We all make mistakes, especially when it comes to interiors. I’ve seen it all (and maybe even committed a few in my early days .. shhh, don’t tell anyone).
But here’s the good news: most design missteps are totally fixable. You don’t have to knock down walls or throw your entire lounge room into the skip. Often, it’s about a few smart tweaks that can completely change the feel of a space. So today, I’m sharing a few of my favourite (read: most common) interior design mistakes, and how to turn them around without breaking the bank.
The Matchy-Matchy Furniture Set
Ah, the good ol’ living room set: identical sofa + matching armchairs + coffee table that looks like it was contractually obliged to be part of the package.
Why is it a problem? It can make your space feel like a showroom, not a home. It lacks personality, texture, and depth. You’ve got cohesion, sure but at what cost?
My fix: Mix it up. Contrast your sofa with a different style of armchair (bonus points for texture). Throw in a vintage coffee table or a side table that’s got a bit of a story. Play with materials, it’s all about layering.
Hot tip: If it all still “goes” together, but nothing matches perfectly, you’re doing it right.
Too Much “Stuff” Without a Story
You know the look – shelves jammed with random bits, cushions galore, candles in every corner, and still… it doesn’t feel quite right.
Without intention, even beautiful things can turn into visual clutter. And when everything’s fighting for attention, nothing gets to shine.
My Fix: Curate, don’t cram. Group items in odd numbers, vary heights, and leave some breathing room. I like to think of styling like editing a great outfit. Sometimes the best thing you can do is take one piece away.
Scale That’s All Out of Whack
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve walked into a room where the rug is too small, the art is floating too high, or the dining table could comfortably host a royal banquet (for two people).
Proportions are everything. The wrong scale throws off the balance of a room, even if you can’t quite put your finger on why.
My Fix: Measure your space first. Then measure again. And maybe one more time just to be safe, before placing any furniture.
Bonus Mistake: Designing a Home You Saw in a Magazine, Not the One You Live In
This one’s personal. Your home should work for you. Not for the trends, not for the algorithm, not for a Pinterest board.
So if your home is filled with white linen but you’re constantly sipping red wine, maybe it’s time to rethink that sofa. 😉
Design for your life, not someone else’s.
So, What Now?
If any of these made you nervously glance at your living room… don’t stress. Design is a journey, not a perfect science. Take your time. Tweak. Edit. Move things around.
And if in doubt, you know where to find me: https://emmablomfield.com/contact/
Thanks again for reading! Until next time …
Em x
