5 Common Interior Design Mistakes & How We Fix Them
Interior design is an art that combines aesthetics, functionality, and personal expression. However, even the most well-intentioned design efforts can sometimes go awry. Whether you're a seasoned decorator or a novice, it's easy to fall into common pitfalls that can make a space feel unbalanced, cluttered, or uninspired. The good news? These mistakes are easily fixable with a little guidance. Here are five common interior design mistakes and how to address them:
1. Overcrowding the Space
The Mistake: One of the most frequent errors is filling a room with too much furniture or decor. Overcrowding can make a space feel cramped and overwhelming, rather than inviting and functional.
The Fix: Embrace the concept of "less is more." Or, make sure to group like things in collections to make them look more unified as a whole. Remember, good space is about hierarchy, and finding the right ratio between negative and positive space given your room and aesthetic, will alone improve the chaos of a room. I am not an advocate of “only keep those things that spark joy” when many objects are worth keeping merely for the balance they provide, the proper variety of materials, or mere function. I would definitely say if instead of having many small pieces of furniture, try to go for scale. This way, immediately, your space would feel less cluttered. If you have a small space, opt for multi-functional furniture, like a storage ottoman or a sofa bed, to maximize utility without sacrificing style.
2. Ignoring Scale and Proportion
The Mistake: Furniture that’s too large or too small for a room can throw off the entire balance. A massive sectional in a tiny living room or a petite coffee table in a spacious area can make the space feel awkward and disjointed.
The Fix: Always measure your space before purchasing furniture. Consider the scale of the room and choose pieces that complement its size. For example, in a small room, opt for slim-profile furniture and avoid bulky items. In larger spaces, anchor the room with appropriately sized furniture and use area rugs to define zones.
3. Poor Lighting Choices
The Mistake: Relying solely on one source of light, such as an overhead fixture, can create harsh shadows or leave parts of the room feeling dark and unwelcoming.
The Fix: Layer your lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Combine ambient lighting (overhead lights), task lighting (table lamps or under-cabinet lights), and accent lighting (wall sconces or spotlights) to add depth and dimension. Dimmer switches are also a great addition, allowing you to adjust the mood of the room as needed.
4. Neglecting the Power of Color
The Mistake: Using too many bold colors or sticking to a monotonous palette can make a space feel chaotic or dull. Additionally, ignoring the psychology of color can lead to a room that doesn’t evoke the desired mood.
The Fix: Choose a cohesive color scheme that reflects the mood you want to create. For a calming vibe, opt for soft neutrals or cool tones like blues and greens. For energy and warmth, incorporate warmer hues like yellows or reds. Use the 60-30-10 rule: 60% dominant color, 30% secondary color, and 10% accent color. Don’t be afraid to experiment with textures and patterns to add interest without overwhelming the space.
5. Hanging Artwork Incorrectly
The Mistake: Artwork that’s hung too high, too low, or in the wrong proportion to the wall or furniture can disrupt the visual flow of a room.
The Fix: The general rule of thumb is to hang artwork at eye level, with the center of the piece approximately 57-60 inches from the floor. When hanging art above furniture, ensure it’s no more than 6-8 inches above the piece. For larger walls, consider creating a gallery wall with a mix of frames and sizes to add personality and balance.
Final Thoughts
Interior design is all about creating a space that feels harmonious, functional, and reflective of your personal style. By avoiding these common mistakes and implementing the fixes, you can transform your home into a well-curated sanctuary. Remember, good design doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to feel right. So, take your time, trust your instincts, and enjoy the process of making your space truly your own.
