10 Decorating Mistakes Interior Designers Wish You’d Stop Making

Interior designers don’t just make homes look great—they know the sneaky mistakes that can throw off an entire space. The things they don’t do are just as important as the choices they make, and honestly, some of them might surprise you.

Ever felt like your room was missing something but couldn’t put your finger on it? It might be because of one of these missteps. From avoiding matchy-matchy furniture to rethinking simple details like where you hang your towels, these little insights can completely change how your space comes together.

The best part? You don’t have to be a designer to use these tips. By steering clear of a few common pitfalls, you can make your home feel more thoughtful and pulled together without breaking the bank.

Choose the Right Size for Your Rug

A too-small rug can throw off the entire look of a room. Rugs are meant to ground your space, and their size should complement the layout. Ideally, the front legs of your furniture should sit on the rug, or better yet, the entire piece should fit on it.

When a rug is the right size, it creates a sense of balance and coziness. A rug that’s too small can make the furniture feel disconnected, while the right size pulls everything together in a way that feels intentional and polished.

Add Custom Touches

Custom details can make a room feel one-of-a-kind. It doesn’t have to be complicated—a patterned lampshade or custom curtain panels can go a long way. Even small tweaks, like adding trim to plain curtains or switching out hardware, can elevate a space instantly.

Customizing a few elements ensures your home feels personal and unique. It’s those little touches that help your space stand out while still feeling like a reflection of your personality.

Skip the Trends

Trendy designs might look great today, but they rarely stand the test of time. A home feels more inviting and authentic when it reflects personal style rather than whatever is “hot” right now.

Instead of following the latest fads, focus on what you love and what works for your space. Timeless designs paired with elements that resonate with you will always feel more meaningful than chasing trends that might be outdated in a year.

Double-Check Fabric Patterns

Patterned fabrics can add a lot of character, but they can also create challenges if you don’t check the repeat. The repeat—the way the pattern aligns across the fabric—can affect how much material you’ll need and how the final design comes together.

Unexpected repeats or borders can throw off your plan, so it’s worth reviewing the details before committing. This simple step can save you time, money, and unnecessary headaches later on.

Don’t Forget the Final Layer

The finishing touches in a room can make all the difference. Once the big pieces like furniture and rugs are in place, it’s time to focus on accessories—art, pillows, and personal items that bring warmth and character to the space.

A thoughtfully styled shelf or a well-placed throw blanket can make a room feel complete. It’s the smaller details that add texture, personality, and a sense of home to any design.

Don’t Buy All Your Furniture From One Place

Rooms that look like they came straight out of a catalog can feel flat and uninspired. The best spaces are layered with furniture and decor collected over time. Mixing in vintage or antique finds adds character and makes the room feel more personal.

Instead of buying a full set from one store, try sourcing pieces from different places. A modern sofa paired with a reclaimed wood coffee table or an antique sideboard creates a look that’s unique and interesting. It’s all about making the space feel like it has a story, not just a price tag.

Don’t Be Afraid to Take Risks

Safe design choices might feel comfortable, but they rarely stand out. Adding a bold pattern, an unexpected paint color, or a unique light fixture can transform a space into something memorable.

Think about small ways to step outside your comfort zone, like trying a vibrant wallpaper in a powder room or a dramatic light fixture in the dining area. Even a single bold decision can make the whole room feel more dynamic and personal.

Skip the Towel Bars

Towel bars might look neat in magazines, but in real life, they’re often impractical. Folding towels perfectly isn’t a priority for most people, and that’s where hooks come in. They’re easier to use and make a bathroom feel organized without much effort.

A row of hooks can give everyone their own spot for towels, keeping the space tidy and functional. Plus, hooks take up less wall space, leaving room for decor or shelving to add a little more style to the bathroom.

Don’t Ignore Lampshades

Lampshades might seem like an afterthought, but they’re a simple way to elevate a room. A textured, patterned, or custom-made shade can add color, personality, and cohesion to your decor.

For example, matching a fabric lampshade to the colors in a room’s rug or artwork creates a subtle, polished look. Swapping out generic shades for ones with a little flair is an easy upgrade that makes a big impact without overhauling the whole space.

Think Beyond White Ceilings

Ceilings are often overlooked, but they can make a big difference in how a room feels. Painting or wallpapering the ceiling adds depth and draws the eye upward, making the space feel more complete.

For a cozy vibe, try a warm metallic or a dark color in smaller rooms like dens or libraries. In bedrooms, softer hues like pale blue or blush can create a calming effect. The ceiling is an untapped opportunity to add personality without overwhelming the room.