Stop! Step Away From the Paintbrush — Here's 4 Things Interior Designers Would Never, Ever Paint Around the Home

Entryways are crucial spaces in a home, serving as the first impression for guests and a vital transition zone for residents. Despite their importance, they are often challenging to furnish and decorate effectively. Interior designers emphasize that a well-designed entryway should be both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional, free from clutter and potential hazards. This involves careful consideration of what items to include and, more importantly, what to avoid. One common item designers advise against is chunky or slippery rugs. While rugs can add warmth and style, bulky options pose a trip hazard, especially in a high-traffic area where people are often rushing. Slippery rugs, even if less chunky, are also problematic unless securely anchored with a rug pad. Natural fiber rugs like jute and sisal are also not recommended for entryways. Despite their popularity, these materials are prone to staining, particularly from muddy shoes, making them impractical for an area exposed to dirt and moisture. Instead, designers suggest durable fabric rugs that are easy to clean and feature darker colors or patterns to conceal marks. Open shelving, while useful for displaying decorative items, can quickly lead to a cluttered entryway. Designers advocate for closed storage solutions to maintain a neat and organized appearance. Console tables with drawers and tucked-away baskets offer practical storage for essentials like keys, mail, and purses, keeping them out of sight. This approach ensures that the entryway remains welcoming and tidy, rather than appearing chaotic. Another element to reconsider is a prominent display of coats and shoes. While convenient, wall-mounted coat hooks often result in a messy pile of jackets, detracting from the entryway's overall aesthetic. Lucy Derbyshire of Studio QD advises concealed coat storage, such as an entryway wardrobe, to keep the area clean and spacious, creating a positive first impression. This is particularly important for storing a family's seasonal outerwear and footwear, which can otherwise overwhelm the space. Umbrella stands also fall into the category of items to avoid. Designers note that these can easily become cluttered, serving as receptacles for not just umbrellas but also hats, scarves, gloves, and pet leashes. A more discreet solution, such as a stylish wall-mounted holder or a designated, hidden spot, is preferred to prevent unsightly mounds of miscellaneous items. The goal is to keep such practical items accessible yet out of immediate view. Finally, excessive decor is a common mistake that can make an entryway feel cramped and overwhelming. While it's tempting to adorn this space with numerous decorative pieces, designers recommend a minimalist approach. Focusing on one or two statement pieces, such as striking artwork or a unique sculpture, can create visual interest without cluttering the area. The key is to balance aesthetic appeal with functionality, ensuring the entryway remains clear, inviting, and reflective of the home's overall design while also accommodating daily needs efficiently. #EntrywayDesign #InteriorDecor #HomeOrganization #ClutterFreeHome #InteriorDesignTips #StorageSolutions #RugSelection #FirstImpressions

Designers consistently highlight several common painting errors that can undermine the aesthetic appeal of a home. A critical first step to avoid these pitfalls is thorough color testing. It is important to test generously sized paint samples in the actual space, on multiple walls, and at different times of the day. This comprehensive testing accounts for variations in natural light, shadows, and existing room finishes, which can significantly alter how a color appears. Additionally, paint samples should be tested under the home's actual lighting conditions, particularly with the specific light bulbs intended for use, as different bulbs can drastically change a color's perceived hue. Another frequent mistake is selecting overly “clean” or pure colors. Designers prefer hues that are more complex and muted, often described as “dirty” with subtle gray or brown undertones. These nuanced colors, such as Farrow & Ball Pigeon, are considered more sophisticated because their dynamic undertones allow them to shift and interact with changing light throughout the day, providing a more refined and less juvenile appearance than true, vivid tones. When faced with a choice between two similar shades, the recommendation is to opt for the murkier one. Choosing a too-bright white is also a common misstep. While a crisp white might seem like a fresh choice, without the appropriate undertones, it can make a space feel cold, sterile, or jarring. Bright whites only work effectively in rooms with abundant warm natural light and when paired with carefully selected textures and materials that soften the contrast. A better approach is to select nuanced whites, soft creams, warm ivories, or whites with subtle blush or gray undertones, which introduce dimension and warmth, making a space feel more inviting and thoughtfully designed. Ceilings are often neglected in the painting process, typically receiving a basic flat white coat. This oversight is