As a professional interior designer, I’ve seen it all—the good, the bad, and the downright puzzling.
While there’s no single “right” way to decorate a space, there are some common design mistakes that can make even the most thoughtfully designed room fall flat.
Photo credit: S3T Koncepts
Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or hiring a professional, knowing what to avoid is just as important as knowing what to do.
So, let’s dive into the top interior design mistakes and how to steer clear of them.
1. Choosing Paint Color First
One of the most common mistakes I see is choosing the paint color before anything else.
It’s easy to understand why: paint is usually one of the least expensive elements to change, and it can feel like the logical first step. However, it’s actually much better to start with your furniture, fabrics, and textiles.
Why?
Because it’s easier to match your paint to your furnishings than the other way around. I recommend narrowing down your color palette after you’ve chosen your key pieces, so everything flows seamlessly.
Photo credit: Pixabay
2. Ignoring Scale and Proportion
Have you ever walked into a room where the furniture seems too big or too small for the space?
That’s an issue with scale and proportion. This is one of the most crucial principles of design, and getting it wrong can throw off the balance of your entire room.
Always take measurements of your space before buying furniture, and consider the size of each piece relative to the room and to each other. For example, if you have a large sectional sofa, balance it with an appropriately sized coffee table and side tables.
Photo credit: Pixabay
3. Pushing All Furniture Against the Walls
Many people believe that placing all the furniture against the walls makes a room look larger. While that can sometimes be true in small spaces, it often leads to a lack of warmth and cohesion.
Pulling your furniture away from the walls creates a more inviting layout and encourages conversation.
Don’t be afraid to float your sofa or chairs in the center of the room; it can actually make the space feel more dynamic and well-designed.
4. Poor Lighting Choices
Lighting is one of the most overlooked aspects of interior design, but it’s also one of the most important.
A well-lit room has a variety of light sources that serve different purposes, from ambient and task lighting to accent lighting. Relying solely on overhead lighting can make a room feel cold and sterile.
To create a warm and inviting atmosphere, layer your lighting with floor lamps, table lamps, and even candles. Don’t forget to consider natural light too—position mirrors to reflect light and brighten up the space.
Photo credit: Lisa Fotios
5. Following Trends Blindly
Trends can be fun, but they can also be fleeting. It’s easy to get caught up in the latest design craze, but filling your home with trendy pieces that might be out of style in a year or two is a risky move.
Instead, I recommend focusing on timeless designs and incorporating trends in small, easily changeable ways, like through accessories or accent pieces. This way, your space remains stylish yet flexible, adapting to changing tastes over time.
6. Overdecorating or Undecorating
Finding the right balance between too much and too little decor can be tricky.
Overdecorating a space can make it feel cluttered and overwhelming, while under decorating can leave it feeling sterile and unfinished.
The key is to strike a balance with thoughtful pieces that reflect your personality. A well-curated space tells a story and feels like a true reflection of those who live in it. Remember, less is more—but not to the point of being sparse.
Photo credit: S3T Koncepts
7. Ignoring Functionality
No matter how beautiful a room is, if it doesn’t serve its intended purpose, it’s not well-designed. Always think about how you’ll use the space on a daily basis.
Is your living room set up for conversation and relaxation? Does your kitchen have a practical layout for cooking?
Functionality should never take a back seat to aesthetics. A well-designed room marries form and function, creating a space that’s both beautiful and livable.
Interior design is a delicate balance of art and science. While there are no strict rules, avoiding these common mistakes can make a significant difference in creating a space that feels cohesive, comfortable, and inviting. Whether you’re a design newbie or a seasoned pro, keep these tips in mind to create a home that truly reflects your style and meets your needs.
And remember—sometimes the best design decisions come from breaking the rules, but it’s crucial to know the rules first!
Until next time, happy designing!
xo Amy
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*Parts of this blog were written by ChatGPT.
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