Luxe look on a lean budget

Designed by: Justine Wilson, of Vault Interiors

In today’s cost-conscious climate, many homeowners and sellers are grappling with the challenge of preparing a property for sale without overspending – property stylist Justine Wilson, of Vault Interiors, shares her professional ideas on creating impactful home decors that won’t break the bank.

In addition, astute tips for styling and staging when selling your home also provide good interior design advice if you’re staying put.

From Justine Wilson:

Styling on a budget is not about cutting corners – it’s about making strategic, high-impact choices.

When done well, even the most modest styling efforts can create a sophisticated and desirable space that resonates with buyers and feels elevated.

1. Leverage the power of symmetry

Symmetry instantly creates visual order and a sense of calm.

Matching bedside tables and lamps, or a pair of armchairs flanking a coffee table, evoke a designer feel without additional cost – it’s one of the simplest ways to achieve a polished aesthetic.

2. Use oversized art strategically

Large-scale artwork adds drama and depth to a room.

Instead of filling a wall with multiple small prints, one oversized piece becomes a focal point.

Budget-conscious homeowners can DIY framed prints or use decals and textiles for a similar effect.

3. Keep to a cohesive, neutral colour palette

A neutral foundation, think whites, soft greys, beiges, makes any space appear more expansive and refined.

Introduce subtle contrast through textures like boucle, rattan, or linen – this creates interest without relying on expensive or trendy pieces.

4. Edit, don’t overfill

Warm-toned lighting, layered through lamps, pendants, and candles, adds a sense of warmth and sophistication.

Swapping out basic light bulbs or adding inexpensive floor lamps can dramatically improve the atmosphere.

5. Rely on lighting to elevate ambience

Warm-toned lighting, layered through lamps, pendants, and candles, adds a sense of warmth and sophistication.

Swapping out basic light bulbs or adding inexpensive floor lamps can dramatically improve the atmosphere.

6. Introduce greenery for instant freshness

Even a simple indoor plant or a vase of fresh foliage can lift the aesthetic of a room.

It’s an affordable way to signal that the home is well-maintained and full of life, something that resonates deeply with buyers.

7. Invest where it counts

If the budget allows for any spend, direct it to the high-impact zones: the living room, master bedroom, and kitchen or dining area.

These are the emotional and functional hubs of the home, and styling here yields the strongest return on visual appeal.

8. Utilise rental furniture or soft styling packages

Furniture rental or partial styling packages are an excellent option for vendors.

About Justine Wilson and Vault Interiors

Justine Wilson is a leading property stylist and the founder of Vault Interiors, a premier interior styling and property staging company based in Sydney, Australia.

Drawing on over two decades of industry experience and hundreds of styled properties across Sydney and beyond, Wilson has developed a refined approach to budget-conscious styling that prioritises visual balance, emotional appeal, and buyer psychology.

Vault Interiors offers tailored, budget-friendly packages that enhance presentation without the financial commitment of full styling.

For more design inspiration and tips, visit Vault Interiors

Story by: Trendsideas