The Peral Group

Dana Gallagher

The difference really is, as they say, in the details, whether that’s a new lipstick, a touch of truffle oil, or in this case, pillows and paint. The living room above already had a lot going for it: a rough-hewn coffee table, a versatile sofa by Cisco Brothers, and a gorgeous ceramic garden stool. But apply one shopping trip’s worth of accessories—all under $100—and this just-okay space turns remarkably elegant.Homemade artwork and creative DIY lamps provide added personality, while refined textiles (including a classic ticking stripe for $2 a yard) deliver real polish—resulting in an “after” that exudes rich style without pulling too tightly on the purse strings.