Not so long ago the height of domestic luxury was a Smeg fridge and a roll-top bath.

Fast forward to today and the interiors world is awash with status symbols that feel more aspirational than essential: think doggy showers tiled like boutique spas, walk-in wardrobes the size of studio flats, backlit home bars, boot rooms with bench seating and bespoke joinery… the list goes on.

These additions may not be strictly necessary, but oh, how we want them.

Whether it’s the allure of spaces worthy of social media, the influence of celebrity cribs, or simply the desire to turn our homes into sanctuaries that spark joy, many of us are lusting after interiors that feel a touch more Pinterest than strictly practical.

“There are certain features people dream of having in their homes,” explains Kunal Trehan, Interior designer and founder of Touched Interiors.

“A boot room, a doggy shower, a dedicated home bar all spark desire not because we need them but because they say something.

“They whisper a certain lifestyle, one we’ve seen in a hundred glossy images on Instagram and Pinterest.”

In the right home Kunal says he loves incorporating these features, but in certain spaces these interior “status symbols” aren’t always practical or necessary, but they’re seductive.

“They speak to the kind of life we imagine ourselves living, even if the reality is a little more hectic and a little less polished,” he adds.

“The good news? You don’t always need a major build to get the look or feel.

“Sometimes, it’s about smart styling, clever layout choices, or just the right piece in the right place.”

As Kunal points out, there are some ways to capture the spirit of these indulgent features without the eye-watering price tag or major renovation?

We spoke to the experts for their take on some of the most-wanted interior flourishes and the clever, creative ways to get the look for less – because sometimes a little design trickery goes a long way.

Interior status symbol: The boot room

You may only own two pairs of actual boots and live in a tiny second-floor flat, but that won’t stop the dream of a boot room – because nothing quite whispers ‘quiet luxury’ quite like a whole room dedicated to coats and clutter control.

“Boot rooms evoke the charm of country living, regardless of postcode,” explains Kunal.

“Immaculate open shelving, shaker-style cabinetry, and space for every family member’s wellies.”

If the budget won’t stretch to a bespoke boot room, Kunal suggests repurposing a hallway or corner with panelling hooks and a vintage bench.

“Built-in joinery isn’t essential when styling is this smart,” he adds.

Interior status symbol: The home bar

Forget last season’s covetable drinks trolley, today’s desire is for an entire home bar that is less ‘last-minute G&T’ and more ‘Mayfair members’ club at home’.

A full on back-lit home affair is the ultimate in grown-up glamour – even if you’re mostly pouring Prosecco and pretending you’re propping up the bar.

But have we written off a bar nook a little too soon? Maria Ramirez, founder of BB Interiors says you don’t need a built-in cabinet or mirrored splash-back to serve up your Negronis.

“A styled tray on a sideboard, some pretty bottles and a couple of mismatched vintage glasses will do the trick,” she explains.

“It’s all about the illusion of cocktail readiness.”

Interior status symbol: A walk-in pantry

Inspired by Instagram, fuelled by a trip to Home Bargains, the modern pantry is less about food storage and more about curated lifestyle goals.

“What was once a purely functional space has become a full-blown Instagram moment, with labelled jars and matching containers lined up like soldiers,” explains Maria.

If you’re short on cupboard space, Maria suggests clearing space for one tidy shelf with decanted staples and a spotlight which will scratch the same itch.

“It is theatre disguised as storage,” she adds.

Victoria Robinson, style and trend expert from Hillary’s says open shelving in the kitchen can also give a similar curated, Instagram-worthy feel.

Interior style status: The wet room

Modern, stylish, and undeniably spa-like, wet rooms are no longer niche luxuries – they’re aspirational features that blend sleek design with real-world benefits.

It’s little wonder therefore, that Strutt & Parker’s latest Housing Futures survey found that of Brits looking to move home a wet room was the third most covetable feature.

“A wet room whispers spa retreat and quiet wealth,” explains Maria.

“The good news is, you can borrow the vibe.

“Stick to one colour for your tiles, clear away the clutter, and swap in a rainfall shower head.

“Add a eucalyptus bundle if you really want to commit.

“Just like that, you’ve got luxury without the remodelling.”

Interior status symbol: The doggy shower

What started as a Pinterest pipe dream is now peak pooch-parent chic.

A tiled dog shower says: “I have both taste and a spaniel with muddy paws”.

“A doggy shower is the ultimate pet-owner flex,” explains Victoria.

“Instagram has made these look so chic, but unless you have a muddy retriever, most of us can manage with a regular utility sink or even an outdoor hose.”

For a similar vibe she suggests adding a stylish dog bed or a dedicated pet corner with beautiful storage for leads and treats.

Meanwhile Kunal recommends incorporating a chic handheld attachment to a low sink or utility basin.

