I'm an interior designer who works with wealthy, high-profile clients. I rarely see these 7 things in their homes.

This article, authored by interior designer Paynter Rhed, outlines seven categories of items she advises against purchasing at HomeGoods, despite her general appreciation for the store. While HomeGoods is acknowledged as a suitable destination for trendy decor and small furnishings, Rhed emphasizes specific areas where alternative shopping is recommended for better quality or value. Candles are one such item. Despite the appealing variety at HomeGoods, Rhed finds the quality inconsistent, with many candles failing to burn well or losing their scent quickly. She suggests investing in higher-quality candles from specialized stores to ensure a more satisfactory experience. Large furniture pieces, such as sofas, are another area of concern. While HomeGoods often features visually appealing larger items, the perceived quality does not meet Rhed's standards for significant investments. Furthermore, since these items are typically floor models, they are subject to wear and tear from numerous customers, leading to doubts about their longevity and condition. Regarding kitchenware, Rhed advises against purchasing pots and pans from HomeGoods. The store's stock of these items can be highly variable in brand and quality, making it difficult to assemble a cohesive, matching set. She recommends investing in complete sets from reputable cookware brands to ensure durability and consistency. Decorative letters and signs with quotes are also on her list of items to avoid. Rhed considers these items to be overused and often untasteful, particularly those that emulate a farmhouse aesthetic. Instead, she suggests opting for elevated art pieces or canvases to enhance a living space. The quality of large mirrors at HomeGoods is another point of caution. In an era where mirror selfies are popular, Rhed notes that many of the store's large mirrors can distort reflections, indicating lower quality. She advises testing mirrors by observing reflections from a distance and recommends investing in higher-quality options for such prominent decorative elements. When it comes to holiday decor, Rhed suggests strategic timing for purchases. While HomeGoods offers a wide array of seasonal items, she has found that waiting until the day after a holiday can result in significant discounts, often up to 50% off. This approach allows for substantial savings, especially for those who plan holiday decorations well in advance. Finally, Rhed avoids buying office supplies at HomeGoods. Although the store may offer attractive individual items for desk organization, it is challenging to find coordinated or matching sets. She prefers to shop elsewhere to ensure that all office supplies complement each other, contributing to a more organized and aesthetically pleasing home office environment. The article highlights that while HomeGoods offers many valuable products, careful consideration of quality, consistency, and long-term investment is crucial for certain item categories. #HomeGoods #InteriorDesign #ShoppingTips #HomeDecor #FurnitureShopping #Kitchenware #HolidayDecor #OfficeSupplies

This article explores the favorite home items of various interior designers, offering insights into products they would repeatedly purchase and tips on how to incorporate them into personal living spaces. Kimberly Bevan from Bevan Interiors highlights the Design Within Reach Rice Paper Shade, praising its ambient glow, large-scale buoyancy despite its size, and versatility across modern and traditional settings, all at an accessible price point. She advises light feather dusting for maintenance. Emily Vaughan of Emily Vaughan Interiors recommends the BlueStar Range, a professional-grade appliance acquired during a 1952 home renovation. She values its open burners for even high-temperature cooking, easy-to-clean cast iron cooktop, and capacity for two full-size sheet pans, noting that colorful appliance options could enhance cohesion in a kitchen. Shelagh Conway from Triple Heart Design values the Maison Distressed Black Oak 4-Door Buffet Sideboard as a substantial dresser that provides a grounding element in her large bedroom, adapting to various design changes. She suggests embracing black in bedrooms for a calming effect, often mixing it with other wood tones for textural depth. Byron Risdon of Byron Risdon Interior Design Studio endorses West Elm Luxe Chenille Throws for their softness, luxury, and durability, making them suitable for both guests and daily use. He looks for comfort, softness, and durability in throws, suggesting a size that covers the body without being overly large. Ariel Richardson, lead designer at ASR Design Studio, praises the Miele Washer and Dryer for its compact, stackable design, efficient cleaning cartridges, and ventless drying technology, which allows for flexible placement. She emphasizes the environmental and clothing benefits of front-load washers. Tamara Honey of House of Honey finds the Disco Ball to be an instant mood transformer, recommending its placement near a window to enhance the magical effect of glimmering lights. Aimee Meisgeier from AM Interior Design favors the Beta Modular Sofa for its deep comfort, modular customization, and corduroy fabric, which is both cozy and practical for pet owners. She advises measuring the space and defining needs before purchasing a modular sofa. Linette Dai