Interior Designers Share Their Biggest Pet Peeves—Are You Guilty of These? (Tips for Interior Design)
When you spend enough time around interior designers, you quickly realize they have a long list of things that make them cringe. From common decorating mistakes to outdated trends, designers have strong opinions about what works—and what absolutely doesn’t. Whether it's awkward furniture placement, uninspired color choices, or poorly executed DIYs, there are certain things they simply can’t stand.
If you want to create a home that looks polished and put together, it’s essential to know what NOT to do. That’s why we’re breaking down the biggest pet peeves that drive interior designers up the wall—along with better alternatives to make your space look professionally styled.
Ahead, find out the biggest interior design no-nos and how to fix them. Want even more expert guidance? Keep reading for the best tips for interior design from the pros.
1. Tips for Interior Design: Avoiding the "Showroom Look"
One of the biggest mistakes interior designers see is when a home looks like it was lifted straight from a furniture store showroom. Buying everything from one place might seem like an easy way to create a cohesive look, but it often results in a space that feels flat, uninspired, and overly matchy-matchy.
What to Do Instead:
Mix and match different furniture styles, finishes, and textures to create a more personalized and layered look. Combine vintage finds with modern pieces, or mix materials like wood, metal, and glass for added depth. A well-designed home should feel curated over time, not like it was purchased in one afternoon.
2. Tips for Interior Design: Overlooking Scale and Proportion
A tiny rug in a large living room. A massive sectional that overpowers the space. A gallery wall with artwork that’s way too small. These are all classic examples of getting scale and proportion wrong, and it’s something that drives designers crazy.
What to Do Instead:
Before purchasing furniture or decor, measure your space and think about balance. Rugs should be large enough to anchor furniture, sofas should fit the scale of the room, and wall art should be appropriately sized (hint: go bigger than you think!). Playing with proportion is key to a well-balanced design.
3. Tips for Interior Design: Going Overboard With Trends
It’s easy to get caught up in the latest home decor trends, but designers caution against going all-in on something that might feel outdated in a year. Think about the farmhouse craze—shiplap and barn doors were everywhere, but now they feel overdone.
What to Do Instead:
Incorporate trends in small doses, like with accessories or paint colors, rather than making permanent design choices. Stick to timeless foundational pieces and update your space with trend-driven decor that’s easy to swap out.
4. Tips for Interior Design: Neglecting the Entryway
The entryway sets the tone for your entire home, yet it’s often the most overlooked space. Designers can’t stand when a home lacks a functional and inviting entryway.
What to Do Instead:
Create a stylish and practical entryway by adding a console table, a mirror, and some decorative elements. If space allows, include a bench or storage for shoes and coats. A well-designed entryway makes your home feel more put together from the moment you walk in.
5. Tips for Interior Design: Using Harsh, Cold Lighting
Overly bright, bluish-white LED bulbs can make a home feel sterile and unwelcoming. Interior designers always emphasize the importance of warm, layered lighting.
What to Do Instead:
Opt for warm white bulbs (2700K-3000K) and use a mix of light sources, such as table lamps, floor lamps, sconces, and pendant lights. Adding dimmers can also enhance the ambiance. Lighting should be soft, flattering, and adjustable for different moods.
6. Tips for Interior Design: Ignoring Window Treatments
Bare windows or cheap-looking blinds are a major interior design faux pas. They make a space feel unfinished and lack the warmth and polish that well-chosen window treatments provide.
What to Do Instead:
Invest in quality curtains or Roman shades to add softness and style. Choose fabrics and colors that complement your space, and make sure curtains are hung high and wide to make windows appear larger.
7. Tips for Interior Design: Overcrowding Surfaces With Clutter
Too many small decorative items can make a space feel chaotic rather than curated. Designers often see coffee tables, mantels, and shelves overcrowded with tiny trinkets that lack cohesion.
What to Do Instead:
Embrace the "less is more" approach. Use a combination of books, vases, candles, and sculptural pieces, but keep it balanced. Larger statement pieces often look better than lots of small objects.
8. Tips for Interior Design: Pushing Furniture Against the Walls
A common mistake is placing all the furniture up against the walls, leaving a big empty space in the middle of the room. While this might seem like a way to maximize space, it actually makes a room feel awkward and disconnected.
What to Do Instead:
Float furniture away from the walls, even if it’s just a few inches. Create intentional seating arrangements that encourage conversation and make the space feel cozier.
9. Tips for Interior Design: Neglecting Outdoor Spaces
Interior designers don’t just care about the inside of a home—your outdoor spaces matter too! A bare, uninviting patio or balcony is a wasted opportunity.
What to Do Instead:
Treat your outdoor space like an extension of your home. Add comfortable seating, rugs, plants, and lighting to create a cozy, stylish retreat. Even a small balcony can be transformed into a functional oasis with the right elements.
10. Tips for Interior Design: Choosing the Wrong Paint Finish
Color isn’t the only important factor when choosing paint—finish matters too. A glossy sheen in the wrong place can highlight imperfections, while flat finishes can be difficult to clean.
What to Do Instead:
Use the right paint finishes for different spaces. Matte or eggshell finishes are great for walls, while semi-gloss or satin works best for trim and doors. High-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms should have a finish that’s easy to clean.
FAQs: Tips for Interior Design
Q: What is the biggest mistake people make in interior design?A: One of the most common mistakes is playing it too safe—whether with color, furniture, or layout. A well-designed space should have personality, contrast, and thoughtful details.
Q: How can I make my home look professionally styled?A: Focus on layering textures, mixing styles, and adding elements like statement lighting, quality textiles, and curated decor. Avoid overly matchy furniture sets and invest in pieces with character.
Q: Do I need an interior designer to create a stylish home?A: While hiring a designer can help, you can achieve a polished look by following key design principles and avoiding common mistakes.
Need Help With Your Interior or Exterior Design?
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