Interior Design Mistakes You Didn’t Know You Were Making (And How to Fix Them!)

Pushing All Your Furnitures Against the Walls

It might seem like placing furniture against the walls makes a room feel bigger, but it actually does the opposite! This creates a disconnected, awkward layout.

Fix it: Try floating your furniture away from the walls, especially in living rooms. Use a rug to anchor the space and arrange seating to encourage conversation.

Don’t Ignore the Power of Lighting

Lighting is one of the most overlooked elements in design, and a single overhead light won’t do your space justice. Poor lighting can make a room feel flat and uninspired.

Fix it: Layer your lighting! Incorporate a mix of ambient (overhead), task (reading lamps, under-cabinet lights), and accent lighting (wall sconces, decorative lamps) for a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Choosing the Wrong Rug

A tiny rug can throw off the balance of an entire room, making everything feel disconnected and undersized.

Fix it: In a living room, a rug should be large enough that at least the front legs of your furniture sit on it. In a dining room, ensure the rug extends at least 24 inches beyond the edges of the table.

Hanging Artwork Too High or Too Low

If you’ve ever looked at a piece of art and thought, something feels off, chances are it’s hung at the wrong height.

Fix it: The center of your artwork should be at eye level, typically around 57–60 inches from the floor. If you’re grouping multiple pieces, treat them as a single unit and follow the same rule.

Playing It Too Safe with Color

Neutral tones are timeless, but if everything in your home is beige, gray, or white, you might be missing out on some personality! Color isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about emotion, energy, and expression! The right hues can transform a space from bland to breathtaking, setting the perfect mood for every room.

Fix it: Add depth with pops of color through throw pillows, artwork, or even an accent wall. If you're hesitant, start with soft hues like sage green or muted blues.

Matching Everything (Too Much!)

A perfectly coordinated furniture set can make a room look like it came straight from a catalog—but not in a good way.

Fix it: Mix textures, styles, and materials to create a more curated, layered look. Pair modern pieces with vintage finds, or balance sleek furniture with cozy textiles.

Forgetting About Scale and Proportion

A huge sectional in a small living room or tiny nightstands next to a king-size bed can throw off the room’s harmony.

Fix it: Measure before you buy! Ensure your furniture is proportional to the room’s size and other pieces within the space by creating a floor plan prior to buying anything.

Not Adding Enough Personality

A home should feel like you, not just a Pinterest board!

Fix it: Incorporate personal elements—family heirlooms, travel souvenirs, or meaningful art. These details make a house feel like a home.

Neglecting Window Treatments

Bare windows can make a room feel unfinished, while the wrong curtains can weigh a space down.

Fix it: Opt for floor-to-ceiling curtains to make ceilings appear taller. When hanging curtains, place the rod higher than the window frame to create the illusion of more height.

Designing a beautiful and functional space is all about balance. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll create a home that feels stylish, cohesive, and uniquely you.