Furniture Faux Pas: Common Decorating Mistakes (And How to Fix Them!

When it comes to decorating, even the most well-intentioned furniture lovers make mistakes. Some design choices can disrupt the flow of a room or make it feel less inviting than intended. The good news is that these furniture faux pas are easy to avoid—and even easier to fix.

One of the most common mistakes is pushing all furniture against the walls. While this might seem like the best way to open up space, it often results in a room feeling disconnected. Instead, try floating your furniture away from the walls. Creating small, cozy clusters for conversation or relaxation makes the room feel more inviting and helps define different areas in open-plan layouts.

Another issue homeowners often face is choosing furniture that’s too big or too small for the space. For example, a massive sectional sofa in a tiny living room can make the space feel cramped, while a too-small coffee table in a large living room will leave the space feeling unbalanced. According to interior design experts, scale and proportion are crucial to making a room feel harmonious. Use a floor plan tool or even simple measurements before purchasing large pieces to ensure they fit well within your room’s layout.

Lighting is another common culprit. A single overhead light might be practical, but it often casts harsh shadows and creates a flat, unwelcoming atmosphere. Instead, use a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a warm, layered effect. Table lamps, floor lamps, and even decorative pendant lights can add visual interest and make your home feel cozier and more sophisticated.

Lastly, there’s the question of matching everything too perfectly. While it might be tempting to buy a full matching furniture set, doing so can make your home feel more like a showroom than a lived-in space. Instead, try mixing and matching different styles, colors, and textures to add character and personality to your rooms. As long as you stick to a cohesive theme or color palette, the result will feel curated and unique.