As the seasons change, H&M HOME's new autumn collection, including a collaboration with designer Kelly Wearstler, presents an opportunity to refresh living spaces with affordable yet impactful updates. Evelina Kravaev-Söderberg, H&M HOME's Head of Design & Creative, emphasizes that achieving a more expensive look doesn't require a complete room overhaul, but rather a few well-chosen details.
Strategic Decor Swaps
Kravaev-Söderberg suggests moving away from generic shelf styling in favor of design-led statement pieces. Instead of filling shelves with assorted ornaments, she recommends selecting individual decorative objects with character, likening the approach to curating a collection over time. A domino set, for example, can serve as a playful yet considered display piece.
Layered lighting is another key element to elevate a room's atmosphere. Replacing harsh overhead lighting with a sculptural table lamp can introduce a sense of luxury. Kravaev-Söderberg highlights a lamp with a ceramic finish and sculptural silhouette, noting its aesthetic appeal whether on or off.
To combat coffee table clutter, a single, well-designed tray can provide structure and a personalized touch. A tray combining natural materials like marble with geometric details can create a stylish centerpiece for remotes, magazines, and other small items.
Candlesticks offer a way to add warmth and ambiance, particularly when grouped at varying heights. Kravaev-Söderberg advocates for this approach to create a sensorial atmosphere, suggesting that a collection of candlesticks can look more sophisticated than a single statement candle.
For book displays, the design head suggests using a book stand for a favorite volume rather than simply stacking them. This method allows a single book to act as a decorative feature, especially useful in smaller spaces.
Awkward corners can be transformed into features with the addition of a floor lamp. Lamps with sculptural silhouettes can bring character to overlooked areas, with some designs also suitable for console or bedside tables.
In bedrooms, Kravaev-Söderberg advises against overly styled bedding, recommending simple checks for a polished, quiet-luxury feel. This approach offers a subtle pattern that completes the room's aesthetic without feeling overdone. The overall lesson is that thoughtful selection of fewer, higher-impact pieces can create a more expensive-looking home without a significant budget.