3 Interior Design Mistakes You Should Never Make

Interior Design Mistakes You Should Never Make

Creating a beautiful and functional living space is the goal of every homeowner, but it’s often all too easy to fall into common pitfalls that can detract from the overall look and feel of your home.

To help you navigate the world of interior design, Daniel Ufland, co-founder of online interior styling platform Flitch, identifies three common interior design mistakes and provides practical tips for avoiding or rectifying them.

1. Ignoring Scale and Proportion

One of the most common mistakes in interior design is not considering the scale and proportion of furniture and decor items in a room. Oversized furniture in a small space can make the room feel cramped, while undersized pieces can look lost in a large room.

Daniel’s Tip: Before purchasing furniture, measure your space carefully and consider the scale of each piece in relation to the room’s dimensions. Opt for furniture that fits comfortably within the space without overwhelming it. Additionally, consider the height of ceilings and the size of windows when selecting furniture to ensure proper balance and proportion.

2. Neglecting Functionality

Another mistake homeowners often make is prioritizing aesthetics over functionality. While it’s important for a space to look visually appealing, it should also serve the needs of those who live in it. Neglecting functionality can result in a space that looks great but doesn’t work well for everyday living.

Daniel’s Tip: 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. Choose furniture and decor that not only look good but also serve a practical purpose.

For example, opt for multipurpose furniture pieces that offer storage solutions or invest in durable materials that can withstand everyday wear and tear.

3. Overlooking the Importance of Lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in interior design, yet it’s a feature that is often overlooked or underestimated. Insufficient lighting can make a room feel dark and gloomy, while harsh lighting can create glare and discomfort.

Daniel’s Tip: Incorporate a variety of lighting sources into your space to create ambiance and functionality. This includes overhead lighting, task lighting, and accent lighting. Consider the natural light levels in the room and supplement with artificial lighting as needed. Dimmer switches are also a great addition as they allow you to adjust the lighting levels to suit different activities and moods.

Importance of Scale, Proportion, and Functionality

Daniel states, ‘When designing a living space, it’s essential to consider factors such as scale, proportion, and functionality. These elements not only contribute to the overall aesthetics of the space but also impact its comfort and usability.’ By paying attention to these details, homeowners can create rooms that are both visually stunning and practical for everyday living.

Interior design is about more than just making a space look pretty. It’s about creating environments that enhance our lives and reflect our personalities. Daniel says, ‘By avoiding common design mistakes and prioritizing factors like scale, proportion, and functionality, homeowners can create spaces that are both beautiful and functional.