5 Common Interior Design Mistakes and How to Fix Them

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Let’s face it, good design just makes sense and can greatly impact the look and feel of any space. 

Whether you are experimenting with layout or trying out a new colour in your space,is important to hone in on your own personal design style. It's easy to make mistakes that take away from the intended aesthetic and functionality of your home. Here are 10 common interior design mistakes and how to fix them, 

1. Poor Lighting

Mistake: Relying on a single light source or not layering lighting

This can result in lack of a cohesive look and impact the overall mood you are trying to achieve in the room.

Our Fix:

Incorporate multiple light sources such as ambient, task, and accent lighting. Use floor lamps, table lamps, and sconces to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Achieve the look - This simple set of Set of Two Gold Wall Sconces would be perfect as a layering piece.

2. Ignoring Scale and Proportion

Mistake: Using furniture that is too large or too small for the room can leave it feeling choppy and uncoordinated. 

Fix: Choose furniture that fits the scale of the room. Balance large pieces with smaller ones to create a harmonious look. 

Consider a large sectional or modular armless floor sofa like this Mid Century Modern Loveseat from Amazon. 

3. Cluttered Spaces

Mistake: Over-accessorizing or not having enough storage.

Perhaps the most common and overlooked error made in design. An organized de-cluttered space can create positive flow of air and has a significant impact on mood and well being. 

Fix: Edit accessories and use stylish storage solutions like baskets and built-in shelves to keep spaces organized. Choose multi-functional furniture like this Simple Set of Two Round Wood Coffee Tables and keep surfaces clear of clutter.  

We Got You Covered - See our Blog on the Top Tips for a Minimalist Home 

4. Choosing the Wrong Paint Colour

 Mistake: Selecting a paint color without testing it in the room's lighting.

Fix: The good news is that paint can instantly transform a room and can be changed with minimal effort.

The bad news is ...getting it wrong, can be costly.

An easy way to avoid this is to grab a paint chip set like this one by The Colour Wheel Company or try a tester size pots for a small fee. Also be sure to test paint samples on the walls and observe them at different times of the day before committing. Use this handy Shortcut Angle Sash Paintbrush to help with in process. 

5. Pushing Furniture Against the Walls  or placing at an angle. 

Mistake:

Placing all furniture against the walls, leaving a void in the center or cutting off usable space by angling furniture awkwardly can interrupt the natural flow in a room. 

Fix: Arrange furniture to create intimate conversation areas and leave some space between the furniture and the walls. Place furniture along the natural direction and avoid cutting corners.   

Bonus: Improper Use and size of Area Rugs

Mistake: Using a rug that is too small or big for the space.

Yes, you should find a stylish, functional option for an area rug in your home Like this Vintage Floral Rug which comes in multiple sizes. However, in order to scale a room correctly, it must be an appropriate size to frame your furniture.

Fix: Measure your space before buying and ensure you choose an area rug is large enough to fit under all major pieces of furniture in your seating area. 

See our handy 'Choosing the Right Sized Rug' - reference guide for help choosing the right sizes area rug for your home. 

By addressing these common design mistakes, you can create a more aesthetically pleasing and functional living space.

For more inspiration, check out our Covet List of all our favourite finds 

xo Robyn