of Linette Dai Design cherishes the CB2 Muse Smoked Coupe Glass for its chic design and modern aesthetic, using it for both cocktails and sparkling water. She suggests pairing coupe glasses with bite-sized snacks in sculptural dishes. She also appreciates the CB2 Suspend Walnut & Marble Media Console for its natural elements, beautiful walnut veneer, marble top, and practical storage. She advocates for minimalist styling of console tops with essential, functional decor. Azali Kassum of Azali Kassum Design collects Victoria Morris's ceramics, specifically the Large Gourd Vase in Ivory, for its unique handmade flair and sculptural elegance. She advises hand-washing ceramics with gentle soap and air-drying in the sun. Gina Gutierrez from Gina Rachelle Design recommends the Joss & Main Tellis Marble Picture Frame for its classic and timeless appeal, versatility in size and finish, and ability to fill empty spaces. She applies the “rule of three” for styling. Sarah Rinehart Fleischer of SRF Interiors finds joy in Dana Bell's painting, “Dancing on Yellow, 2001,” for its bold colors and perfect fit in an awkward wall space. She suggests keeping room measurements handy for online art purchases. Lorna Gross, CEO of LORNA GROSS Interior Design, finds the Jo Malone Lime Basil & Mandarin Home Scented Candle to be a constant source of calm. She advises keeping candle lids on to prevent dust and burn marks, and lighting kitchen candles after meals. Nadia Watts of Nadia Watts Interior Design highlights the Kartell Pilastro Stool for its unique lines, interesting shape, and multi-functional use as a side table, footstool, or extra seating. She prefers furniture that is both artistic and functional. Brianna Untener of Brianna Scott Interiors loves the Serena & Lily Milo Alpaca Throw for its softness, luxury, and year-round coziness. She prefers displaying throws on chairs to visually unify a room. Shauna Glenn of Shauna Glenn Design trusts the Annie Selke Paint Chip Multi Hand Micro-Hooked Wool Rug for its durability in high-traffic areas and ease of cleaning. She emphasizes regular vacuuming and shaking of wool rugs. Joni Burden of J. Banks Design favors the Gabby Laura Swivel Chair for its timeless elegance, compact size, comfort, and versatility. She appreciates swivel chairs in family rooms for their adaptability. Isabel Ladd of Isabel Ladd Interiors consistently uses Palmer Green Paint by Benjamin Moore, describing it as a deep, rich green with yellow undertones that acts as a neutral in maximalist aesthetics. She recommends using tinted primer and considering the desired ambiance when choosing green paint. Ariel Richardson also champions Ruggable Rugs for their durability, washability, and stain-repelling properties, making them ideal for households with pets and children. She advises washing on a delicate cycle with cold water and low heat drying. Abby Gruman of Abby Leigh Designs chose the Artistic Frame Studio Side Chair for its cane and wood contrast, modern flair, and traditional essence, valuing it for family gatherings. She notes the current trend of cane in unexpected furniture pieces. Laetitia Laurent of Laure Nell Interiors transformed her family room with Phillip Jeffries 9190: Beat Wallpaper, creating a living mural that unifies the space and encourages creative endeavors. She suggests regular dusting and occasional wiping for wallpaper maintenance. Alex Yeske of Alex Yeske Interiors appreciates The Rush House Original Rug, a natural fiber seagrass rug, for its warmth, texture, softness, and customizable, replaceable squares. She recommends vacuuming on a lighter setting and blotting stains for natural fiber rugs. Marie Cloud of Indigo Pruitt Design Studio values the Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine for its combination of functionality and quality, including an integrated burr grinder and steam wand. She suggests creating a dedicated coffee station. Paige Blodgett Scher of Paige Blodgett Interiors painted her entryway with Bancha Paint by Farrow & Ball to define and warm the small space, praising its yellow undertones and dramatic effect. She advises choosing darker shades to add depth to small areas. Cynthia Lananh of Cynthia Lananh treasures the Le Labo Santal 26 Classic Candle for its neutral, sophisticated scent and elevated packaging. She suggests pairing candles with design-savvy accessories. Brittany Hakimfar of Far Studio considers the Zip Water HydroTap Celsius All-in-One Water Filter Faucet her most beloved appliance for its instant still, sparkling, hot, and cold water delivery in luxurious finishes. She recommends classic chrome or matte black for contemporary kitchens and living brass for traditional ones. Finally, Lina Galvão of Curated Nest loves the Scout Design Studio Promenade Sofa for its approachable style, sculptural arms, comfort, and forgiving fabric. She notes that for modern, sculptural sofas, one might forgo pillows to let the shape shine. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignerPicks #HomeFurnishings #DecoratingTips #ApplianceRecommendations #Textiles #ArtAndAccessories #PaintColors

