Stop Making These Design Mistakes (And Do This Instead!)

When I think back to my first apartment, I physically cringe. It’s safe to say, I have made plenty of design mistakes along the way. My style is still evolving but through my work, I have learned a lot about what makes a great design and what doesn’t. If you have made any of the design mistakes below, don’t worry! I have easy and budget-friendly solutions that will quickly transform your home.

Disclaimer! These are just my opinions! If you like any of the “mistakes” I’ve listed, that’s totally okay. Design is personal and your home should reflect your own unique style.

One. Buying matching furniture sets.

We’ve all seen the ads for the local furniture store that’s selling the matching bedroom set or couch and loveseat. These sets might seem like the answer if you want a cohesive design, but I’m here to say these are not the solution! Creating a curated space takes time but the result is worth the effort. Remember to mix-and-match textures and materials to build depth and visual interest. This does take some practice, so if you’re ever not sure if a piece would fit into your design, take note of any undertones (warm vs. cool); this is especially helpful when working with wood.

Designer Tips:

Use two different nightstands for asymmetry

Vary your materials (natural woods, bamboo, rattan, painted, etc.)

Mix-and-match patterns

Two. Shying away from color.

If there’s anything I’m guilty of, it’s being terrified of color. Maybe it’s a commitment issue; what if I hate that red Turkish rug in a month?? I’ve had to be quite honest with myself and realize that the all-white design can sometimes lack personality. If you also suffer from the same fear of color, start by adding in decor with bright hues. Art is the perfect way to do this! Pillows, throw blankets, small area rugs, and vases are also amazing options. They’re less of a commitment than say, a green wall color, but still have a big impact.

Three. Purchasing kitschy decor items from Home Goods.

Home Goods is the mecca of affordable home decor: throw blankets, pillows, rugs, table lamps, kitchen wares, they pretty much have it all. Like most, I’ve been caught in the trap of going a little crazy and over-purchasing. I could write a whole post just about what I think is worth your money at places like Home Goods or Target but asking yourself these questions when shopping will help make the process easier:

Designer Ideas For Unique Purchases:

• Flea markets, thrift stores, and antique stores are great and often affordable places to find one-of-a-kind decor items

• Use what you have! Take the jackets off of books for a more curated shelf, paint picture frames an aged brass, hang hats on a wall, display family heirlooms or jewelry, etc.

Four. Choosing the wrong rug size.

So often I have worked with clients who have selected the wrong rug size for their space. I like to think of rugs as an anchor; they help ground a space and can be especially important for defining areas in an open floor plan. The rule of thumb is that the rug should fit under the front legs of furniture, like your sofa or bedframe. They do not have to fit completely under all your pieces.

Designer Hack. Rugs can get pricey so if there’s a particular option you’ve been eyeing but can’t afford in the proper size, have no fear! Use a cheaper rug in a neutral color and material, like jute, and layer your desired piece over the top.

Five. Hanging Curtain Rods to Low

A lot of tricks designers use in their spaces are all about creating an illusion. Curtains can make a big difference in a room. They frame windows, add texture, and can even make your ceilings seem higher! Usually, I recommend hanging curtain rods 6″ above the window frame (if you don’t have that much room, hang the rods as high as possible).

At the end of the day, it only matters how your home makes you feel, so trust your gut! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss another design tip. Comment if you will be using any of these solutions!