particularly problematic with sloped ceilings, where a stark white cutoff line can disrupt the room's balance, making it feel cramped and disjointed. Designers advise extending the wall color up to the ceiling to create a more cohesive and balanced look. The incorrect choice of paint finish is another error. While glossy sheens can be elegant, they demand perfectly prepped walls, as any imperfections will be highlighted. Conversely, matte finishes are forgiving and offer a soft look but are impractical in high-traffic areas due to their susceptibility to scuffs and difficulty in cleaning. A recommended formula for most homes includes eggshell for walls, satin for trim, and flat for ceilings, offering a balance of durability, contrast, and timeless appeal. Some designers even suggest varying the color percentage and finish on different surfaces within a room, for example, using 25% of the wall color in a flat finish on the ceiling and 100% of the color in a high gloss on moldings and casements, to elevate the room's design. Accent walls are generally discouraged by designers, who advocate for enveloping a space entirely in color. If a particular hue is desired, it is suggested to incorporate it through upholstery or other decor elements rather than confining it to a single wall. When color transitions are necessary, they should ideally occur on an inside corner to ensure a clean, seamless line. Overlooking small room details is also a mistake. Painters should be instructed to match air vents and electric baseboard heaters to the wall color, using the appropriate finish (often satin for heaters), to ensure a truly “finished” and integrated look. This practice, known as color drenching, is considered a timeless and effective design strategy for achieving a polished interior. #PaintColors #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignMistakes #PaintingTips #ColorTesting #CeilingPaint #PaintFinish #AccentWalls

Mantelpieces, often seen as focal points in living rooms, offer a unique opportunity to enhance a room's aesthetic. However, interior designers emphasize the importance of careful curation to avoid clutter and maintain a sophisticated look. Overcrowding a mantel can detract from its style and the overall design of the fireplace. Professional designers advise against displaying certain items to ensure the mantel remains chic and impactful. One common item designers recommend against is an excessive number of family photos. While sentimental, a mantelpiece cluttered with mismatched frames can disrupt the visual flow and create a jumbled appearance rather than a cohesive focal point. To mitigate this, designers suggest selecting one or two coordinating frames for significant photos or reallocating the collection to a gallery wall elsewhere in the home. This approach maintains a personal touch without overwhelming the mantel. Another category to avoid is small, miscellaneous knick-knacks. These items can quickly make a mantel look cluttered and are better suited for other display surfaces like console tables or side tables. Instead, designers propose using a single large-scale piece of art or a modern television, such as a Samsung Frame TV, to create a striking visual impact above the mantel, offering a clean and curated alternative. Books are also often discouraged on mantelpieces, particularly large stacks. Given the typically narrow depth of mantels, books can appear overwhelming and out of place, making it seem as though there's a lack of proper book storage. If books must be displayed, they should be chosen carefully to match the mantel's scale, and their number should be limited, ideally to no more than three, to prevent a cluttered look. The display of multiple candles, especially those of varying sizes and colors, is another design faux pas. While candles contribute to ambiance, a diverse collection can create a chaotic impression. A more refined approach involves using a single, striking candleholder or a few matching or complementary candles to achieve a cohesive and elegant lighting effect. Finally, designers strongly advise against placing random objects on a mantel. The temptation to display a collection of individually appealing items can lead to an unsophisticated and visually chaotic arrangement. For a refined aesthetic, the focus should be on thoughtful selection and appropriate scale, prioritizing a few larger statement pieces over numerous unrelated items. Collections of such items are better presented in specialized storage like étagères or curio cabinets, allowing the mantel to maintain its status as an elegant and intentional focal point. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #MantelDecor #FireplaceIdeas #StylingTips #LivingRoomDesign #HomeStyling #DesignAdvice