Vicente Wolf, an interior designer with over 40 years of experience and principal designer of Vicente Wolf Associates, shares his professional insights on specific decor items and design choices he would avoid in his own home. Wolf emphasizes that deciding what not to include in a space is as crucial as selecting what to buy. His recommendations highlight functionality, aesthetic appeal, and personal expression in home design. One key recommendation from Wolf is to avoid small coffee tables. He argues that coffee tables serve a practical purpose, providing a surface for items or even feet. A generously sized coffee table becomes particularly essential in the absence of nearby end tables or other flat surfaces. This advice underscores the importance of utility in furniture selection. Wolf also advises against incorporating plastic plants into home designs. He finds them lifeless and unchanging, lacking the joy and vitality of living plants. He also references the ancient practice of Feng Shui, which advocates for including living elements in every room to promote harmony and balance. This perspective suggests a preference for natural, dynamic decor over artificial alternatives. Another point of contention for Wolf is the use of fluorescent lights. He considers them too harsh for the eyes and believes they negatively impact the colors of the decor and skin tones, resulting in an unflattering ambiance. His preference is for lighting that enhances the environment and occupants rather than detracting from it. Wolf strongly discourages the use of matching bedroom sets. While convenient, he views them as lacking originality and appearing dated in contemporary home styling. He advocates for a more thoughtful approach, suggesting that coordinating different pieces offers greater enjoyment and allure, allowing for a more personalized and relaxed aesthetic. The designer also maintains that drapes should always touch the floor or puddle slightly (about ½ to 1 inch). He compares short drapes to ill-fitting clothing, emphasizing that proper length is essential for an elegant and cohesive look. This detail highlights the significance of appropriate sizing and proportion in interior elements. For dining, Wolf recommends cloth napkins over paper ones. Despite the ease of cleanup with paper napkins, he suggests that cloth napkins lend a more sophisticated touch, making them ideal for entertaining and a personal luxury for everyday use. He advises choosing quality cotton napkins that offer good absorbency for practical use. Wolf expresses a strong aversion to reproduced and mass-produced art, viewing it as a missed opportunity for personal expression. He believes that a home should reflect its inhabitants' lives and identities, and therefore, he prioritizes unique original pieces. He suggests exploring secondhand stores for affordable original art or framing personal photographs to add a distinctive touch. He points out that even simple items can look beautiful in a well-chosen frame. Faux fireplaces are another item Wolf would never include in his home. He considers them tacky and believes that electric inserts cannot replicate the authentic look and feel of a real fireplace. While he finds gas-powered fireplaces acceptable, his ultimate preference is for genuine wood-burning fireplaces, emphasizing that if a fireplace does not light, it lacks its true purpose. Finally, Wolf avoids furniture with visible branding, deeming it tasteless and unnecessary advertising for companies. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignTips #VicenteWolf #DecorChoices #FunctionalDesign #AestheticAppeal #PersonalStyle #HomeStyling

Jennifer Walter, a principal designer and owner of Folding Chair Design Co. with over 13 years of experience, identifies ten specific decor items and design styles she would avoid in her own home. Her recommendations aim to help individuals navigate the overwhelming number of home decor trends and make informed investment decisions. Walter advises against printed canvases featuring low-quality photos or pop art, suggesting that many of these pieces resemble stock images or mass reprints, which have declined in popularity. Instead, she recommends sourcing reasonably priced, framed artwork from online platforms such as Etsy, Minted, and Society6, as these pieces offer a more elevated aesthetic. Regarding structural elements, Walter expresses a dislike for barn doors, despite their prevalence in modern-farmhouse aesthetics. She notes that while they are often used to cover large walls or close off spaces, they do not universally suit all types of rooms and can appear out of place in non-farmhouse settings. The designer also considers Tuscan-style kitchens to be dated, characterized by elements like pink terra-cotta floor tiles, distinctive tile patterns behind range hoods, and intricate iron accents. As an alternative, Walter suggests using artisan tiles, such as Zellige tile, which are handmade, come in various colors, and offer an age-old look while aligning with modern design sensibilities. When it comes to personal photographs, Walter suggests avoiding displaying large, prominent arrays of standard school or family photos as a room's focal point. She recommends more artistic presentations, such as abstract or less obvious photos blown up and framed together in a hallway, or a black-and-white image of a pet used as focal art in a bedroom. Halogen floor lamps, particularly torchiere-style ones, are another item Walter would exclude due to their potential fire hazard, as their 500-watt bulbs can reach high temperatures. She advocates for modern floor lamps that incorporate current trends, such as rattan or velvet shades, or sculptural designs that function as both lighting and artistic statements. Walter also cautions