Decorating your home is often seen as a fun, stress-free activity. After all, how hard can it be to choose a few beautiful pieces of furniture and throw in some trendy accents? But in reality, there are a lot of hidden pitfalls that can make even the most well-intentioned interior design feel off. Whether it’s buying a piece that doesn’t fit the overall style or going overboard with bold colors, it’s easy to fall into traps that leave you regretting your decisions.
Nor is it a question of good taste or budget, sometimes one can fall into mistakes simply because one does not know how it works. And it’s good to know them beforehand so that you don’t put all your eggs in one Poltrona Frau statement piece only to find that it doesn’t match your interior! So before you get too carried away, let’s talk about some of the most common mistakes people make when decorating and how to prevent them.
1. Buying Everything at Once (And Regretting It Later)
Look, I get it. You’re about to move into a new place, and you’re excited to get it all set up. The idea of filling your space with fresh, shiny new furniture is tempting. But here’s the thing: buying everything in one go is a disaster waiting to happen. You’re likely to rush into buying things that don’t even match, that you’ll hate six months later, or worse, spending all your money all at once. You can’t just binge-shop for furniture like it’s Black Friday: trust me, you’ll regret it. Taking your time now is going to pay off in the long run: you’ll end up with a home that’s thoughtfully curated, not just a random collection of “what’s on sale.”
What to do instead:
- Start early: Don’t wait until you’ve signed the lease. You can start buying things before you even move in, and get a jump on those small, essential pieces. Think lamps, throw pillows, kitchen tools, and artwork: these little guys add personality without commitment.
- Buy neutral, adaptable pieces first: Look for accessories and furniture that can work with any style. When you’re ready to make bigger furniture decisions, these items will tie everything together and keep your space from looking like a hodgepodge.
- Go slow and steady: It’s not a race! Gradually furnish your home over time, so you don’t blow your budget or rush into pieces that just don’t feel “you.” Plus, shopping little by little means you’ll be less likely to make impulse buys you’ll later regret.
- Live in the space first: Take a few weeks (or even months) to get a feel for the room. This way, you’ll know exactly what you need and how to make it all come together. Don’t rush!
2. Thinking “Less is More”
Many people fall into the trap of thinking “less is more” when it comes to interior design. Minimalism certainly has its charm, but the reality is that too much of it can make a space feel cold and lifeless. A single luxury piece like a De Sede Sofa might be all you need to make a statement but don’t be afraid to mix in some colors, patterns, or textures. A little personality goes a long way in transforming a sterile room into a lively, welcoming space.
What to do instead:
- Add personality with accents: A statement Paola Lenti rug, an eclectic mix of B&B Italia cushions, or a bold Henge lamp can make your home feel like yours.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment: Yes, the minimalist look is great, but try mixing it up with a few fun pieces. Think about the warmth and character that a bit more color can add
3. Putting the Sofa Against the Wall
To be honest, we’re so used to seeing it that way that we’ve never even thought about changing it. What if I told you that by doing so, you’re actually lowering the level of the room? Sure, it seems like a good idea to push the sofa against the wall, but in reality, this layout can feel disconnected and stifling. It might seem like it opens up space, but it can actually limit flow and the natural sense of comfort that a well-placed sofa can create.
How to fix it:
- Try floating the sofa in the center of the room. This encourages conversation and makes the space feel more inviting. Plus, it gives you a better opportunity to play around with other furniture and accent pieces. Don’t forget to leave some space behind your sofa. A few feet of breathing room can make the space feel much more open, without feeling too cramped or cold.
4. Thinking Grey is Always the Answer
Ah, gray. The so-called “modern” color that’s as trendy as avocado toast, right? Sure, it’s versatile, sleek, and subtle… but here’s the catch: it’s b-o-r-i-n-g. Too much of it and your room can end up feeling more like a corporate office than a cozy living space. Let’s be honest, nobody wants to live inside a dull, sad grey box. And it’s not even as elegant and refined as you think. So go ahead, give grey a break, and let some color take center stage. You’ll thank yourself later.
What to choose instead:
- Spice it up with richer tones: Get adventurous! Bold blues, deep forest greens, or even warm, earthy browns can breathe life into a room without losing that high-end, polished feel.
- Add pops of personality: Bright cushions, an edgy Bocci chandelier, or a statement piece of art can all bring that “wow” factor and make your space feel vibrant and dynamic without turning it into a kaleidoscope of color.
5. Chasing the Last 5 Years Trends
Let’s be real: trends move faster than your Instagram feed. What’s intoday is practically out tomorrow. If you constantly chase the latest fads, your home will start to look like a pop-up museum, not a place where you actually live. No one wants to redecorate every two years just to keep up with the hottest trend! So, skip the trend-chasing and go for classic, charming high-quality pieces that will still make you smile 10 years from now.
What to do instead:
- Invest in evergreen pieces: Think of a set of Ligne Roset Finn Dining Chairs or a Zanotta Derby 875 Armchair. They might feel like a splurge now, but trust me, they’ll keep your space feeling fresh long after the latest trend fades.
- Prioritize personalization over trends: Your home should tell your story, not look like the background of an Influencer story. Pick pieces that make you feel at home, not like you’re on a set for a viral TikTok.
Furnishing your home should be an enjoyable experience, not a stressful one. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can create a space that is luxurious, functional, and uniquely yours. Especially if you’re into high-quality pieces of furniture, it’s crucial to have clear rules, so that when you buy the first Poltrona Frau Archibald you can be sure it’s going to be your forever favorite. If you want to furnish with high-end designer pieces and don’t know where to look for them, our readers often suggest Tomassini.com as the place to go. From an extensive catalog to global delivery, they make furnishing your dream home effortless.
