30 Interior Design Mistakes Pros See Over and Over Again

Interior design isn’t just about creating a pretty space. It’s about making your home feel comfortable, functional, and intentional. But according to the pros, the same design mistakes keep popping up again and again. From awkward furniture placement to lighting missteps, these common errors can throw off the whole vibe of a room. The good news is that every one of them is totally fixable. We’ve rounded up 30 interior design mistakes that experts see all the time, so you can spot them and stop them before they sabotage your space.

Pushing All Furniture Against the Walls

One of the most common layout mistakes people make is pushing all their furniture against the walls, thinking it makes a room look bigger. In reality, it creates a cold, awkward space with a void in the center. Interior designers often recommend “floating” furniture to create conversation areas and improve flow. Pulling a sofa away from the wall and anchoring it with a rug can transform a room instantly. It adds depth, coziness, and a sense of intention. Grouping furniture allows for more natural conversation and better use of the space. Even in small rooms, a little space behind the sofa can add visual interest. Don’t be afraid to experiment with new layouts.

Choosing Style Over Comfort

Aesthetic is important, but it should never come at the expense of comfort. That sleek acrylic chair may look great on Instagram, but if no one wants to sit in it, what’s the point? Interior designers urge people to test furniture before buying—especially sofas and chairs. A beautiful room should also be livable. Choose materials that feel good and wear well. Opt for pieces that invite people to relax, not perch awkwardly. You can absolutely find options that are both stylish and comfortable. A welcoming home always starts with comfort.

Ignoring Scale and Proportion

Designers constantly see homes where furniture is either too large or too small for the room. A massive sectional can overwhelm a tiny living space, just as a petite coffee table can look lost in a grand room. Getting scale right is essential to balance. It helps the eye travel smoothly through the space without visual disruption. Designers recommend measuring your room and furniture pieces carefully before buying. Use painter’s tape to mock up dimensions on the floor. This quick trick can save you from a lot of regret. Think of scale as the secret sauce that ties a room together.

Using Only Overhead Lighting

Overhead lighting alone makes a room feel flat and clinical. Designers strongly advocate for layered lighting to create ambiance and depth. That means combining ceiling lights with table lamps, floor lamps, sconces, or even candles. It helps define zones in open spaces and gives you control over mood and brightness. Using multiple light sources makes the room feel cozier and more inviting. Dimmers are a designer favorite for this very reason. Don’t rely on a single overhead fixture to do all the work. Think of lighting as a design element in itself.

Hanging Art Too High

This is one of those subtle mistakes that has a big impact. Art that’s hung too high can make a space feel disjointed and out of sync. Designers recommend hanging artwork at eye level—typically around 57-60 inches from the floor to the center of the piece. This helps the art connect with the furniture and decor around it. When pieces are too high, they visually “float” and lose their relationship with the rest of the room. For gallery walls, create a cohesive layout where pieces relate to one another. Use painter’s tape or paper cutouts to map it out first. Properly placed art feels intentional and elevates the space.

Buying Entire Furniture Sets

It’s tempting to grab a full living room or bedroom set because it’s easy and matches perfectly. But that matchy-matchy look often lacks personality and soul. Designers love mixing styles, materials, and finishes for a more curated and collected look. Your home should feel like it evolved over time—not like it was ordered from a single catalog. A mix of old and new, soft and structured, light and dark creates visual interest. Choose standout pieces that reflect your taste. A bit of variety goes a long way in making a room feel authentic. Let your style tell a story.

Using Tiny Rugs in Big Spaces

Nothing shrinks a room faster than a too-small rug. Designers frequently encounter living rooms with rugs that barely extend beyond the coffee table. Ideally, at least the front legs of your furniture should sit on the rug. In dining rooms, the rug should be large enough for chairs to remain on it when pulled out. An undersized rug can make a space feel disconnected and out of proportion. If in doubt, go bigger. Rugs help anchor furniture and define zones in open layouts. They also add texture and warmth. Don’t let your rug float like an island—let it ground your space.

Prioritizing Trends Over Timelessness

Trendy pieces can be fun, but basing your entire home on what’s popular right now often leads to regret. What’s “in” today may be “out” tomorrow, leaving your space feeling dated fast. Designers suggest choosing timeless foundation pieces—like sofas and dining tables—that won’t go out of style. You can still embrace trends with accessories like pillows, throws, and art. This way, it’s easy (and inexpensive) to refresh your look. Stick with neutral, classic backdrops and layer on personality with changing accents. Your home will age more gracefully this way. Timeless doesn’t mean boring—it means lasting.

Forgetting About Function

A beautiful room that doesn’t function well misses the mark. Designers always consider how a space is used before choosing furnishings and layout. That means thinking about traffic flow, storage needs, and daily routines. Form should support function, not fight it. An awkwardly placed chair or a pretty-but-pointless side table won’t serve you in the long run. Smart design makes life easier. Every element should earn its place. Functionality is what turns a nice room into a great one.

