For the past year and a half, I've been on the hunt for ways to spruce up my home.

I've searched for new homewares to purchase, DIY projects to start and just some simple tips and tricks to make the inside of my place look ✨fresh✨.

Along the way, I've realised that almost anything home-related can get pretty damn pricey. But apparently, it doesn't have to be.

Watch: Here's how to make your room look bigger. Post continues after video.

I spoke to Liz Hayward, interior decorator and stylist at Hayward & Co, to quiz her on five ways to make my home look expensive withoutactually spending that much.Here's what she said.

1. Keep to a maximum of three colours.

Liz explained that one of the easiest tricks to make your home look fancy is to choose a few colours you like and stick to them.

"By refining your colour palette and keeping to a maximum of three colours within any one room, you can easily achieve a space that feels unified," Liz said.

"You can of course still add small accents of colour with personal décor items, but large items should be kept within the chosen palette."

2. Think big picture.

With so many trendy products out there (think bouclé in 2021-22), it's easy to jump on the bandwagon. But as Liz explained, you need to consider if these pieces work within your space before purchasing them.

"When it comes to styling your home, it is always so important to think of the big picture so you can create a space that is cohesive," Liz said.

"It can be so easy to fall in love with a cushion or a rug and click add-to-cart without another thought. However, if that item doesn't work with the rest of the space then your home is going to look disjointed and lack the elegance of a coordinated space."

3. Add small touches of luxury.

"The simplest and easiest way to make your house look more expensive is to add small touches of luxury," Liz said.

"Think of the difference a bunch of fresh flowers or a scented candle can make."

"Other lavish small touches you could include are styling your coffee table or shelves with luxurious hardcover coffee table books, or investing in a great audio system," she added.