Decorating your home is an exciting and fun task, but it can also be challenging, especially if you don’t have any experience in interior design. It’s easy to make mistakes when decorating your home, but luckily, most of these mistakes are avoidable. In this blog post, we will discuss the most common decorating mistakes people make and provide tips on how to avoid them.

Introduction to Common Decorating Mistakes

Decorating mistakes can happen to anyone, regardless of their experience in interior design. Even professional interior designers make mistakes occasionally. However, some mistakes are more common than others. Here are some of the most frequent decorating mistakes that you can avoid when dressing up your space:

Overcrowding a Space

green home decor

One of the most common decorating mistakes is overcrowding a space. Many people believe that having more furniture and decor in a room makes it look better. However, this is not true. Overcrowding a space can make it feel cramped and cluttered. It’s essential to ensure that every piece of furniture and decor has a purpose in the room and that there is enough space between each item.

Choosing a small area rug

Alright, before you check out that cute little area rug, hear this out first. One of the common decorating mistakes that date your home is choosing an area rug that is too small or isn’t proportional to the size of the furniture.

The general rule is that the furniture should be sitting on top of the rug, or at least the two front legs if this isn’t possible. However, this doesn’t mean that the rug should be overly large for the furniture pieces. It’s best to measure the space first before purchasing your rug.

Using too much throw pillows

green throw pillows

Throw pillows are fun additions to your living space and can be used as decorative accents. However, refrain from adding a lot to the point that you need to move them out of the way every time you sit or lie down.

Ignoring the Importance of Lighting

Lighting is an essential aspect of interior design that many people overlook. Good lighting can transform a room, making it look more spacious, brighter, and inviting. On the other hand, poor lighting can make a room look dull and uninviting. It’s important to consider the natural light that enters the room and the type of artificial lighting you use like floor lamps or sconces. Avoid relying too much on overhead lighting.

One natural source of lighting are your windows. Aside from that, they provide great views of nature outside. Adding window treatments that match the mood of the space enhances the overall look of the room!

Choosing the Wrong Color Palette

Choosing the right color palette is crucial when decorating a home. The wrong colors can make a room look dull and unappealing. It’s important to choose colors that complement each other and create a cohesive look. It’s also essential to consider the mood you want to create in the room. And most importantly, the colors should coordinate and complement each other.

Not Considering the Room’s Purpose

Every room in your home has a purpose, and it’s essential to consider this purpose when decorating. For example, a bedroom should be a relaxing space, while a home office should be a functional space. It’s important to choose furniture and decor that aligns with the room’s purpose.

Hanging Artwork and Decor Incorrectly

hanging painting

Hanging artwork and decor incorrectly is a common mistake people make when decorating their homes. Artwork should be hung at eye level, and the size of the artwork should be proportional to the wall it’s on. It’s also important to consider the placement of other items in the room, such as furniture, when hanging artwork and decor.

Buying Furniture That Doesn’t Fit the Space

Buying furniture that doesn’t fit the space is a mistake that many people make. Adding large furniture in a small space makes the room feel cramped and unbalanced. It’s essential to measure the space before buying all the furniture you need and choose pieces that fit the room’s size and shape.

Another decorating habit to avoid is pushing furniture against the walls, especially in the living rooms and family rooms. Here’s a trick: opt for smaller pieces like a coffee table surrounded by chairs to create that ‘conversation atmosphere’

Neglecting to Incorporate Texture

Texture is an important aspect of interior design that many people overlook. Incorporating texture into a room can add depth and interest. It’s important to consider different textures when choosing furniture, decor, and textiles for a room.

Not Updating Decor Over Time

Decorating your home is not a one-time task. Over time, your tastes and preferences may change, and it’s important to update your decor accordingly. Neglecting to update your decor can make your home look outdated and uninviting.

How to Avoid These Common Decorating Mistakes

Now that we’ve discussed the most common decorating mistakes, let’s talk about how to avoid them. Here are some tips to help you avoid these mistakes:

Plan Before You Decorate

Before you start decorating, take the time to plan. Consider the purpose of the room, the colors you want to use, and the furniture and decor you need. Having a plan will help you avoid making impulsive decisions that can lead to decorating mistakes.

Measure Your Space

Measure your space before buying furniture and decor. This will ensure that everything fits the room’s size and shape correctly.

Consider the Room’s Purpose

Consider the purpose of the room when choosing furniture and decor. This will help you create a space that is functional and comfortable.

Choose a Cohesive Color Palette

Choose a cohesive color palette that compliments each other and creates the mood you want to achieve in the room.

Use Lighting to Your Advantage

Use lighting to your advantage by considering the natural light that enters the room and the type of artificial lighting you use. Good lighting can transform a room and create a welcoming and inviting atmosphere.

Hang Artwork and Decor Correctly

Hang artwork and decor correctly by considering the size of the piece and the placement of other items in the room. Artwork should be hung at eye level, and the size of the piece should be proportional to the wall it’s on.

Incorporate Texture

Incorporate texture into a room by using different textiles and materials. This will add depth and interest to the space. Make sure all the details align and complement well with each other.

Prioritize Comfort Over Style

At the end of the day, your home should be the number one place that can give you comfort and relaxation after a long, tiring day. With that being said, prioritize functionality and comfort over style and design.

Finishing Touches

Decorating your home is a fun and exciting task, but it can also be challenging. By avoiding these common decorating mistakes and following our tips, you can create a space that is functional, comfortable, and inviting. Remember to plan before you decorate, measure your space, and consider the room’s purpose before adding any home decor.

With these tips, you can create a home that reflects your style and personality!