8 Design Items That Are Total Money-Wasters
When it comes to home decor, less is often more. Interior designers have a great eye for spotting decor that may seem appealing but ultimately turns out to be nothing more than an expensive mistake. In this article, we’ll explore eight notorious money-wasters that designers wish you’d steer clear of, ensuring you get the most bang for your buck.
1. Overly Trendy Pieces
One of the most significant pitfalls in home decorating is opting for ultra-trendy items.
Whitney Ray, founder of Wyeth Ray Interiors, cautions, "Styles that feel current today can quickly appear dated." This sentiment is echoed by Tracy Morris of Tracy Morris Design, who highlights how fast-fading color schemes and gimmicky wall art can leave your space looking stale.
If you’re tempted to jump on the trend wagon, Ray advises, "Incorporate smaller, trend-forward accents, but be cautious with larger investment pieces like sofas or dining tables."
2. Mass-Produced Pieces
While it can be convenient to pick up decor from big box stores, mass-produced items often lack the character and depth that a well-thought-out home decor strategy deserves.
Alex Kober, junior interior designer at TriVistaUSA Design + Build, says, “Home decor should reflect the personas and stories of the people living in them.” Choosing unique, meaningful pieces instead of cookie-cutter alternatives can enrich your space significantly.
Arianne Bellizaire of Arianne Bellizaire Interiors agrees: "Every item you bring into your home should earn its place—offering comfort, function, or a meaningful connection."
3. Excessive Holiday Decor
While decorating for the holidays can be fun, turning your home into a holiday medley can quickly backfire.
Kober suggests a more subtle approach: “Accent your home during the holiday season with a few accessories that nod to the occasion but complement your everyday decor.” Striking a balance allows for seasonal flair without overwhelming your space.
4. Low-Quality Products
In the realm of furniture and decor, cheap often means expensive. Investing in low-quality items might save you money upfront but will likely lead to more costly replacements down the line.
Molly Kunselman, founder of Molly Kunselman Design, emphasizes, “Cheaper items usually wear out quickly and need to be replaced sooner.” Spending a bit more on quality pieces is a wiser long-term investment.
5. Poorly Made Rugs
Your choice of rugs can have a significant impact on your room’s overall feel.
Jessica Bandstra of Dogwood Proper advises, "Wait until you can invest in the best quality you can afford." Avoid inexpensive rugs that wear out quickly and shed excessively, especially those made from materials like viscose, which Ray cautions can permanently stain easily. 🌟 Opt for wool rugs, known for their resilience and timeless beauty.
6. Poufs
Though poufs had their moment in the spotlight, many designers have moved on from this trendy but often impractical decor item.
Thea Bloch-Neal, founder of Curated by Thea, bluntly states, “No one actually wants to sit on them, and they don’t serve as functional surfaces for drinks.” Consider a stylish vintage stool or a unique side table that strikes a balance between form and function.
7. Cluttered Knick-Knacks
Knick-knacks may seem like an easy way to personalize your space, but too many can cheapen your design.
Danielle Domingues, founder of Collins & Co. Interiors, believes that “over-decorating with knick-knacks can dilute the overall aesthetic.” Instead, invest in a few thoughtfully selected pieces that enhance your home’s personality and visual appeal.
8. Ultra-Fake Looking Faux Florals
Last but not least, poorly made faux florals can be a visual blunder.
Kober warns against low-quality options: “These just gather dust and look cheap.” If you lack a green thumb, aim for high-quality faux arrangements that mimic the beauty of real plants—after all, they should enhance your decor, not detract from it.
Final Thoughts
By avoiding these eight money-wasting design items, you’ll not only enhance the visual appeal of your home but also invest in pieces that tell your story and stand the test of time. Make thoughtful choices in your decor and remember: quality over quantity for a stylish and timeless living space.