“Keep a beautiful woven basket of towels nearby. You’ll get the function and still look the part,” he adds.

Interior status symbol: The marble coffee table

Because nothing says ‘grown-up home’ quite like a surface that’s totally impractical for red wine, but looks divine on Instagram.

“Marble coffee tables are an interior status symbol that has risen in popularity on social media due to their luxurious and aesthetically pleasing design,” explains Ethan Fox, interior expert at Furniture World.

“These coffee tables are highly sophisticated, making them a timeless piece that can completely elevate the appearance of a room, hence their popularity.”

However, marble coffee tables are super spendy and can be difficult to maintain.

Thankfully, there are some ways to get a similar look for a less fancy price point.

“Marble laminate is a great alternative to real marble, as it offers a similar aesthetic appeal and is far cheaper and easier to maintain than real marble,” Ethan suggests.  

Alternatively Kunal suggests trying travertine or marble-look composite surfaces.

“Or go vintage with pre-loved pieces offering patina and character,” he adds.

If only marble will do Maria recommends opting for a marble-effect tray or a smaller accent table, which can add a similar polished look.

Interior status symbol: The statement pendant

It’s less about illumination, more about elevation – because nothing says “tastefully decorated home” like a light fitting you had to wait 12 weeks and remortgage your house for.

“It’s unsurprising that statement pendant lighting is an interior design trend that signifies elegance and luxury,” explains Ethan.

“Statement lighting creates a sense of grandeur in an interior, especially in homes with tall ceilings as they create a focal point that helps to draw the eye upwards.”

Ethan says  lot of statement lighting is large in scale and made using luxurious materials and intricate designs, making it highly expensive.

“To avoid the high price tag typically associated with pendant lighting it’s a good idea to opt for more affordable materials, such as bamboo or rattan pendants,” he continues.

“These materials can be used to create visually interesting designs with a unique focal point.

Additionally, metal statement lighting can be bought from budget-friendly retailers for durable designs at half the cost.” 

As a further option Ethan suggests incorporating visually interesting wall sconces, which can be a great alternative to pendant lighting, especially in homes with low ceilings.

“Interesting and sculptural wall sconces can act as a piece of art within your home, to create a similar feeling of grandeur as pendant lighting,” he adds.

Kunal suggests looking to smaller-scale artisan pieces or cluster lights.

“The impact lies in contrast and proportion, not necessarily price,” he adds.

Interior status symbol: The outdoor kitchen

Because if we get three sunny days a year, we’ll need somewhere with a big green egg and wine fridge to make the most of them.

“With outdoor kitchens alfresco entertaining meets chef-level kit,” explains Kunal.

“Pizza ovens, built-in grills, integrated fridges, all styled with ceramic serve-ware and linen.”

But stylish outdoor dining doesn’t come cheap.

According to experts at Checkatrade, your minimum spend would be around £1000 but could rise to £50,000 for a bespoke design, with an average of £20,000 for a good quality outdoor kitchen.

As an alternative, Kunal suggests using a portable pizza oven and a bar cart with ice bucket and prep space.

“Add festoon lighting and an oversized parasol for atmosphere,” he adds.

Interior status symbol: The freestanding stone bath

Not just for soaking, a freestanding stone bath is actually more for staging.

Preferably in front of a sash window, with a vintage stool and a hint of eucalyptus, to signal that you’ve mastered the art of the elevated unwind.

If your budget doesn’t stretch to the bath of dreams, Kunal suggests opting for a back-to-wall freestanding style, which is more cost-effective and also won’t need the reinforcement of your floors.

“Elevate the space with textured towels, a timber bath board and natural stone accessories,” he adds.

Interior status symbol: The walk-in wardrobe

Ever since Carrie opened those mirrored wardrobe doors in Sex And The City, the walk-in has become the ultimate fantasy.

It taps into the dream she sold us: somewhere to sip coffee, ponder shoes, and feel like your best, most pulled-together self – even if you’re only dressing for the school run.

If you can’t quite stretch to Carrie’s recent wardrobe upgrade in And Just Like That Kunal suggests fitting out an existing wardrobe with custom inserts, soft lighting and glass-fronted storage.

“Add a chic pouffe or a floor mirror nearby for the boutique feel,” he adds.

Interior status symbol: A dedicated coffee area

Who doesn’t want a dedicated nook for high-end coffee machines, display-worthy cups, and little pots of cinnamon and cacao, all styled like a boutique café?

Instead Kunal suggests creating a curated tray setup on a sideboard or worktop.

“Add a stylish grinder, a stack of linen napkins, and your best mugs,” he adds. “Lighting and layering are key.”

Looking for more interiors inspiration? Take a look at Hurkle durkle interiors: 9 ways to get the cosycore look in your home or Labubu interiors have arrived! 11 ways to embrace ‘cutecore’ in your home

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