Common Interior Design Mistakes You Didn't Know You Were Making and How to Fix Them

Often times, interior design is like trying to bake a cake without a recipe—sure, you might end up with something that resembles dessert, but it could also be a lopsided mess that no one wants to eat (or in this case, live in). We’ve all been there: you excitedly paint your walls a trendy color, only to realize it looks more like a giant avocado than a chic living space. But, before you get too down on yourself for perhaps a questionable color choice, I'm here to tell you many of us unknowingly make design blunders that can turn our cozy nests into chaotic caves. If you’re ready to transform your home from “What was I thinking?” to “Wow, this is fabulous!” keep reading to uncover common mistakes and how to fix them without breaking a sweat—or your budget.

Overlooking Scale and Proportion

One frequent mistake in interior design is not paying attention to the scale and proportion of furniture and decor. For instance, purchasing a large sectional sofa for a cozy living room can make it feel cramped, while a small coffee table can get lost in a spacious family room.

To avoid this pitfall, measure your room before shopping for new furniture. For example, if your living room is 12x15 feet, consider a sofa that is no longer than 70 inches wide to ensure there is enough space for movement (you, ideally, want to leave around 3' - minimum - for traffic to comfortably move about a space). Use painter’s tape to outline where each piece will go; this simple trick helps visualize the layout and ensures everything fits harmoniously. Measure twice, buy once!

A cozy living room showcasing perfect scale and proportion.

Ignoring Lighting

Lighting is a crucial element that can transform any space - it's also an element that often easily gets overlooked or understated. Rooms with inadequate lighting can appear small and uninviting, while overly bright spaces can feel harsh. A common oversight is relying only on overhead lighting.

To improve your lighting, aim for a layered approach. Combine ambient lighting (like ceiling fixtures), task lighting (such as reading lamps), and accent lighting (like decorative wall sconces). For example, a mix of a stylish floor lamp, table lamps, and soft overhead lights can create depth and warmth.

Don't forget to embrace natural light! Keeping window treatments light helps sunlight flow in, making your space more inviting. After all, who needs a mood ring when you have sunlight? Natural light is not only a significant mood and productivity booster, but it also makes the colors in your space more vibrant. It's like having a personal cheerleader for your décor, showcasing their true properties and characteristics. So, let the sunshine in and watch your room shine in more ways than one!

Different lighting elements in a bright living room that create an inviting space.

Choosing the Wrong Color Palette

Color plays a significant role in shaping the mood of a room. Many people make the mistake of picking clashing colors, creating a chaotic atmosphere. For instance, a vibrant red against an orange wall can feel erratic and overwhelming if you're going for a more relaxed vibe.

To create a cohesive look, consider using the 60-30-10 rule for color balance: use one dominant color for 60% of the space, a secondary color for 30%, and an accent color for the remaining 10%. For example, if you choose a soft gray as the dominant color, consider navy blue as the secondary and mustard yellow as an accent. These combinations can evoke calmness or energy, depending on your preference and the goals of your space.

Forgetting About Functionality

One common mistake is focusing too much on design without considering how a space will be used, which can compromise its functionality. For example, a visually stunning sofa might look great but could be as comfortable as sitting on a pile of bricks if it has a hard or rough sitting surface or deep seating. Sure, it might be Instagram-worthy, but your guests will be more concerned about their backs than your impeccable taste! It’s essential to balance aesthetics with comfort—because no one wants to be the host responsible for turning their living room into a medieval torture chamber.

To ensure your space works as well as it looks, invest in functional furniture. Multi-purpose pieces, such as a sofa bed or an ottoman with storage, can save space and add convenience. Additionally, consider how you use your space daily. Arranging furniture in a circle can foster conversation, making it a welcoming setup for gatherings. On the other hand, placing furniture against walls can make a small room feel larger. Just be mindful with this latter approach; while it can create a sense of openness, it may also come across as uninviting if not done thoughtfully.

A stylish storage ottoman serving dual purposes in a modern living space.

Clutter and Overdecorating

Overdecorating can overwhelm a space, detract from its charm, and make it hard to decipher what it's focal point should be. A home flooded with decor can feel chaotic, while an empty room can seem lifeless and boring. Finding the right equilibrium is essential.

To achieve this balance, embrace the "less is more" philosophy. Select a few standout pieces that resonate with you, such as a large painting or an artisan vase. Additionally, consider smart storage solutions, like decorative boxes or shelves that help keep clutter at bay while allowing for some display items.

Ignoring the Ceiling

Many people don't know the fun fact that the ceiling is frequently regarded as the "fifth wall," and it can significantly influence the overall appearance of a room. A plain ceiling can lessen the impact of stunning furnishings while an overly emphasized ceiling can overpower the rest of the design.

Enhancing your ceiling's appeal is simple. You might paint it a contrasting color, such as a soft blue to stand out against white walls, or add wood paneling for warmth and character. Installing striking light fixtures, like a chic chandelier, can also direct attention upward, creating a sense of spaciousness. Some people choose wallpapered ceilings, though opinions in the interior design community are still mixed on this choice!

A cozy sitting room featuring a wallpapered ceiling

Skipping the Personal Touch

One of the most common design blunders is neglecting to sprinkle a little personality into your decor. We all dream of that Pinterest-perfect room that looks like it was plucked from a magazine, but let’s be real—it often feels more like a sterile museum than a cozy home. A space filled with generic items can feel as inviting as a cold cup of coffee!

So, why not jazz it up with elements that scream "you"? Think family photos that capture those embarrassing moments, quirky artwork from local talent, or those charming souvenirs from your travels that always spark a smile. These treasures not only beautify your space but also weave a tapestry of memories and emotions. Remember, your home should tell your unique story—both the chapters already written and the exciting adventures yet to come!

Wrapping Up

Recognizing these common interior design mistakes can lead to a more stylish, functional, and inviting home. Interior design is a continuous journey where you can learn and express yourself. What's more, a space (much like ourselves) is never truly finished - it should evolve with you! By addressing these small issues, you'll significantly enhance the ambiance and practicality of your space.

Enjoy the process!

-Kiana