against mixing disparate flooring materials and synthetic wood finishes throughout a home, as this can create a disjointed appearance. She advises maintaining a consistent flooring material and finish, or, if replacing all flooring is not feasible, choosing complementary materials like large-format tiles or carpet. Matching furniture sets, particularly for bedrooms and kitchens, are identified as a missed opportunity to inject personality into a space. Walter prefers selecting individual pieces to create a more unique and varied aesthetic, noting the availability of stain-resistant fabrics for kitchen and dining chairs that allow for upholstered options. Furthermore, metal window treatments are deemed undesirable due to their sterile appearance. Walter suggests using soft woven shades or other textured options available from online blinds companies or through designers, as these alternatives can enhance a window's appearance without the high cost of custom treatments. Lastly, wooden signs with generic slogans such as "home sweet home" or "live, laugh, love" are outdated. Instead, Walter recommends sourcing vintage signs from platforms like eBay or Etsy, or opting for diverse artwork to fill wall spaces creatively. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignTrends #JenniferWalter #DecoratingTips #Furniture #Flooring #WindowTreatments #ArtSelection #TuscanKitchen

This article explores popular home design choices that professional interior designers would avoid incorporating into their own homes, citing practical and aesthetic reasons. Three expert designers—Zak Gilby of DeVis Architecture, Jennifer Jones of Niche Interiors, and Rotem Eylor of Republic Floors—share their perspectives on six specific trends. First, the article addresses black and white kitchens. While acknowledging their classic appeal, designer Zak Gilby points out the significant maintenance challenges associated with them. White surfaces easily show every mark and stain, and many 'durable' white countertops can degrade over time. Conversely, black surfaces highlight scratches and dust, and can make a space feel smaller unless it's a large, open-plan room. As an alternative, Gilby suggests using softer, contrasting colors like creams, beiges, and light greys, accented with a bolder color, perhaps through appliances. He also recommends options like sage green or clay with terrazzo finishes for a more modern and inspiring look. Next, open shelving in kitchens is discussed. Jennifer Jones emphasizes that while open shelving appears attractive in design magazines, its practicality in real life is often limited. She notes that maintaining a perfectly styled and dust-free display daily is unrealistic for most homeowners. Zak Gilby agrees, stating that open shelving is best combined with closed cabinetry. He highlights that closed storage is essential for keeping dust and bugs away from items and is particularly necessary for individuals who accumulate mugs or Tupperware. The general advice is to reserve open shelves only for items suitable for display and regular dusting. Wallpaper in full bathrooms is another design element that receives a negative review. Jennifer Jones advises against it, explaining that wallpaper and moisture do not mix well, leading to potential damage and peeling. She suggests limiting wallpaper use to powder rooms where moisture levels are significantly lower. While the article acknowledges the existence of water-resistant wallpaper, it cautions that careful selection and professional installation are crucial for its longevity in high-moisture environments. Lacquered flooring is presented as a design choice that, despite its visual impact, designers would typically avoid in their personal residences. Rotem Eylor, for instance, appreciates the bold statement a black-and-tan striped foyer can make but finds such a look overwhelming for a personal home. These bold patterns can clash with other design elements and require constant maintenance to retain their pristine appearance, making them impractical for daily living. Eylor concludes that for everyday living, a more understated approach to flooring is often preferable. Mirrored walls, a trend making a comeback, are also dismissed due to practical concerns. Zak Gilby strongly opposes them for his own home, primarily due to the constant visibility of fingerprints, especially in households with children. He suggests that if the goal is to create an illusion of more space, small, strategically placed mirrors, kept out of reach of children, are a more functional and less maintenance-intensive alternative. Finally, the article examines small or mosaic tiles. Gilby notes that while intricate tile installations can be visually striking, their execution often depends heavily on the skill of an experienced professional. Inexperienced contractors may produce unsatisfactory results, leading to a subpar finish. A significant drawback of mosaic tiles is the extensive amount of grout required, which translates to increased cleaning and maintenance to prevent dirt and grime accumulation. Despite the ease of replacing a single broken mosaic tile, Gilby would avoid them in his home to prevent potential complications and disagreements with builders regarding their installation and upkeep. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #DesignTrends #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #Flooring #WallDecor #HomeDecorating #DesignerTips