Are you tired of redecorating each time a new style hits? What if I told that some of the worst decorating mistakes are made by chasing trends instead of focusing on timeless designs? After 30 years of designing 15 different homes, there are a few things I’ve learned the hard way. I’m sharing them with you so that you don’t make these same mistakes.
Mistake 1: Chasing trendy wall colors without a plan
It may seem like a quick way to brighten up a room, but if you don’t have a plan, it could backfire. Paint can definitely change the mood of a room, but it won’t affect how functional or comfortable it feels. I painted a hallway dark green out of whim thinking it would add character. It ended up feeling oppressive. What is the lesson? A well-thought out color scheme will last. Trends may come and go but a well thought-out color scheme will last. If you are going to paint a room, don’t just focus on the walls. Have a vision of the entire space.
Mistake 2: Buying an Untimeless Sofa
Why settle for a sofa that will not last? This was a lesson I learned with my first couch purchase. I bought a trendy couch without considering its long-term appeal and ended replacing it sooner than anticipated. It’s important to choose a sofa that has a history. The timeless nature of classic silhouettes from the 1980s and 2000s is why they are so popular today. A quality sofa with a proven style might cost more up front, but you’ll save money and time in the end.
Mistake 3: Wasting money by “Saving money”
Sometimes, being too budget-conscious leads to regrets in decor. Rugs are a good example. It may seem smart to choose a smaller rug that is cheaper, but this can make the room feel empty. Idealy, your rug in the family room should support the front feet of all your seating. A rug that is well-scaled not only makes the room feel cozier, but it also visually expands space. Spending more money on the right size rug will save you from having to buy unnecessary items later.
Why do we keep making the same mistakes? It’s not about following the latest trends or pinching pennies at the wrong places. It’s all about creating a space which feels authentic, comfortable and lasting. Avoiding these common pitfalls will help you create a home that will last the test of time, without the need for constant renovations.
A well-designed home isn’t only trendy; it’s also timeless.