When decorating a home, many individuals tend to focus primarily on painting the walls, often overlooking other areas that, when highlighted with color, can significantly enhance a room's aesthetic. This common oversight presents numerous missed opportunities to elevate a home's design. Interior design and paint experts emphasize the importance of considering architectural details and specific home features that can benefit greatly from a touch of paint. One frequently neglected area is radiators. Often perceived as purely functional and unattractive, radiators are commonly hidden with covers. However, painting a radiator can transform it into a stylish focal point or help it blend seamlessly with the room's decor. This is a relatively simple task that can dramatically improve the visual appeal of a living space. Additionally, the space behind radiators is often overlooked during painting, leading to an incomplete look. Ensuring this area is also painted contributes to a more polished finish. Another key area is the ceiling and cornicing. While painting the ceiling in a contrasting shade or as part of a color-drenching scheme is a growing trend, cornicing often remains unaddressed. Painting cornicing in a slightly deeper or lighter tone than the walls can subtly highlight period features, adding elegance and depth to the room's mood. Door frames are also frequently forgotten. Treating door frames with a contrasting color or matching them to the walls (if not white) demonstrates attention to detail and can make a significant impact. A colored door or a boldly painted door edge can introduce an element of surprise and invite intrigue into a space. Window recesses, the areas around window frames, are another overlooked spot. Painting these recesses can frame the view outside, turning it into a dynamic piece of art. Alternatively, the window frame itself can be colored, or a painted frame can be added to the wall surrounding the window. Choosing a color slightly lighter or darker than the wall can create subtlety, while a vibrant hue can add cheer. Staircases, though central to many homes, are often neglected in painting projects. Transforming a staircase with paint can infuse personality into the hallway and reflect the home's overall style, whether modern, minimalist, bohemian, or eclectic. An unexpected but impactful area for painting is the interior of shelves and kitchen cabinets. Adding a pop of color here creates a striking and joyful element, making interiors feel more curated and intentional. Even deep, moody tones inside wardrobes can create a cocooning effect, enriching everyday moments. Finally, alcoves, often found in living rooms, particularly in older buildings with chimney breasts, offer significant design potential. Painting an alcove in a lighter shade can make it appear smaller and blend into the room, while a darker shade can make it recede, appearing larger and more dynamic. Different paint shades can also create separate zones or cozy nooks within a room, or a single matching color can create a sleek, contemporary color-drenching effect. By considering these often-forgotten areas, homeowners can enhance their living spaces with thoughtful and impactful paint choices. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #PaintIdeas #RadiatorPainting #CeilingDecor #DoorFrameDesign #WindowDecor #StaircasePainting #AlcoveIdeas

The kitchen island, often the focal point of a kitchen, is a central element where both functionality and aesthetic appeal converge. Its prominence in a kitchen design necessitates careful consideration of what items are placed upon it, to ensure it remains practical, safe, and visually pleasing. Interior designers emphasize that while the island offers a significant surface for various activities, certain items are best avoided. These items can range from purely decorative pieces that detract from its utility to essential appliances that are better suited for other areas of the kitchen. One category of items to avoid includes fragile ceramics. While the allure of a large vase with seasonal florals might seem appealing, such items pose a practical risk in an active kitchen environment. They are easily breakable and, if heavy, can be cumbersome to move when the island is needed for food preparation. Designers suggest opting for decorative items that blend both beauty and utility, such as an artful utensil crock or a decorative tray for spices. These pieces enhance the kitchen's aesthetic without compromising the island's primary function or risking damage. Furthermore, accessories like hand towels, if a sink is integrated into the island, can add a stylish yet practical touch, especially when chosen in neutral colors with subtle patterns. Another common pitfall is overcrowding the island with too many display pieces. Given that kitchen islands typically offer the largest expanse of countertop space, there's a temptation to use it as a primary display area. However, an excess of decorative items can quickly lead to a cluttered appearance, negating the intended visual appeal. A clean, clutter-free island contributes to an inviting and functional kitchen atmosphere. Instead, designers advise selecting one or two well-chosen decor items, such as a small vase of flowers, a fruit bowl, or candles, to create a curated display that maintains the island's usability and prevents visual disarray. From a more practical and structural standpoint, integrating main appliances directly into or onto the kitchen island is often discouraged. While space constraints might sometimes necessitate exceptions, placing large appliances like a full-size refrigerator or a cooking range on an island can be problematic. A refrigerator on an island can be visually disruptive and inconvenient, while a cooking range significantly increases