Avoiding Common Decorating Mistakes
- Julie Schuster
- Apr 4
- 3 min read
When decorating a space, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the overall look
and functionality of the room. Even trained designers have made one or more of these in early projects! In hindsight, it may all seem like common sense. So let's get ahead of the curve!Here’s how to avoid the most common decorating mistakes:
Correctly Sized Area Rugs
Small rugs are meant for small spaces, not to be a postage stamp in the middle of a large space. The rug should fit under the most important furniture items. At a minimum the rug should be up to those items. This is especially good in open plans as it also visually delineates different use areas.
Dramatically Tall Drapes
When you are installing draperies or even shades that don’t fit inside the window frame, install them up to the ceiling. This enhances room height visually and adds drama and personality to the space. If at all possible aim for 96” height for drapes for standard 8’ ceilings, or have them custom fabricated for taller ceilings.
Use What you Have!
Incorporate old items that you still love into your spaces! It might seem tempting to get rid of old items and replace them with something new. But it’s often of lesser quality and lesser character compared to the loved pieces in your current home.
Whenever the items seem to have quality workmanship, I usually recommend reupholstering pieces or refinishing.
Invest in Seating
Where you sit matters. Larger items like a sofa should be an investment, so get the best you can afford. And sit on it before you buy! Just because it looks amazing does not mean that it is comfortable. Make certain you and your guests will love sitting there.
Use Color Freely and Often
In Feng Shui, we LOVE incorporating colors that support and nurture those that live there. Show off your personality with color, and this will ensure a cozy space. Feeling stuck on what to pick color-wise, check out my past blogs all about color choices in decorating!
Layer your Lighting
Layered lighting, layered lighting, layered lighting. There should always be different types of lighting for different needs. Overhead lighting to fully illuminate the room, task lamps for reading, accent lighting under cabinets, ceiling level accent lighting, painting lights, and more!
Smart lighting brings warmth, allows for drama and beautifully highlights architecture. Whenever possible, I highly recommend dimmable lights for either individual fixtures or a full system throughout the room. Note that not all LEDs are dimmable, so check the fine print!
Large Art for Large Walls
Few things are sadder than a large wall with a small piece of art. The art in your home is supposed to make a statement! It’s important to hang art that is proportionate to wall size to make said statement. If you’re feeling up to the task, gallery walls are a great way to showcase multiple smaller pieces on a large wall.
Go Hunting for Unique Furniture
Don’t go cookie cutter. Shop different brands for your space and purchase items that compliment each other in style, but don’t seem to be from the same collection. That sort of look is only for furniture catalogs. Mix it up. Incorporate personal items and bold finds and you’ll create a space you love.
And as always, have fun and don’t take decorating YOUR home too seriously! I hope these tips help inspire confidence to create a comfortable space for you and your guests.
CONSULTATION PACKAGES
Julie and her team have a passion for creating beautiful, engaging and functional spaces, focusing on both the physical as well as the emotional well being of your environment. Click on the links below for package details:
A design collaboration done between client and designer done entirely online. Purchase the package below, submit photos of the space and existing furnishings you like to see incorporated in the design and a sketch of the space with measurements.
Need some assistance in selecting paint finishes for your home? A design collaboration done between client and designer done entirely online. Purchase the package below, submit photos of the space and and fabrics.
Whether it is directing the flow of chi through the arrangement of furnishings, design or colors; Julie and her team can help you to create the spaces that support your vision of a balanced life, rich in the areas that matter to you.
There is no second chance to make a good first impression. When the time comes to sell or rent your home, ease the transition and maximize return by helping your home look its very best.
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