Creating a beautiful and functional space is exciting, but even small mistakes can throw off the entire look and feel. Whether you’re redesigning your home or starting from scratch, it’s easy to miss key details. In this guide, we’ll cover 15 common interior design mistakes and simple fixes to help you create a stylish and practical space.
1. Filling Up the Space Too Much
Putting too much furniture in a room can make it feel crowded and messy.
What to Do Instead:
Choose only essential furniture and leave some empty space to keep the room balanced. In a small studio apartment, use a compact sofa and a coffee table with hidden storage to save space.
2. Poor Lighting Choices
Using only one ceiling light can make a room feel dull and flat.
Brighten It Up:
Use different types of lighting: general lights, work lights, and decorative lights. For example, in a home office, use a ceiling light, a desk lamp for work, and a floor lamp in the corner to add warmth.
3. Picking the Wrong Paint Color
Choosing a paint color from a tiny swatch or just following trends can lead to disappointment.
A Better Approach:
Test large paint samples on your walls and see how they look in different lighting. A dark navy blue might look great on a swatch but feel too heavy in a dimly lit room. Try a lighter blue-grey for a fresher feel.
Picking the right paint color depends on your overall style. If you’re unsure, explore Different Types of Interior Design Styles to match colors with your desired aesthetic.
4.Lining Furniture Against the Walls
Pushing all the furniture against the walls can make the room feel empty and boring.
Design a Welcoming Layout:
Pull some furniture away from the walls to create cozy areas for talking. In a large living room, place two sofas facing each other with a coffee table in the middle.
5. Ignoring the Right Size and Balance
Using furniture that is too big or too small for the room can make it feel off-balance.
Find the Right Fit:
Measure your room and pick furniture that matches the size of the space. In a small living room, choose a mid-sized sofa and a couple of small chairs instead of a huge sectional.
6. Not Enough Storage
A messy room with no storage options quickly loses its charm.
Incorporate Smart Storage:
Use smart storage like shelves, ottomans with storage inside, or beds with drawers underneath. In a kid’s room, beds with storage drawers can help keep toys off the floor.
7. Too Many Patterns or Textures
Mixing too many patterns can make a room look confusing and busy.
Keep It Balanced:
Follow the “60-30-10” rule: 60% for your main color, 30% for a secondary color, and 10% for accents. For example, use a plain-colored sofa with patterned pillows and a textured rug to keep things balanced.
8. Hanging Art Too High or Too Low
Art hung at the wrong height can make a room feel off.
Hang It Right:
Hang art so the middle is at eye level (about 145-155 cm from the floor). In a dining room, hang art at the right height for people sitting down.
9. Skipping Curtains or Blinds
Bare windows can make a room look unfinished.
Add the Finishing Touch:
Add curtains, blinds, or drapes. In a bedroom, sheer white curtains can let in light while still giving you privacy.
10. Forgetting Personal Touches
Rooms without personal items can feel cold and unwelcoming.
Make It Yours:
Add family photos, artwork, or things you love. In a home office, a wall of framed travel photos can inspire creativity and make the space feel personal.
11. Ignoring How You Use the Room
Not thinking about the purpose of the room can make it useless.
Think Function First:
Make sure the design matches the room's purpose. In a kitchen, not having enough counter space can be frustrating. Add an island or shelves to fix this.
12. Choosing Looks Over Comfort
Picking trendy but uncomfortable furniture makes rooms hard to enjoy.
Strike a Balance:
Balance style with comfort. A stylish sofa isn’t worth it if it’s too stiff to sit on. Always test furniture before buying.
13. No Design Plan
Starting without a plan can lead to wasted money and mismatched decor.
Plan Ahead:
Create a mood board with your color scheme, layout, and must-have items before shopping. This helps you stick to a clear plan.
14. Blocking Pathways
Placing furniture in a way that blocks walkways makes rooms hard to move around in.
Ensure Easy Flow:
Make sure there’s enough space to walk comfortably. Leave at least 90 cm of space around furniture and tables.
15. Missing a Focal Point
Rooms without a main focus can feel random and confusing.
Create a Centerpiece:
Create a clear focal point like a fireplace, large artwork, or an accent wall. In a living room, a big painting above the sofa can tie everything together.
Conclusion
Designing a home that’s both beautiful and practical is all about balance. By avoiding these interior design mistakes, you can create a space that feels welcoming and works well for you. Thoughtful choices and personal touches can make a big difference.
Which of these mistakes have you made? Share your thoughts or reach out to Cohere for professional advice — let’s create your perfect home!
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