the risk of splatters and messes in a central, high-traffic area. These appliances are generally better accommodated on a wall, where their height and potential for mess are managed more effectively. Islands are ideally utilized for maximizing storage, providing additional seating, and serving as a dedicated workspace. Additionally, designers recommend against applying decorative paintwork or wallpaper to the kitchen island. The island's role is to provide a sense of solidity and grounding within the kitchen, making simple, clean lines more appropriate for its design. Decorative finishes on the island can easily become dirty due to frequent use and proximity to cooking activities, making them impractical to maintain. More playful and decorative elements, such as wallpapers or vibrant paint, are better suited for walls and other surrounding areas where they can create the desired impact without facing the same practical challenges. Finally, the placement of tall decor items in close proximity to pendant lights above the island should be avoided. Tall decorative pieces can obstruct views across the kitchen and, if too close to pendant lights, can create an unappealing visual conflict. Beyond aesthetics, there can be safety concerns if lights emit heat, posing a risk to nearby items. For islands with pendant lighting, it is best to opt for smaller, more proportionate decorative items to ensure functionality and maintain an unobstructed view. Alternatively, statement pendant lights can themselves serve as the primary decorative element. Ultimately, the guiding principle for decorating and arranging a kitchen island is to prioritize functionality, ensuring that all choices contribute to a harmonious, practical, and aesthetically pleasing space. #KitchenIsland #InteriorDesign #KitchenDecor #HomeOrganization #DesignTips #KitchenFunctionality #AppliancePlacement

The popularity of living room color trends fluctuates, with some enduring longer than others. While personal style is paramount, certain colors are increasingly considered outdated, making it time for a refresh. This article identifies four such colors and offers modern alternatives to help homeowners update their living spaces while maintaining their aesthetic preferences. First on the list is beige, a once-popular neutral that is now seen as bland and uninspiring. Architect and interior designer Martha Franco suggests that while beige can be relaxing and easy to decorate around, it lacks character compared to contemporary options. The minimalist movement previously favored beige, but current design trends lean towards complex color choices that express personality, making beige feel underwhelming. As an alternative, Franco recommends 'greiges' (gray-beige) or warm grays. These provide a versatile backdrop with increased sophistication, elevating the overall aesthetic of any space. Next, deep mustard is identified as an outdated color. Although it once had a strong presence, its intensity can be overpowering and potentially make a space feel dated. Franco notes that bold colors like deep mustard can clash with various furnishings. Instead of deep mustard, the recommendation is to opt for soft, muted yellows or light gold tones. These shades add warmth without overwhelming the room. Interior designer Ellen Holt emphasizes that light yellow living room colors can be very inviting, evoking happiness and energy. When combined with grays or beige neutrals, these lighter yellows can create a sophisticated look. Pastel mint is also deemed outdated for living rooms. While pastels can be refreshing in certain contexts, such as children's rooms, Martha Franco advises against their use in living areas. She argues that pastel mint doesn't create a welcoming ambiance and can instead give off a 'bathroom-like feel.' A more contemporary and sophisticated choice is sage green or a muted, earthy green. These natural shades introduce a fresh and modern aesthetic, better suiting refined spaces. Finally, pure white is cited as an outdated choice for living room walls. Previously considered the epitome of modernity, crisp, sparkling white is now typically reserved for trims or ceilings, and even then, softer whites with subtle tints are preferred. Franco explains that using stark white for all walls can result in a clinical and sterile atmosphere, a trend that has since passed. To avoid this, designers suggest warm whites with subtle undertones, such as ivory or cream. These alternatives add depth and warmth to a room while preserving a clean and timeless aesthetic. The current design landscape offers numerous sophisticated off-white options, making it easy to find a shade that complements a living room's overall color palette. #InteriorDesign #LivingRoomColors #ColorTrends #HomeDecor #DesignAdvice #ModernAesthetics #NeutralColors #OutdatedColors

