Design Mistakes That Are Keeping Your Home from Looking Its Best

Have you ever walked into a home that feels effortlessly put together—like every detail was chosen with intention? If your space doesn’t quite have that finished look, you’re not alone! Many homeowners make small design mistakes that leave their homes feeling incomplete. The good news? A few thoughtful changes can transform your space from unfinished to polished and inviting.

Here are the most common mistakes—and how to fix them!

1. Not Starting with a Design Plan

   One of the biggest mistakes is designing room by room without an overall vision. This can lead to mismatched styles, colours, and furniture that don’t flow well together.

   Not having a design plan can also lead to purchasing furniture pieces of the wrong size, creating a space that looks disjointed and out of proportion.

• Fix it: Start with a design plan. Even if you decorate in phases, a clear vision ensures a harmonious final result.

  2. Choosing Paint Colours First

  It’s tempting to pick a paint colour first, but this can limit your options when selecting furniture, rugs, and decor. The wrong shade can make the entire space feel off.

• Fix it: Choose all key elements first - like furniture, rugs, and textiles—then choose a paint color that complements everything else.

  3. Neglecting Window Treatments

  Bare windows can make a room feel cold and unfinished. The right window coverings add warmth, dimension, and softness to your space.

• Fix it: Layer your windows with curtains, roman shades, or blinds to complete the look. For a high-end feel, hang curtains higher and wider than your window frame.

  4. Poorly Placed or Insufficient Lighting

  Lighting is one of the most overlooked elements in design. A single ceiling light isn’t enough to create ambiance and functionality. Upgrading your lighting can transform any space, enhancing aesthetics, improving efficiency, or creating a more welcoming atmosphere.

• Fix it: Layer lighting with a mix of overhead, task, and accent lights (like table lamps, wall sconces, and floor lamps) for a well-lit, inviting space.

  5. Under-Decorating (or Over-Decorating)

  Too few decor pieces can make a room feel cold, while too many can create clutter instead of cohesion.

  Don’t ignore the power of accessories. Rugs, throw pillows, and decorative objects may seem minor, but they’re essential for tying a space together.

• Fix it: Add intentional decor—think artwork, books, plants, and textiles—to personalize the space while maintaining balance and invest in high-quality finishing touches to elevate your design and make your home feel complete.

  6. Buying Furniture Without a Plan

  Impulse furniture purchases often result in pieces that don’t fit the space, whether in size, style, or function. Many homeowners start buying furniture right away, thinking they’re getting ahead. But when pieces don’t fit the space or work together, they create a mismatched, unfinished look.

• Fix it: Hold off on purchases until you have a solid design plan. Your designer can help you choose items that work together for a seamless result.

Ready for a Finished, Polished Home?

Avoid these common design pitfalls, and you’ll create a home that feels custom, cohesive, and beautifully put together. But if you need expert guidance, I’d love to help!