No matter the size or style of our home, we all want to create a beautiful and functional interior. But some simple design and style mistakes could prevent your space from reaching its full potential. Here are three common interior design mistakes and how to fix them.
Mistake 1: Ignoring scale and proportion
A common mistake in interior design is not considering the scale and proportion of the furniture. But by paying attention to these details, you can create visually striking spaces that are also practical for daily living.
For example, oversized furniture in a small space can make the room appear cramped, while smaller pieces can appear lost in a large room. Be honest with yourself about what you really need in terms of furniture, then you can prioritize pieces that fit perfectly. Additionally, consider ceiling heights and window sizes when choosing furniture to ensure proper balance and proportion.
Daniel Ufland, co-founder of online interior design platform Flitch, says: “When designing a living space, it is essential to consider factors such as scale, proportion and functionality. These elements not only contribute to the overall aesthetic of the space but also impact its comfort and usability.”
Lizetta Comfortable Accent Chair
Now 45% discount
Pebble Side Table
Aria Console Dressing Table
Now 25% discount
Mistake 2: Neglecting functionality
Another common mistake is prioritizing aesthetics over functionality. While it is important for a space to look visually attractive, it must meet our needs and lifestyle. Interior design is more than just making a space look pretty, it’s about creating environments that improve our lives.
‘When designing a room, consider how it will be used on a daily basis. Take into account factors such as traffic flow, storage needs and the activities that will take place in the space,” says Daniel.
Work from home? Consider an office or desk space. Do you love cooking elaborate meals? Design countertops with plenty of room to experiment. And, if you have a busy home (especially one with small children or pets), then choosing durable furniture is a must.
If you’re short on space, it’s worth choosing multifunctional items, such as furniture that doubles as hidden storage. That way, you get the most bang for your buck. and Make the most of your space, without limiting your style!
Mistake 3: Overlooking the importance of lighting
Repeat after us: never underestimate the importance of lighting. It’s an often underestimated feature, but insufficient lighting can make a room appear dark and dreary, while bright lighting can cause glare and discomfort.
To use lighting, think about three things: what your daily routine is like, what you want to highlight in your home, and the feeling you want to create. If you love to curl up and read, plenty of table and floor lamps (especially those that can tilt) are a must. If you have paintings that are not displayed to their best effect, a carefully placed light will illuminate the area and attract attention. And, if you want to create a cozy atmosphere, create a layered lighting scheme, rather than relying solely on the ceiling light.
‘Incorporate a variety of lighting sources into your space to create ambiance and functionality,” suggests Daniel. ‘This includes overhead lighting, task lighting and accent lighting. Consider the natural light levels in the room and supplement with artificial lighting as necessary. Dimmers are also a great addition, allowing lighting levels to be adjusted to suit different activities and moods.’
Lola table lamp
Candle Warmer Lamp
Keko Rechargeable Touch Dimmable Table Lamp
Follow House Beautiful on Tik Tok and instagram.
Marketplace Content Editor, House Beautiful & Country Living
Rosie Stagg is the Marketplace Content Editor for Y and covers everything from self-care tips to craft trends to interior style guides. With many years working in e-commerce and specializing in marketplaces, Rosie also manages content on . Rosie studied at the University of Leeds, where she completed a degree in English and Art History.