The article highlights common mistakes and best practices when decorating small living rooms, as advised by interior design experts. The core message revolves around avoiding elements that can make a small space feel even smaller, emphasizing the importance of intentional and strategic design choices. One key piece of advice concerns color palettes. While dark colors can create a cozy atmosphere, an excessive use of them, particularly without contrasting shades, can make a room appear confined and cold. Instead, designers recommend pairing dark colors with warm neutrals like beiges, browns, and creams to create a more open and inviting feel. This approach helps to balance the visual weight in the room and prevent it from feeling overwhelmed by dark hues. Another critical aspect discussed is furniture selection. Oversized furniture is a significant deterrent in small living rooms, as it can dominate the space and make it feel cramped. The experts advocate for a 'less is more' philosophy, urging individuals to choose furniture intentionally. Multipurpose pieces, such as storage ottomans or small sofa beds, are highly recommended. These items save space by serving dual functions, providing both seating or sleeping arrangements and valuable storage solutions, thereby optimizing the utility of a limited area. Art and decor also play a crucial role in shaping a room's perceived size. Large, overbearing art pieces are generally avoided in small living rooms because they can throw off the room's balance and overwhelm the visual space. A more effective strategy is to select smaller art pieces and arrange them in a gallery wall. This technique allows for a focal point without creating visual clutter. Similarly, excessive decor can make a small room feel even smaller. Designers suggest a mindful approach to decoration, selecting meaningful and versatile pieces that reflect personal style without adding unnecessary 'noise' to the room, encouraging decluttering and choosing items that bring joy. Lighting is another element that needs careful consideration. Sole reliance on overhead lighting is discouraged, as it can create harsh shadows and limit the ability to set different moods. Instead, layering various types of lighting—ambient, task, and accent—is recommended to add depth and flexibility to the room's atmosphere. This layered approach ensures that different areas of the room can be illuminated effectively, contributing to a more dynamic and welcoming environment. The absence of plants is also identified as a common oversight. Greenery brings vibrancy and color, making a space feel less sterile and more alive. Interior designers frequently incorporate indoor plants, including air-purifying varieties, to enhance the overall ambiance. For those with limited gardening skills, low-maintenance plants like snake plants are suggested. Finally, the article advises against using dark, heavy curtains, as they absorb light and make rooms appear smaller. Light-favoring materials such as cotton and linen are preferred, as they allow natural light to filter through, contributing to a brighter and more spacious feel. These strategic choices collectively aim to maximize the functionality and aesthetic appeal of small living rooms.

This article delves into nine common decor choices that interior designers frequently identify as 'pet peeves' or 'mistakes,' offering insights on how to refine one's living space. It emphasizes that while personal taste is paramount, these tips can help individuals who value professional opinions in design. The first mistake highlighted is the use of all-white kitchen cabinets. Designer Anita Yokota argues that while once popular, they can make a space feel sterile and lack visual rhythm. She advocates for layered neutrals, incorporating creamy whites, wood shelving, natural stone with movement, and a mix of matte and reflective finishes to create a warmer, more emotionally safe kitchen environment. The second point addresses an abundance of cheaply made items. Caroline Kopp, founder of Caroline Kopp Interior Design, suggests that too many low-quality pieces can make an entire space appear inexpensive. She advises saving up for well-made, beautiful items, even recommending thrift stores for finding pieces crafted from real materials rather than plastic, cardboard, or Styrofoam. The third common error is incorporating too many trends. Purvi Padia, founder of House of Revelry and Purvi Padia Interiors, cautions against making a home a slave to current fads. She stresses that homes should reflect an individual's personality through a collection of beloved items and a compilation of different styles, ensuring authenticity and timelessness. Buying all furniture from the same store is identified as the fourth mistake. Yokota explains that this can flatten a home's energy and prevent it from evolving organically. She encourages mixing eras, materials, and finishes, pairing heirloom pieces with new ones to create a dynamic and supportive living space that reflects the owner's journey. Wrongly-scaled artwork is the fifth issue. Kopp provides guidelines for hanging art, recommending that pieces be placed at eye level. She also advises against hanging small artwork on large walls, suggesting that smaller pieces should be displayed on appropriately sized walls where they can stand out. The sixth mistake involves overlooking accessories. Padia recommends dedicating at least 10 percent of a design budget to accessories. She warns that even with high-quality furnishings, a lack of thoughtful accessories can make a space feel incomplete or 'flat.' Literal themes are the seventh decor choice designers wish people would avoid. Kopp emphasizes that themes should be sophisticated