I'm an interior designer who works with wealthy, high-profile clients. I rarely see these 7 things in their homes.

As an interior designer, there are a few things I rarely see in wealthy people's homes. Getty Images; Chelsea Jia Feng/BI As an interior designer who works with both high-profile and everyday clients, I know creating a home that feels luxurious doesn't necessarily require a hefty budget.Instead, it's often about avoiding common items and designs that can cheapen your space.That said, there are a few things I've noticed wealthy clients rarely have in their homes. If you want your home to feel high-end, you may want to avoid them, too. Overly trendy decor can make a space feel dated. Trendy designs like shiplap should be used sparingly. imaginima/Getty Images An expensive-looking home prioritizes timeless, simple elements like neutral color palettes, classic furniture shapes, and enduring materials like wood, marble, or leather.Trendy designs and decor, however, can quickly make a space feel outdated. These types of items are best used sparingly as accents, making them easy to swap out as styles evolve. Low-quality fake plants can distract from even the most beautiful designs. It's best to skip the cheap-looking faux plants. Andrey Sayfutdinov/Getty Images Cheap, artificial plants can detract from an otherwise polished design. Instead, I suggest elevating a space with fresh greenery or high-quality faux plants that closely mimic the real thing.Low-maintenance options like olive trees or fiddle-leaf figs are excellent for those with busy schedules. And if you do choose to use a faux option, be sure to dust it regularly. Clutter is a big no-no. It's best to keep clutter concealed. eleonora galli/Getty Images Clutter can diminish the clean, open feel that defines a luxurious home.To mitigate this, I recommend keeping surfaces like coffee tables, countertops, and shelves intentionally styled with a few high-quality pieces like statement vases, sculptural accents, or a selection of curated books. This creates a refined, curated aesthetic without feeling overwhelming. Poor quality or outdated hardware can negatively affect a home's aesthetic. Generic hardware can make a space feel boring. Joe Hendrickson/Getty Images Small details such as cabinet handles and drawer pulls can dramatically affect the look of a home. That's why I recommend replacing outdated or generic hardware with high-quality options like polished nickel, brass, or matte black.Some of my favorite places to buy high-quality hardware are CB2, Rejuvenation, and Anthropologie. Etsy is also great for unique, one-of-a-kind pieces.These small upgrades can make even budget-friendly furniture and cabinets look custom-made. Messy cords and exposed wires can make even the most well-designed space look cluttered. Exposed cords can make a home feel less sophisticated. Beth Bachelor/Getty Images There's nothing worse than walking into a beautiful space and seeing messy cords everywhere. Keeping technology concealed maintains a clean, streamlined look that enhances the overall sophistication of your home.I recommend using cable-management solutions, hiding wires in walls, or choosing furniture with built-in cord storage. Mass-produced art pieces can feel a bit cold. Generic prints can make a space feel impersonal. Ground Picture/Shutterstock Art makes a statement, but in my opinion, mass-produced or generic prints can make a home feel impersonal.Instead, opt for unique pieces that resonate with you, whether they're original works, limited editions, or even family photos in high-quality frames. You can even find beautiful, one-of-a-kind pieces at antique markets or on Etsy. Poorly measured and low-quality window treatments are major faux pas. Low-quality window treatments can cheapen the look of a space. Owaki/Kulla/Getty Images Windows are a natural focal point in any room, and low-quality treatments or poorly measured drapes can detract from your home's overall aesthetic.However, thoughtfully chosen window treatments can transform and enhance your home's look and feel. I recommend investing in custom options tailored precisely to your windows, such as drapes, Roman shades, or shutters.Fabrics like linen or velvet are my favorites, and I love layering sheer panels with blackout curtains to achieve a perfect balance of style and functionality.This story was originally published on July 8, 2025, and most recently updated on August 12, 2026.