Design Mistakes To Avoid From An Interior Designer
We all want our homes to feel stylish, well-curated, and polished. But sometimes, small design missteps can unintentionally downgrade the look of a space. Whether you’re decorating from scratch or refreshing a room, avoiding these common mistakes can help elevate your homes aesthetic and create a more refined and cohesive look.
1. Poorly Fitted Curtains
Nothing makes a space feel more unfinished than curtains that are too short or improperly hung. Hanging your curtains too low or choosing ones that don’t touch the floor can make your ceilings feel lower and the space less considered. Instead, opt for full-length curtains and hang them high, just below the ceiling or cornice to give the illusion of taller windows and a grander space.
2. Matching Everything Too Much
A home that feels like it was lifted straight out of a showroom lacks personality. While coordination is important, overly matching furniture sets and accessories can make a space feel uninspired and generic. Instead, mix materials, textures, and styles to create a more layered, collected-over-time chic look.
3. Ignoring Scale and Proportion
One of the biggest design mistakes is choosing furniture and decor that are the wrong scale for the space. A tiny rug in a large room, oversized furniture in a compact space, or a too-small piece of artwork above a large sofa can throw off the balance. Always consider proportions when designing a room and go for larger rugs that anchor the space, ensure furniture fits comfortably, and opt for statement artwork that fills the wall properly.
4. Cheap or Outdated Lighting
Lighting is one of the most overlooked elements in design, yet it has the power to completely transform a space. Relying on basic builder-grade lighting or fluorescent bulbs can instantly cheapen a room. Invest in well-designed light fixtures, layer your lighting with table lamps and wall sconces, and opt for warm, dimmable bulbs to create ambiance. We always recommend 2700k.
5. Too Many Small Accessories
Clutter can make even the most beautiful space feel chaotic and messy. Filling every surface with small accessories, knick-knacks, and random decor pieces can make your home feel disorganized rather than styled. Instead, curate a few statement pieces, incorporate natural elements like books and ceramics, and allow negative space to create balance.
6. Overlooking Hardware and Finishes
Cheap looking handles, outdated light switches, and generic doorknobs can drag down an otherwise beautiful space. Swapping out basic hardware for high-quality finishes like aged brass, matte bronze, or polished nickel can instantly elevate your interiors without a major investment.
7. Bad Paint Choices
Choosing the wrong paint colour or worse, neglecting to test it first can throw off an entire rooms’ aesthetic. Colours that are too stark, overly trendy, or clash with your furnishings can make a space feel off. Always test samples in different lighting conditions and at different times of day before committing, and opt for timeless neutrals or rich, well-considered shades that enhance the space.
8. Lack of Texture and Layering
A room that lacks texture can feel flat and lifeless. Incorporating layers through textiles like linen curtains, wool rugs, and velvet cushions adds depth and warmth. Mixing materials like wood, metal, and mirror also helps create visual interest and prevents the space from looking one-dimensional.
9. Poor Art Placement
Artwork has the power to elevate a space and pull a scheme together but placed incorrectly, it can have the opposite effect. Hanging art too high, choosing pieces that are too small for the wall, or spacing frames too far apart can make a room feel off-balance. Instead, aim for artwork that fills the space properly. Whether a large-scale statement piece or a well-curated gallery wall. A good rule of thumb is to hang artwork so the centre is at eye level.
10. Not Investing in Key Pieces
While saving money on decor is always a plus, skimping on foundational pieces like a sofa, dining table, or bed frame can make a space feel basic. These are the items you use daily, so investing in quality craftsmanship will not only elevate the look of your home but also ensure longevity and therefore sustainability.
Final Thoughts
Avoiding these common design mistakes can make a huge difference in how your home looks and feels. Thoughtful details, quality materials, and a balanced approach to styling will help create a space that feels luxurious and well put together,
Looking for expert advice on designing a high-end, beautifully styled home? www.sixty3london.com to bring your vision to life.