The Most Common Decorating Mistakes: How to Avoid a Design Disaster

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While every person’s style and taste are unique, there are a few mistakes that can ruin any well-intended design. Let’s face it, styling a room has its challenges. The biggest one for me through the years hasn’t been lack of ideas. It’s usually the lack (or perceived lack) of funds! Decorating isn’t cheap, but it also doesn’t have to break the bank.

 

If you’re going into your room design with an “I have to spend as little as possible” mindset, therein lies the first most common mistake. It’s the lack of a plan. A plan involves knowing not only what you want but also how much you have or want to spend on what you want. Sometimes, it could be best to postpone implementing what you want until you have the resources to get what you truly envisioned. Too many home dwellers find themselves scrimping on knickknacks here and there trying to make them ‘work’ only to end up with a cheaply done and not-so-beautiful look. So, an easy solution to avoid a potential design disaster is to devise a step-by-step plan customized to your space, timing and budget.

 

Another common design mistake is when people try to create a cohesive look by combining too many colors and styles. Too much of anything, be it color, textures or furniture, can create a confused and sometimes chaotic look. At the other end of the spectrum, playing it too safe is another pitfall that is easy to fall into. Getting the balance just right is the key to creating a relaxed space. The operative word is “balance”. Apply the concept of balance by spreading a common color throughout the space, for example, instead of in one concentrated area.

 

Designing a room scheme can be really easy if you follow some simple guidelines. For example, I generally search for a focal point to build on. It could be a beautiful pillow, a piece of fabric or artwork that becomes my starting point. The focal point will act as the main focus of the room and all other ingredients should complement it. Finally, I add some interesting details, such as blown glass objects, to add an unexpected touch.

 

Contrary to popular opinion, you don’t need a lot of money to create your own perfect haven. Being resourceful and imaginative is often much more rewarding. You can unearth some real treasures in local stores and second-hand shops. Keeping these hints and tips in mind can go a long way in avoiding a design disaster. As long as the basic function and feel of the room suits your needs, you can’t go wrong!

 

Tarsha Davis

Home Staging Expert & Owner of