11 Decor Faux Pas That Instantly Diminish Your Room’s Appeal—Insights from Designers
Navigating the world of interior design can be daunting, especially when it comes to making your space feel inviting and well put together. Common mistakes—from rug size to color palettes—can transform your carefully curated home into a decorating disaster. We consulted top interior designers to unearth the most prevalent tacky decor choices that you should steer clear of, along with their expert advice on how to enhance your space instead.
Meet the Experts
- Erin Williamson: Founder of Erin Williamson Design in Austin, TX.
- Christina Kim: Principal designer and owner of Christina Kim Interior Design in New Jersey.
- Jojo Barr: Interior designer and founder of House Nine Design Studio in London.
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1. Using the TV as the Focal Point
“There’s no denying that a TV is a staple in most living rooms,” says Erin Williamson. However, arranging your furniture to revolve around this "black mirror" can feel lackluster. Instead, opt for swivel chairs to give your seating a more flexible arrangement. This way, you can pivot away from the screen when it’s not in use.
2. Blank White Walls
A stark room painted entirely in white can feel cold and uninviting. Erin suggests that instead of painting your walls white, consider mid-tone paints to complement your furnishings or dive into deeper, moodier tones for a cozy vibe.
3. The Wrong Drapes
Drapes can make or break a room. Guards against tackiness by avoiding shiny fabrics like silk in casual settings. Williamson recommends neutral oatmeal tones for a sophisticated look that won’t detract from your decor.
4. Too Much Tiny Furniture
Having an abundance of tiny furniture will ultimately make your room feel smaller and crowded. “Clear out the clutter and choose one large piece to anchor your space,” suggests Erin. Introduce a mix of varying sizes in surrounding furnishings to create depth.
5. Overly Saturated Light Blue
While pastel blues are often favored for children’s rooms, over-saturation can lead to an overly bright and tacky ambiance. Erin advises softening icy shades by introducing a small drop of green to keep them friendly.
6. Undersized Rugs
A rug that’s too small for your space can create a choppy, unbalanced look. Christina Kim suggests that all furniture legs either be on the rug or off it completely, ensuring a harmonious appearance throughout the room.
7. Skimpy Gallery Walls
“When it comes to gallery walls, it’s essential to go big or go home,” says Christina. Make sure to include enough art pieces to fill the wall correctly and consider unifying elements like matching frames for consistency.
8. Monotone Metals
Using only one metal finish throughout your space can feel dated. “Don’t shy away from mixing metals and finishes,” Christina encourages. This practice adds layers and visual interest to your decor.
9. Overly Short Curtains
Jojo Barr warns against short curtains, stating they can appear harsh and unfinished. Opt for curtains that touch the floor for a polished look or consider roman blinds as a tasteful alternative.
10. All-Gray Decor
An all-gray color scheme can feel flat and uninviting. Instead, Jojo recommends choosing an earthy palette to create a warm, timeless space that resonates with nature.
11. Glass Coffee Tables
"Glass coffee tables often evoke a corporate, cold feel," notes Barr. Choosing a natural wood option instead provides warmth and creates a cozy environment.
By taking note of these common decorating pitfalls and heeding the advice from our expert designers, you’re well on your way to creating a home that exudes both style and comfort. For more insights and professional tips, read the original article on The Spruce.
