Interior designers agree that many homeowners fall into predictable patterns when decorating. Avoiding these common mistakes can transform a space from ordinary to elevated. Here’s what the pros say you should stop doing today.
Stop Matching Everything
The biggest mistake many people make is striving for perfect matching. Designers like Tavia Forbes argue that intentional contrast is far more impactful. Instead of brushed gold everywhere, consider mixing aged bronze with matte black, or pairing seemingly disparate pieces like an African stool with an Italian chair.
“Matching is safe; it’s flat. We’re interested in tension—mixing metals, styles, eras.” – Tavia Forbes
This approach creates a richer, more dynamic feel. A carefully curated mix of styles elevates individual pieces. Forbes recounts persuading a client to abandon all-gold finishes, resulting in a more striking and memorable aesthetic.
Don’t Always Prioritize Function Over Beauty
While practicality is important, dismissing beauty entirely is a mistake. Forbes points out that a room’s emotional impact is just as crucial as its functionality. A sculptural light fixture that doesn’t illuminate can still be a powerful statement piece, acting as a focal point and sparking conversation.
The key is to recognize that beauty is functional. It affects how people move through and experience a space. A well-placed, purely aesthetic element can become the most memorable part of a room.
Elevate Your Entryway
Many homeowners neglect the entryway, settling for a purely utilitarian space. Designer John McClain urges people to invest in creating a welcoming and stylish first impression. The entryway isn’t just a pass-through; it’s a statement.
“The entry is the moment that says, ‘Welcome, this is who we are.’” – John McClain
Stylish lighting, furnishings, and décor will set the tone for the entire home. A thoughtfully designed entryway provides a daily mood-boost for residents, not just impressing guests.
In conclusion: Breaking these habits—avoiding obsessive matching, valuing beauty alongside function, and prioritizing the entryway—will create a more intentional, elevated, and emotionally resonant home. These shifts move a space from merely lived in to actively designed.
