The definition of luxury may differ from person to person but there are certain characteristics that all high-end apartment units have in common. While it is not necessary to upturn your entire apartment and start from scratch, there are ways to make even the dullest-looking unit a more elegant and opulent space. From using the right kind of furniture to using light to give your apartment a facelift, here are some tips and tricks that interior designers use to glam up a venue.

apartment-lliveroom | img via pxfuel

While a room with many windows or one where natural light is allowed to stream in looks effortlessly chic, adding a statement lighting source can take this effect to the next level. You can use a chandelier, a floor lamp, a table lamp or ceiling lighting fixtures to create a sense of drama in the public areas of your apartment home. Lamps and light fixtures made from brass or with gold finishes have an added sense of panache and can serve as a focal point in a room in addition to lighting up its darker corners. Pendant lights are also in vogue and are great replacements for table lamps while candles and reflective hurricane pillars are other fine additions to a dining room or living room. Mirrors can also be used to make a room appear larger by reflecting light off surfaces and walls.

If you've ever glanced at John Keells Properties or photographs of other luxury apartments in Colombo, you will notice that furnishings are increasingly used more sparingly. As the square footage of various apartments differs, it is important to use unique and functional furniture without overcrowding living rooms and entertainment areas with too many items. While a coffee table, sofa and storage cabinets are essential, a luxurious look requires a "less is more" approach to furnishing a space. The sofa you choose must not only provide comfort and be easy to clean but also add a sense of elegance to the room it occupies. This can be achieved by choosing a couch or chairs upholstered in bold prints or expensive-looking fabrics.

Nothing can brighten up a room quite like works of art or a choice painting. Glam up the aesthetic value of your living room by bringing some original artworks, prints and sculptures into the mix. Make sure the pieces you select complement each other and do not class in terms of style, texture or colour. If you can't splurge on original works, it is always possible to purchase tasteful prints, posters and have them framed in a uniform tone to place around the apartment. Gallery walls can also be curated out of antiques and even framed needlework and a trip to second hand stores may yield up some real treasures.

Don't use small carpets inside your apartment unless they are placed in bedrooms or bathrooms. When it comes to living room rugs, it is better to buy something larger as it can add some glamour to an ordinary room. The carpet you choose should ideally be able to cover not only your couch and coffee table but also go underneath any arm chairs or side tables in the living area. Rugs that contrast in colour with the floor of your apartment are perfect for making a statement.

Lastly, it is crucial to add some potted plants and fresh flowers to finish off the look. If you are placing fresh flowers anywhere in the living room, let it be in a focal point such as the coffee table where the aroma will be absorbed by the surrounding furniture. Potted plants should be placed near sources of sunlight but not leaning on the windows.