Neglecting the Ceiling

The ceiling is often called the “fifth wall,” but it’s frequently ignored. Designers see missed opportunities in plain, white, uninspired ceilings. Painting the ceiling, adding beams, or using wallpaper can completely transform a room. It draws the eye upward and adds depth and character. In small spaces, a dark or bold ceiling can even make the room feel more intimate. Treating the ceiling with care makes a space feel more finished. Don’t be afraid to look up and get creative. The ceiling deserves some love, too.

Over-accessorizing

Too many accessories can make a space feel cluttered and chaotic. Designers often see coffee tables overflowing with knick-knacks or mantels buried under decor. The key is editing—less truly is more. Choose a few meaningful, well-placed items that enhance the space, not overwhelm it. Group objects in odd numbers and vary heights and textures for visual interest. Leave negative space to give the eye a place to rest. Rotate accessories seasonally to keep things fresh. A little breathing room goes a long way in good design.

Using Only One Paint Color

Painting every room the same neutral tone might seem safe, but it can also make your home feel flat and monotonous. Interior designers suggest adding variety through color to create personality and dimension. Even subtle shifts in tone or finish can make a big difference. Don’t be afraid to go bold in small doses—like an accent wall or a colorful powder room. Color can be used to define spaces, influence mood, and showcase your style. Just be sure to maintain some cohesion between rooms. A well-thought-out palette creates flow without being repetitive. Color is your design superpower—use it.

Neglecting Window Treatments

Bare windows can make a room feel cold and unfinished. Designers often find that adding curtains, blinds, or shades can instantly elevate a space. Window treatments soften hard edges, provide privacy, and help control light. They also add texture and can introduce color or pattern. Hanging curtains high and wide creates the illusion of larger windows. Custom or tailored options offer a polished, designer look. Even simple treatments make a huge difference. Don’t skip this essential layer of design.

Skipping the Entryway

The entryway sets the tone for the entire home, yet it’s often overlooked. Designers stress the importance of creating a welcoming and functional foyer. Even a small space can be styled with intention—a mirror, a console table, and a tray for keys can do wonders. Think about storage, lighting, and flow. Add a rug for warmth and artwork to make it personal. Your entryway should say, “Welcome,” not “I forgot about this part.” It’s the first impression guests get—make it count. Even tiny spaces deserve big style.

Sticking With Builder-Grade Fixtures

Those basic light fixtures and hardware that come with many homes are usually… just okay. Designers encourage swapping out these elements for more distinctive options. Think statement pendant lights, matte black faucets, or brass cabinet pulls. These small upgrades have a big visual impact. They help infuse your style into the space and make it feel more custom. Lighting, especially, is often called the jewelry of the home. You don’t need a huge budget to make meaningful changes. A few thoughtful swaps can dramatically elevate the look.

Using Too Many Small Decor Pieces

Tiny trinkets scattered around the room can make everything feel cluttered and busy. Designers recommend opting for fewer, larger decor items instead. A bold vase, a sculptural lamp, or a large art piece has more impact than several small ones. Larger-scale items help anchor the space and create a sense of order. It also makes dusting and cleaning easier—bonus! If you love your small pieces, group them intentionally on trays or shelves. Avoid the “sprinkled everywhere” look. Bigger really is better in this case.

Neglecting Personal Touches

A home should reflect the people who live in it, yet designers often see spaces that feel like impersonal showrooms. Incorporating meaningful items—like family photos, travel finds, or heirlooms—adds warmth and soul. These touches tell your story and make the space truly yours. Don’t be afraid to mix in the imperfect and sentimental. Style them thoughtfully so they blend seamlessly with the decor. Personal items give your home a unique voice. Designers love homes that feel lived-in and loved—not sterile. Celebrate what makes your space yours.

Forgetting About Texture

A room full of smooth, shiny surfaces can feel cold and one-dimensional. Designers emphasize the importance of mixing textures to add depth and interest. Think woven rugs, velvet pillows, linen drapes, and wooden furniture. The contrast between rough and soft, matte and glossy, creates a sensory experience. It’s especially important in neutral spaces where color variation is minimal. Layering textures makes a room feel rich and inviting. Don’t overlook this tactile layer of design. Texture is what brings a room to life.

Hanging Curtains Incorrectly

Too often, curtains are hung too low or too narrowly, making windows look smaller than they are. Designers suggest mounting curtain rods closer to the ceiling and extending them beyond the window frame. This trick elongates the walls and creates the illusion of larger, grander windows. Let curtains just kiss the floor for an elegant look. Avoid the “high water pants” effect where they hover awkwardly above the ground. The right curtains can transform a room. Treat your windows like the focal points they are. It’s a simple fix with a major payoff.

