’t mean that all of the luxury has to come from built-in elements. One or two beautiful accessories made from marble (like the cutting board shown here) will make the material feel present in the space even if it doesn’t appear anywhere else.

In a living space, a single slab of tile can be converted to a stunning serving tray with some patience, a drill and a pair of cabinet handles. Or simply treat yourself to a marble server from a favourite boutique. After all, the piece can move from room to room, so it’s really an investment in your entire home.

Finally, bringing out the best in your quality investments demands that you edit out your less-than-favourite items where possible. The less in your space, the more special and curated each piece will feel.