5 Decorating No-Nos: Are You Guilty?

Sep 2

Let’s be honest, not every decorating trend should make its way into your living room. Some of them truly give us 'the ick'—like shag carpeting, popcorn ceilings, and those ubiquitous 'Live Laugh Love' signs.

Today’s trends are no exception, and some are definitely wearing out their welcome in our book. I’m here to share my own take on what’s a no-no and what timeless touches you should consider instead. Let's dive into the design no-nos that are on the chopping block this season!

NO 01. The Showroom Clone

Turning your home into a carbon copy of a furniture showroom might seem like a safe bet, but trust me, it’s a no-go. A space that mirrors a catalogue page lacks the warmth and personal connection that makes a home truly yours. Instead of settling for a cookie-cutter look, why not let your space tell your own unique story? Infuse it with items that have a personal touch, give your space a curated feel, like that vintage chair from your grandma or that quirky sculpture you couldn't resist on your last vacation. Our homes should reflect our personalities, not the latest catalog spread. Remember, it's those personal touches that transform a space from just a house to a home filled with memories and character.

02. Overdoing Recessed Lighting

Overhead lighting should enhance, not overpower your space. Avoid the overly lit, runway-look by mixing light sources. It's easy to think that more lighting equals better visibility, but when it comes to recessed lighting, there's definitely such a thing as too much. An abundance of these lights can make your ceiling look like an airport runway, not to mention it can create a harsh atmosphere that feels more clinical than cozy. Instead of going overboard, aim for a balanced lighting scheme. Mix in different light sources like floor lamps, table lamps, and wall sconces to add warmth and dimension. Consider a striking chandelier or a pendant light as a focal point overhead. These layers of light not only enhance the visual appeal of your space but also create depth.

The way to a cozy and comfortable lighting setup is VARIETY NOT QUANTITY

03. Matching Furniture Sets

Resist the urge to buy your entire living room in one go! While it might seem convenient to purchase your entire living room set from one store, doing so can lead to a space that lacks character. True charm comes from a blend of various styles, textures and periods, which adds layers and interest to your decor. Instead of settling for a one-stop-shop approach, consider curating pieces with various shapes, textures, materials and eras. This approach allows your space to evolve naturally, giving it a collected, curated feel that reflects your personal journey. By mixing a vintage table, a modern couch you fell in love with at a boutique, and textural accessories from your travels, you create a living environment that's rich in stories and warmth, far from the cookie-cutter setup of matching sets.

04. Matching Every Metal

Who says your fixtures and hardware have to match? There's no hard rule that says every metal in a room must match! In fact, mixing metals can introduces a layer of depth and visual interest to your space. Feel free to combine a brass coffee table with iron sconces in your living space or blend brushed nickel plumbing fixtures with brass light fixtures and cabinet hardware in the bathroom. This approach not only breaks the monotony but also showcases your flair for a curated design. It's all about creating a balanced look that feels cohesive without being matchy-matchy. Mixing metals adds depth and interest to your space and it shows off your knack for layered, thoughtful design.

05. Curtains That Fall Short

Curtains that don’t kiss the floor? Definitely a design don’t. It’s like wearing pants that are a bit too short - awkward, right? To really pull a room together, hang those curtain rods high and let your curtains sweep the floor to create an illusion of higher ceilings and a more refined space. This simple trick does wonders, making your room look taller and your setup look custom-made. Plus, it adds that designer touch that says you know what you’re doing when it comes to style.

So, are you spotting some familiar slip-ups around your own home? It's all good - every home has its quirks! From matchy-match metals, or that living space that feels more like a store display, these slip-ups are just stepping stones. A little boldness and your unique spin can turn ordinary into extraordinary. Your home, your rules! Ready to mix, match, and mesmerize? Let’s transform your space from standard to stunning, making every corner shout 'you.'

Xx Paulina

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Design Tips

Paulina Carcach

With over 17 years in high-end interior design, Paulina Carcach is a designer known for creating bespoke interiors that not only reflect her clients' refined tastes but also enhance their well-being and happiness. Her approach to design is deeply rooted in storytelling and pushing boundaries, enabling her clients to connect with their living spaces in meaningful ways. As a dedicated mother of two energetic boys, Paulina brings a unique perspective to family-friendly design, ensuring practicality and warmth in every project. Her relentless passion, commitment to excellence, and ability to tackle any challenge, big or small, make her a standout in the world of interior design, crafting spaces that are not just visually stunning but also a true reflection of her clients' stories and lifestyles.