Have you ever looked through those home and garden magazines and felt that your dwelling is wholly inadequate? Well, you're not alone. Luxuriously furnished rooms with the signature of an interior designer isn't something many of us can afford. However, there are some tricks that you can apply to your home without breaking the bank which will lend an opulent air to your living space.

1. Material World

Before you go shopping it's a good idea to remember a few things. There are certain materials and colours that are by themselves luxurious. These include wood, marble, fur, mirrors, gold and silver. Of course, it wouldn't be desirable to have all of these in one space. However, if you choose elements of these things you will be well on the way to a chic and tasteful room. For example, a few fur cushions on the couch or a mirrored bedside table will lend the right amount of opulence to your space without going over the top.

2. Make a Statement

Invest in statement pieces such as the couch, dining table or bed. This may mean spending a little more but you can rest assured that by choosing just a few key items it will have the effect you desire.

3. Keep it to a Minimum

We all know the phrase ‘less is more'. This golden rule applies to your home too. For a room to appear lavish it doesn't mean filling it to the brim with things. Each and every item must be well considered before you put it in your home. It should be either functional or aesthetically pleasing - if both then you've attained perfection. If we keep things to a minimum your home will have a more affluent air.

4. Lucky Day

Always be on the lookout for something that you truly love. Don't fall into the trap of compromising on something else when the true item of your desire is out of your price range. You may discover it hugely reduced in another shop and don't forget to check out craft fairs or even the internet - you never know when it will be your lucky day!

5. Go Retro

As we just mentioned, you can find lots of interesting and quirky items in shops and fairs that sell vintage and antique goods. For example a 1950s table would add heaps of character to your dining room. Don't forget to check out things at your grandparents' homes too and, with their permission naturally, see if there are things they no longer need or you may be able to borrow.  Vintage bedside tables, a book shelf or even wicker baskets with rolled up bath towels in your bathroom would add stylish high quality accents to your home without too much cost.

6. Neutralise

Paint your walls in neutral nude shades. Beige, sand and cream hues will lend sophistication thus providing the ideal canvas to create your perfect room. For your room to evoke a plush air, you don't have to have chandeliers and velveteen furniture. Keep it simple with a few choice pieces.

7. Back to Black

A colour that you shouldn't be afraid of is black. A striking option for an air of decadence would be to paint your interior doors black and to fix ornate gold- coloured handles.

8. Light Up

How you light your home is extremely important. First and foremost, forget central lighting and invest in floor lamps and table lamps thus lending a cosy welcoming ambience to your space. Don't forget to choose designers style lamps with character that will create a personalized element to your home that is reflective of your personality.

9. Be Creative

As cost can be an issue, if you want to add affluent touches to your home it would probably be best to go down the DIY route. For example, you could paint glass vases with gold or silver spray for an opulent feel. You could do this on other household items for a stylish update such as mirrors, perhaps with a stencil. A collage from fashion magazines in the hall or downstairs loo will lend a trendy quirky feel that oozes exclusive taste!

10. Flower Power

Okay so now for the finishing touches. Fresh flowers will really lift your living space to the next level. Visit your local florists and buy your favourite flowers. Again - don't go overboard. If you look at the magazines they always adhere to the ‘less is more' rule that we've talked about before. Another tip is to use big ornate and unusual pots and place green tropical plants such as Parlour Palms or Dragon Trees in them for a finish with a flourish of finesse.