Over-Theming a Room

Themed rooms—nautical bathrooms, farmhouse everything, or Parisian bedrooms—can quickly go from charming to cheesy. Designers recommend using themes as inspiration, not a strict rulebook. Instead of filling a room with literal decor, focus on colors, textures, and a few subtle nods. Let the influence guide the aesthetic, not dominate it. A coastal-inspired room, for example, might use breezy linens, driftwood, and sea tones—not anchors and seashells everywhere. Themes work best when they’re soft and abstract. A little goes a long way. Subtlety is key to staying chic.

Ignoring the Power of Plants

A home without plants can feel sterile and lifeless. Designers frequently suggest adding greenery to bring freshness and vibrancy into a space. Even a single potted plant can change the mood of a room. Plants add color, texture, and even help purify the air. You don’t need a green thumb—many low-maintenance options like snake plants or pothos are very forgiving. Use a mix of sizes and styles for variety—floor plants, hanging plants, and tabletop ones all play a role. Just like art or lighting, greenery is an essential layer of design. Nature belongs in every space.

Filling Every Wall

Not every wall needs something on it. Designers often see homes where every inch is covered in art, shelving, or decor. But empty space can be just as impactful as a filled one. Negative space gives the eye a chance to rest and can make the important pieces stand out more. Be intentional about what goes where. Allow some walls to remain blank to avoid visual clutter. Think of it like punctuation in a sentence—it helps everything read more clearly. Let your design breathe.

Overdoing the Open Shelving

Open shelves look great in magazines, but they require careful styling and constant upkeep. Designers caution against using too many unless you’re prepared to keep them tidy. A cluttered shelf can quickly ruin the look of a well-designed kitchen or living room. Mix closed storage with open display for balance. Use a limited color palette and repeat shapes or materials for a cohesive look. Don’t overload them—leave some breathing room. Open shelving should highlight your favorite pieces, not become a dumping ground. Curate, don’t clutter.

Using Cheap-Looking Imitations

Faux materials that look obviously fake can cheapen the entire space. Think fake wood with plastic shine or metallic finishes that scratch easily. Designers suggest investing in quality where it counts—especially in frequently used items like floors or countertops. If your budget’s tight, prioritize authenticity over mimicry. Even simple, well-made materials look better than poor imitations. Real wood, stone, and ceramic tend to age better and feel more substantial. It’s better to have fewer high-quality pieces than many low-quality ones. Go for honest materials whenever you can.

Forgetting About Acoustics

Designers know that how a room sounds is just as important as how it looks. Hard surfaces like tile, glass, and metal can cause echoes and noise. Soft materials—a—help absorb sound and create a more pleasant atmosphere. In open-concept spaces, acoustics become even more critical. Add layers to soften sound: think textiles, bookshelves, and fabric wall hangings. If you notice an echo, it’s time to cozy up the space. A quieter room feels calmer and more intimate. Sound matters more than you think.

Overloading on One Style

Going all-in on one style—like ultra-modern, boho, or industrial—can make a home feel one-note. Designers recommend mixing styles to create depth and personality. Blending modern and vintage or rustic and refined keeps things interesting. It shows layers of taste and creates contrast that feels more natural. Stick to a cohesive color palette to tie everything together. Don’t be afraid to break the rules—a little tension in design can be exciting. Homes should feel collected, not staged. Style mashups are where the magic happens.

Not Testing Paint Colors First

Paint looks different in every space depending on light, surroundings, and time of day. Designers are always surprised by how many people skip testing and go straight to painting the whole room. Always test swatches in multiple spots and observe them in morning, afternoon, and evening light. Use large samples or peel-and-stick swatches for better accuracy. What looks great in the store may look totally different on your walls. Taking the time to test can prevent expensive mistakes. Don’t trust the tiny chip alone. Live with the color before you commit.

Placing TVs as the Focal Point

While TVs are often a part of daily life, they don’t need to dominate the entire room. Designers recommend creating a more balanced layout where the TV isn’t the star. Position seating to encourage conversation, not just binge-watching. You can incorporate a TV into a gallery wall or hide it behind cabinet doors. Consider stylish media consoles or even a frame TV that displays art when not in use. The living room should be about more than just screen time. Let connection, comfort, and style take center stage.

Skimping on Storage

A beautifully styled room means nothing if there’s nowhere to hide everyday messes. Designers always factor in smart storage—from baskets to built-ins to ottomans with hidden compartments. Every home needs a place for the not-so-pretty stuff. Good storage allows you to keep your space functional and visually clean. It also reduces stress—clutter has a way of weighing on the mind. Think vertically with tall shelves or multipurpose furniture. Invest in solutions that make tidying up easier. Hidden storage is a designer’s secret weapon.

Choosing Aesthetics Over Practical Layouts

It’s easy to get caught up in making a space look good on paper or Instagram. But designers constantly see rooms that are awkward to navigate or difficult to use. A beautiful space that doesn’t function is a missed opportunity. Think about how you actually move and live in the room. Are outlets where you need them? Is there enough space to walk? Can doors and drawers open fully? Prioritize layouts that support real-life usage. The best design blends form and function seamlessly.