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From beautiful villages in the countryside to buzzing cities with lots to see and do, England is full of amazing places to live, yet only some are considered to be the best of the best. But what makes a place prestigious?

There’s no set answer, but generally, a luxury location is based on access to local services, property values, strong employment opportunities, and how visually attractive it is. If you’re considering moving to a more prestigious area in England, here are some of the best.

London

As one of the world’s most iconic cities, it’s no surprise that London is a popular place to live. And with plenty of job opportunities and a vast culture to explore, it has everything you could ever need. But living in the cosmopolitan hub comes at a price.

In particular, neighbourhoods such as Chelsea, Mayfair, Belgravia, and Knightsbridge stand out for luxury living. Properties are often located close to the waterfront and feature gorgeous square gardens, making them highly sought after.

Surrey

Surrey is another highly desirable place to live in the UK thanks to its excellent infrastructure, selection of woodlands, and short distance to London. The ‘home county’ boasts some exceptional properties, from country mansions to apartments. Areas like Virginia Water and Esher are among the most prestigious, with houses rarely going for below the £1 million mark

Home to world-class universities and first-class schools, Surrey also has a qualified and highly skilled workforce. Billions have been put into regeneration, ensuring the town centres remain relevant and vibrant places.

York

Back in 2018, York was voted ‘Best Place to Live’ by the Sunday Times, and the city is still as vibrant to this day, if not more. York is probably best known for its periodic buildings and historic city walls but it also has an unbeatable selection of bars, restaurants, and cafés.

York offers a good variety of luxury homes, including townhouses and cottages but these are at a much more affordable price compared to the other locations on this list. There are also new homes available in and around York, with some of the most popular areas being the city centre, Micklegate, and Fulford.

Cambridge

Cambridge needs no introduction, having been named one of the most desirable cities to live in the UK. The city is best known for its prestigious university and 31 colleges, as well as its incredible architecture and close location to the River Cam.

The housing market is driven by professionals, academics, and students who are drawn to its history and research institutions. The opportunities are vast and this has driven interest over the years.

Again, Cambridge has felt the impact of increases in costs due to the short commute to London but it is often listed among the best commuting towns. It’s the ideal place to spend time in the countryside after working in the city, offering the perfect work-life balance.

Creating a luxurious home environment doesn’t necessarily require a lavish budget or complex design plan. With a few simple adjustments and creative touches, you can elevate your living space to become a place of comfort and style. Here’s how you can transform your home into a luxurious retreat, step by step.

Finding Your Style

The first thing you need to do when styling your home to feel more luxurious is to identify your own style. Some people might have a clearer idea of this than others. If you feel unsure, take your time to learn more about your style by looking at online styling websites and magazines or visiting interior design stores. If you’re still not sure about how to style your home, then hiring an interior designer can be a great way to learn more about what style suits your needs and preferences as well as what best suits your home. An interior designer will be able to give you inspiration and advice for how to achieve a luxurious feel with your home while incorporating different elements of what you want from your interior design.

Start with a Clean Slate

Before adding anything new, declutter your space. A clean, organised home feels more spacious and inviting. Take the time to remove items you no longer need or love. This will not only clear physical space but will also give your home a fresher, more polished look.

Focus on High-Quality Basics

Invest in quality where it counts. Start with the essentials like a good sofa, a comfortable bed, and solid dining furniture. These pieces should not only look good but also withstand the test of time. Go for classic styles in neutral colours that you can easily accessorise. Consider the pieces of furniture that you really want to prioritise in terms of your budget and invest accordingly. For example, if you spend a lot of time relaxing in your lounge, then investing in a great couch could be the right choice for you. If you enjoy cooking, then consider investing in high-quality kitchen fittings and useful appliances.

Enhance Your Lighting

Lighting can dramatically alter the mood of a room. Incorporate a variety of light sources, such as overhead fixtures, table lamps, and floor lamps, to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Consider dimmer switches to easily adjust the ambience of your space for different occasions.

Choose a Cohesive Colour Scheme

Select a colour palette that reflects luxury. Rich hues like deep blues, warm greys, and earth tones can add depth and warmth to your space. Keep the overall palette neutral and use bold colours for accent pieces like cushions, art, or decorative items.

Add Textural Contrast

Luxury is often conveyed through texture. Mix materials such as smooth leather, plush velvet, and rustic wood. For instance, a velvet throw on a leather sofa or silk curtains can instantly elevate the feel of the room. Rugs are especially effective for adding texture and warmth underfoot.

Update Your Window Treatments

Good quality drapes can add a sense of grandeur and elegance to any room. Opt for full-length curtains in lush fabrics like silk or velvet to make your windows look larger and your ceilings appear higher. This simple change can make a significant impact on the luxury feel of your home.

Accessorize with Care

Choose your accessories wisely. Rather than overcrowding shelves and tables with knick-knacks, select a few larger pieces that make a statement. Items like oversized vases, large-scale art, and decorative bowls can create focal points and add a sophisticated touch.

Embrace Artistic Flair

Art can make a space feel curated and refined. You don’t need to invest in expensive pieces; even prints of famous artworks can add an element of luxury. Display art thoughtfully by focusing on proper spacing and alignment for maximum impact.

Focus on Fragrance

Scent is a powerful element in creating an atmosphere. As such, why not use candles, diffusers, or room sprays to infuse your home with a subtle, luxurious fragrance? Additionally, you could also choose scents that evoke comfort and relaxation, such as lavender, vanilla, or sandalwood.

Prioritise Personal Spaces

Don’t forget areas like bathrooms and bedrooms. These are spaces where you can indulge in personal luxury. Upgrade your bathroom with a rainfall showerhead, plush bathrobes, and high-quality toiletries. In your bedroom, consider a stylish bed frame or an elegant vanity.

Regular Updates

Finally, keep your home feeling fresh and luxurious by updating it regularly. This doesn’t mean major renovations; small changes like swapping out cushion covers, rearranging furniture, or updating artwork can keep your space feeling new and luxurious.

By following these simple steps, you can transform your home into a luxurious haven. It’s all about choosing the right elements and focusing on quality and style.