Interior design is all about creating spaces that are both functional and visually appealing. But even the most well-intentioned design enthusiasts sometimes fall into common pitfalls—those pesky “icks” that throw off the harmony of a room. Whether it’s curtains that don’t quite reach the floor or a rug that feels like an afterthought, these issues can easily be avoided with a bit of planning and know-how.
In this post, we’ll explore the biggest interior design icks, why they disrupt the flow of a space, and practical tips to fix them. Let’s turn those “icks” into “ahhs!”
Image: G i n i | Angelina Dörfler
1. Curtains That Don’t Touch the Floor
Why It’s an Ick:
Curtains that hover awkwardly above the floor can make a room feel incomplete and visually unbalanced. They interrupt the vertical flow of the space and can make ceilings appear lower.
How to Fix It:
Images: How to Make your Curtains Longer
- Measure Twice: Ensure your curtain length matches the height of your window from the rod to the floor. Standard lengths are 84, 96, or 108 inches, but custom hemming may be necessary.
- Choose the Right Style: For a polished look, aim for curtains that either:
- “Kiss” the floor: Barely touch it.
- “Puddle” slightly: Extend an extra inch or two for a more dramatic effect.
- Raise the Rod: Mount the curtain rod closer to the ceiling to elongate the room visually, ensuring the curtains fall all the way to the floor.
2. Art That’s Hung Too High or Low
Image: SamsOriginalArt
Why It’s an Ick:
Improperly placed art disrupts the eye line, making a room feel disjointed. Hanging art too high can make it seem like it’s floating away, while pieces hung too low might go unnoticed.
How to Fix It:
- Stick to the 57-Inch Rule: Center your art at eye level, approximately 57 inches from the floor. This is the average eye level for most people.
- Consider Context: If the art is above a sofa or console table, ensure there’s 6–12 inches of space between the bottom of the art and the furniture.
- Group Strategically: For gallery walls, treat the entire arrangement as one piece and center it around 57 inches, keeping balance in mind.
3. Too-Small Area Rugs
Why It’s an Ick:
An undersized rug can make a room feel disjointed and cramped, acting more like a coaster than a foundational piece. Rugs anchor furniture and define zones, so getting the size right is critical.
How to Fix It:
- Follow the Rule of Front Legs: In living rooms, ensure all furniture’s front legs rest on the rug. This helps unify the seating area.
- Choose the Right Size: For dining areas, the rug should be large enough so that all chairs remain on the rug, even when pulled out.
- Size Up: If you’re in doubt, go bigger. A larger rug creates the illusion of a more expansive space.
4. Overstuffed Rooms
Why It’s an Ick:
Overloading a room with furniture, decor, or knick-knacks can make it feel cluttered and claustrophobic, leaving little breathing room for the design to shine.
How to Fix It:
- Embrace Negative Space: Leave open areas in your layout to create balance and allow the eye to rest.
- Curate Thoughtfully: Limit decor to a few statement pieces rather than an overwhelming collection.
- Opt for Multi-Functional Furniture: Pieces like storage ottomans or nesting tables can reduce clutter while maintaining utility.
Redecorate Your Home to Showcase Who You Are Now
The Best Ways to Bring Positive Energy Into Your Home
5. Excessive Matching
Why It’s an Ick:
A room where everything matches—furniture sets, color palettes, and decor—can feel flat and uninspired. It lacks the layers and personality that make a space interesting.
How to Fix It:
- Mix Materials: Combine wood, metal, glass, and textiles for a dynamic look.
- Play with Patterns: Layer different patterns in complementary colors to add depth.
- Add Personality: Incorporate unique, one-of-a-kind pieces like vintage finds or handcrafted decor to break up the monotony.
6. Improper Lighting
Image: Balance + Rhythm
Why It’s an Ick:
Lighting is often overlooked, but it’s a cornerstone of good design. Rooms with harsh overhead lights or insufficient illumination can feel cold or unwelcoming.
How to Fix It:
- Layer Your Lighting: Use a mix of ambient (overhead), task (desk or floor lamps), and accent (sconces or LED strips) lighting to create a versatile and cozy atmosphere.
- Warm It Up: Opt for bulbs with a color temperature of 2700K–3000K for a soft, inviting glow.
- Dim It Down: Install dimmer switches to control the mood and adapt lighting to different times of the day.
7. Ignoring Proportion and Scale
Why It’s an Ick:
Furniture and decor that are too large or small for a room can throw off its balance. A giant sectional sofa in a tiny living room or dainty decor in a grand space looks awkward.
How to Fix It:
- Measure First: Always measure your space and the items you’re buying to ensure they’re proportionate.
- Follow the Rule of Thirds: Divide the space visually into thirds, using this as a guideline for placing furniture and decor.
- Anchor Large Items: Use larger pieces, like rugs or wall art, to anchor the space and tie smaller elements together.
Types Of Rugs: Which Rug Material Is Best for You?
Interior design doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By addressing these common icks and making thoughtful adjustments, you can transform any space into a harmonious and visually stunning environment. Remember, good design is all about finding balance, reflecting personality, and creating a space you love. Happy designing!
Discover more from Decoholic
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
