How to Make Your Home Look AD-Worthy (Without Being a Millionaire)

We’ve all scrolled through Architectural Digest and thought, “Yeah, that’s never going to happen.” But here’s the thing: an AD-worthy space isn’t just reserved for celebs and interior designers with unlimited budgets. Anyone can create a space that feels sleek, polished, and effortlessly chic—it’s all about curating with intention and knowing where to invest. Here’s a starting point to turn your average home into an aesthetic one. 

Start with Intentionality: Every Detail Should Count

A home with real style doesn’t happen by accident. You need to be picky about what you bring in, and more importantly, why it’s there. Don’t just buy things because they’re “cute,” or because someone else has it in their home. 

Each piece should fit within the aesthetic you’re going for, whether it’s minimalist, eclectic, or boho-chic. You can have a curated space without draining your savings, as long as you don’t clutter it with stuff you won’t care about in six months.

Lighting Is Everything: Create an Ambiance, Not a Bright Room

People underestimate the importance of lighting, but let me tell you: if you want your place to look like it belongs in a glossy magazine, lighting is your best friend. Overhead lights? Out. A well-placed table lamp or a chic floor lamp? In. 

Layer your lighting for a cozy, high-end feel. Bonus points if you go for dimmable options that let you control the mood of the room depending on what you’re up to.

Mix Things: Don’t Buy Sets PLEASE

AD-worthy doesn’t mean “matchy-matchy” or overly polished. Don’t fall for the magazine advertisement for the entire “Coquette collection.”  Pair an antique mirror with a modern sofa, throw in some velvet cushions, or go for a minimalist piece of art next to a statement lamp.

It’s about mixing things that feel fresh together, not just buying whatever’s trendy or what “goes together.” You want your space to feel lived-in and curated, not like you walked out of a furniture showroom.

The Secret Ingredient: Symmetry

Symmetry is one of those design principles that works in almost any space, and it’s one of the reasons that AD homes look so put-together. It doesn’t mean everything has to be perfectly mirrored, but creating balance in a room can make it feel immediately more cohesive. 

Try pairing furniture across from each other or balancing bold accent pieces with quieter ones to create harmony throughout your space. A little bit of feng shui goes a long way. 

Confidence Is Key As Always 

Finally, confidence is what turns any room from “okay” to “wow.” Don’t second-guess your design choices—if you like it, own it. An AD-worthy space is one where you feel comfortable and in control of the vibe. 

Whether you’re layering throws or experimenting with color, trust your taste. Your space should be a reflection of who you are—stylish, sophisticated, and completely unique. And the best part of interior design, you can ALWAYS change it.