From outdated trends to major design blunders, these common décor mistakes can ruin a space. Swipe through to see what’s wrong – and how to fix it.
The Worst Design Icks
Nothing ruins a space faster than an interior design “ick.” From cringe trends to décor disasters, these common offenders make homes look outdated, awkward, or just plain off.
But don’t worry – I’ve got the fixes. Swipe through for clever ways to turn your space from “Why did I do this?” to “Why didn’t I do this sooner?”
Matching Everything
Think your room needs a sofa, rug, curtains, and pillows in the exact same color? Think again. Over-matching makes a space feel lifeless and straight out of a furniture catalog.
Instead, mix textures and complementary shades for a layered, designer look. Try pairing neutrals with bold accents, or mix metals and woods for contrast that feels curated, not copied.
Too Many Tiny Decor Pieces
A million little trinkets don’t make your home look “styled” – they make it look cluttered. Instead of drowning your space in tiny figurines and knick-knacks, swap them for larger statement pieces.
A sculptural vase or an oversized artwork commands attention without overwhelming the space. Want to keep your small décor? Group similar items in threes for a more intentional look.
Floating Rugs
A rug that’s too small is like a bad haircut – it throws everything off. If your furniture isn’t at least partially sitting on your rug, it’s too tiny. The fix? Go bigger.
A properly sized rug anchors the room, creating a cohesive and cozy feel. Still, working with a small rug? Layer it over a larger neutral one for an effortlessly cool vibe.
Overstuffed Sofas
Is your couch swallowing you whole?
Super puffy, oversized sofas seem comfy, but they often look bloated and take over the entire room. The trick? Balance is key. If you love a plush couch, keep the rest of your furniture sleek to avoid a bulky look.
Or, go for a deep-seated but structured sofa – cozy but chic, without the overwhelming fluff.
Dull, Builder-Grade Walls
Bare, beige, or stark white walls scream “default setting” instead of personal style. The fix? Add texture with peel-and-stick wall panels, go bold with a deep moody hue, or try a two-tone effect with paint.
Even a simple gallery wall can bring life to dull spaces. Your walls take up the most space – make them count.
Outdated Cabinet Handles
You might not notice them at first, but old-school brass or plastic knobs are low-key ruining your kitchen’s vibe. Swapping them for modern matte black, sleek brushed nickel, or trendy mixed-metal pulls can transform cabinets instantly.
Want a budget fix? Try spray-painting existing handles for a chic refresh. Small detail, big impact.
Faux Plants Overload
A few faux plants? Totally fine. Turning your home into a plastic jungle? Not so much. Too many fake plants can make a space feel lifeless.
If real plants aren’t your thing, mix in dried florals or preserved moss for a natural touch without the upkeep. Even a single statement vase with fresh eucalyptus can add life to your space.
Tacky Word Signs
We get it – “Live, Laugh, Love” is a classic (sort of), but overly cliché word art can make your home feel like a gift shop.
Instead of mass-produced phrases, opt for unique wall decor like vintage signage, a custom neon light, or even framed handwritten notes.
Your walls should tell your story, not one from a home goods aisle.
Badly Placed TVs
Mounting your TV too high or placing it awkwardly can turn movie night into a neck workout. The ideal height? The center of the screen should align with your eye level when seated.
If your TV sticks out like a sore thumb, balance it with an art frame, a sleek media console, or even a Samsung Frame TV that doubles as artwork.
Furniture Pushed Against Walls
Shoving all your furniture against the walls makes a room feel cold and disconnected. Instead, try floating your sofa or chairs closer together to create a cozy, conversational setup.
Even in small spaces, pulling furniture just a few inches forward can add depth. Use a console table or a stylish bench behind a sofa to fill any awkward gaps.
Cluttered Open Shelving
Open shelves can be chic, but overcrowding them with random items makes your space look chaotic. The fix? Follow the “rule of thirds” – combine books, decorative objects, and negative space for balance.
Try stacking books horizontally, mixing in sculptural pieces, and keeping a cohesive color palette. A little breathing room goes a long way.
Mismatched Light Temperatures
Warm bulbs in one room, cool bulbs in another – lighting chaos. Mismatched light temperatures create an unbalanced, disjointed feel.
Stick to one temperature throughout your home: warm (2700K-3000K) for cozy vibes, or neutral (3500K-4000K) for a crisp, modern feel. Swapping bulbs is the cheapest way to make your home look instantly more put together.
Ignoring Ceilings
Your ceiling is your room’s fifth wall, but so many people leave it blank and boring. Want a wow factor? Try a bold paint color, subtle wallpaper, or even wooden beams for warmth.
For a rental-friendly fix, peel-and-stick ceiling tiles or a statement light fixture can completely change the vibe. Look up – your ceiling deserves some love, too.
Oversized or Tiny Artwork
A giant blank wall with a tiny picture? Awkward. A massive painting squished into a tiny corner? Also awkward. The right proportion is key.
For a balanced look, art should take up two-thirds of the wall space it hangs on. Still struggling? Create a gallery wall or lean large frames on a console for an effortless, curated feel.
Ignoring Entryways
Your entryway is the first thing guests see, yet so many leave it bare and lifeless. Add a stylish console table, a statement mirror, or even an oversized plant to create an inviting first impression.
No room? A simple wall hook setup with a floating shelf for keys and decor can do wonders. Start strong – your home deserves it.
For more stylish ways to upgrade your entryway, Chic Console Tables for Narrow Hallways has the perfect picks to make even the smallest spaces stand out.
Excessive Theme Decorating
Loving a theme is great, but going overboard can make your home feel gimmicky. A full-on boho room with macramé on every wall, endless rattan pieces, and layers of fringe? It’s too much.
Instead, keep it balanced – a woven chair, a statement rug, or a few macramé accents can bring the boho vibe without overwhelming the space.
It’s easy to get carried away, but a little restraint makes all the difference. And if you’re wondering what other decor missteps to avoid, 15 Decor Mistakes to Stop Making Today has plenty of tips.
Read Next:
15 Design Mistakes You Should Avoid in 2025
Mistakes That Make Your Home Look Cheap
Mistakes in Landscaping That Ruin Curb Appeal
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