When designing a space, there is much to consider and a lot of important decisions to be made—from selecting cohesive tonal and textural patterns to deciding on the style of furniture and coordinating accessories. So it is easy to forget some of the most basic decorating advice about what to do and what not to do. First, some “to-do” interior decorating tips.
Form versus function should really be considered when developing a design plan for a room. Ideally, it is an equal mix of both. The space should be aesthetically pleasing and adhere to your style preferences but also functional. If it is not useful, you run the risk of simply not using the space or becoming frustrated with its lack of functionality. To avoid this problem, ask yourself these simple questions as you start your design plans: What is the purpose of the room? Who will use the space and how often will it be used? What are the must-haves that will make it functional and comfortable? Are there any technical specifications needed?
Once you decide on how form and function will play out in the room, you can start getting more granular, thinking about proper scale and proportion to create a sense of balance and flow. (See photo above of a Latham Interiors design project, which is a great example of the right scale and proportion.) At this stage, think about color, texture, and lighting. Start to develop a design mood board to see what works together and what you gravitate toward. And don’t forget the accessories that can tie the space together.
Of course, there could be pitfalls at various steps in the design process, but we have you covered. Here is a list of some common design errors to avoid.
Misstep #1: Crowding, not curating
Sometimes, less is more. Overcrowding a space with too much furniture and decor can make even the most well-intentioned spaces feel cramped. The fix? Keep what you love, donate what you don’t, and give your treasures the spotlight they deserve.
Misstep #2: Playing it safe
Don’t be afraid of color, patterns, and textures! Incorporate them into the room to add design depth to your surroundings. The end result will be a more inviting, interesting space.
Misstep #3. Misjudging scale
Proper scale is essential. Before you buy, measure and then measure again. Not only length and width, but height! You’re mostly stuck with furniture once it arrives, leaving little to no room for error. So double checking is key.
Misstep #4: Neglecting lighting
Lighting shouldn’t be an afterthought. It is essential to creating the vibe and ambiance of a room. Relying solely on harsh overhead lights is a common mistake. Mix in some table lamps, floor lamps, wall sconces and pendants. Layering your light sources at different heights adds depth and warmth to any room. For example, Anja Michals uses three pendant lights over the island as well as a larger pendant in the eating nook to create the right light scene for this craftsman-style kitchen, shown above.
Misstep #5: Ignoring the impact of negative space
Neglecting negative space is a common design mistake. It's important to remember that empty space can be just as impactful and beautiful as filled space. Leaving areas of the room intentionally empty can create a sense of balance, harmony, and visual rest. Embrace the beauty of negative space and allow it to enhance the overall aesthetic of your design.
Misstep #6: Misunderstanding the power of proportion
Proportion is a key principle of design that is often overlooked. It's crucial to consider the size and scale of furniture and decor items in relation to the room and each other. Choosing pieces that are too large or too small for the space can throw off the visual balance and make the room feel awkward. Pay attention to proportion and ensure that each element harmonizes with the overall design.
Misstep #7: Lacking a cohesive color palette
Just because you like a few hues unfortunately doesn’t always mean they work well together. It's important to establish a cohesive color palette that creates a harmonious and unified design. Select your main color and then add in a few complementary or analogous colors to create a sense of cohesion and visual flow throughout the space. In the room above, note how Cusp Interiors uses grey hues in the couches and rug to complement the green drapes, throw blanket and plant.
Misstep #8: Forgetting about texture
Texture is an often overlooked design element. Varying it adds depth, visual interest, and tactile appeal to a room. You can incorporate different textures through textiles, such as plush rugs, cozy throws, and textured pillows. And also through materials like wood, metal, glass, or stone. Don't be afraid to mix and match.
Misstep #9: Overlooking the importance of accessories
Accessories can really put the finishing touches on a room. However, they are often overlooked or underused. Neglecting to incorporate accessories such as artwork, rugs, throw pillows, and plants can result in a lackluster and incomplete design. Accessories add personality, so don't underestimate their impact on the overall design.
Designing a space is a complex process that requires careful consideration of various elements and principles—and any seasoned interior designer will be well-versed in avoiding mistakes and embracing your vision to, ultimately, create a well-balanced and visually pleasing environment that reflects your personal style and enhances your daily life. Remember, designing a space is a journey, and it's important to enjoy the process and embrace guidance from your interior designer and other pros. Keep these hurdles in the back of your mind as you begin your project, knowing you have reliable resources to turn to at every step of the way. Find your interior designer here.
