Interior design is extremely personal—there is no one right answer to how a home should look. However, there are mistakes that can throw off the feel of a space no matter your style.
up against the wall
It seems practical to line furniture around the perimeter of a room, especially the couch. However, this placement can leave a room seeming unbalanced and uninviting. Floating pieces away from the wall can make the room feel more spacious and create better flow for conversation—people aren’t stranded on opposite walls. If a room is too small to arrange furniture away from the walls, create balance by floating smaller pieces. For example if the couch has to go against the wall, try placing accent chairs or tables away from it.
matchy match
Matching furniture sets may seem like an easy and convenient choice to create a cohesive space, but they actually can make a room feel flat. Different wood tones, finishes and silhouettes add contrast and visual interest. If everything is the same, a room can feel boring, impersonal and mass produced. Instead, make your interior feel collected and curated by juxtaposing pieces, colors and patterns. For a unique look, prioritize the mix over the match.
tip the scales
Make sure the pieces you are combining work together when it comes to scale. Pairing a giant sectional sofa with tiny end tables is going to look odd. The same goes for placing undersized artwork on a large blank wall, or using a too-small rug that leaves furniture floating off-edge. It can leave a room feeling fragmented and disjointed. You want the visual proportion of a room to feel balanced. Start with the largest piece occupying a room and build around it. Make sure things don’t feel too cramped or sparse.
focus on the overhead
Overhead lighting is an easy way to light a large area. If you solely rely on it, however, it can leave your home looking harsh and sterile. Single-source lighting can leave the corners and edges of a space in shadow. On the other hand if it’s too bright, it can be unflattering for both your home and you. A general rule of thumb is to layer two to four additional light sources. Mix table lamps, floor lamps and sconces to create a more warm and welcoming environment.