and nuanced, rather than overt or repetitive with motifs. She suggests using high-quality, antique items to subtly convey a theme, avoiding mass-produced decor. Overhead-only lighting is the eighth mistake, according to Yokota. She explains that it can make a space feel dull and unnatural. Layered lighting, including lamps, sconces, pendants, and candles, is recommended to create gentle shadows, movement, and a more relaxing atmosphere. Finally, the ninth mistake is decorating solely with resale value in mind. Kopp acknowledges the concern for future home value but advises against letting it stifle personal expression. She encourages homeowners to embrace decor that truly resonates with them, asserting that homes should reflect personality rather than being designed out of fear of impacting resale. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignTips #DecorMistakes #KitchenDesign #FurnitureSelection #ArtworkPlacement #HomeAccessories #LightingDesign

The article outlines eight kitchen design elements that interior designers advise against incorporating in 2025, emphasizing a shift towards thoughtful utility, quiet luxury, and designs that reflect how people genuinely live. These recommendations are based on insights from 11 design professionals who aim to help homeowners avoid outdated features and create more functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces. Built-in desks, a trend from the early 2000s, are now considered obsolete. Designers like Kelsey Matyas and Stephanie Martin explain that these desk nooks consume valuable storage and prep space, often becoming areas for clutter. Instead of serving their original purpose of organizing paperwork, they detract from the kitchen's primary function as a culinary and social hub. Designers now suggest re-purposing this space for more functional elements such as built-in bars, coffee stations, or extended pantries, which are less prone to clutter. Raised bar countertops, popular in the early aughts, are also out of favor. Emma Corner and Stephanie Martin describe these split-level islands as visually clunky and inefficient, hindering both functionality and cleaning. The physical and visual division they create conflicts with modern living trends that prioritize open and connected spaces. The current preference is for expansive, single-level countertops with sleek designs that provide ample room for food preparation, serving, and social gathering, offering a more contemporary and functional aesthetic. Microwaves placed over the range are another feature designers are moving away from. Michelle Murphy highlights that this placement immediately dates a kitchen and obstructs the potential for a beautiful and functional range wall. Hillary Cohen adds that it disrupts visual symmetry and elegance. Designers recommend integrating microwaves into lower cabinets, appliance garages, or pantries to maintain functionality without compromising the kitchen's aesthetic. This allows the range and custom hood to become the focal point, enhancing the overall design. Stainless steel vent hoods are no longer the preferred choice. While once associated with an industrial look, designers now seek texture, softness, and artistry in kitchen elements. Emma Corner notes that exposed stainless hoods often lack character when not thoughtfully integrated. Allison Handler considers them basic and an eyesore, advocating for warmer materials such as plaster, tile, or wood. Cynthia Ferguson views hoods as kitchen jewelry, favoring unique options like unlacquered brass with decorative edges. Sinks located in islands are also discouraged by designers. With kitchen islands serving as multifunctional areas for prep, socializing, and display, designers prefer to keep them clean and uninterrupted. Allison Handler and Kelsey Matyas emphasize that the sink should ideally be on the perimeter, maximizing the island's surface for entertaining and food preparation. In smaller kitchens, adding a secondary island sink can reduce workspace and often remains unused, making a larger main sink with a flexible faucet a more practical alternative. Open shelving, though once popular for its Instagram-friendly appearance, is losing favor due to practical concerns. Kelsey Matyas points out that open shelves accumulate dust and contribute to visual clutter, making them difficult to maintain for everyday use. Victoria Armour observes that while they look good when perfectly styled, they are impractical for daily living as they expose items like cereal boxes. Designers suggest a return to concealed storage, warmer tones, and tailored cabinetry, or using open shelves sparingly, especially when secondary storage is available. Pot fillers, once a symbol of high-end kitchens, are now questioned for their real-life utility. Hillary Cohen notes they are rarely used despite their luxurious appeal. Beyond their limited functionality, pot fillers involve installation complexities and maintenance issues. Michelle Murphy highlights that they are often more about aesthetic than purpose and can interrupt the design of a stunning backsplash. A larger sink with a flexible faucet is seen as a more practical and frequently used alternative. Double islands, the most contentious feature, are deemed unnecessary for typical homes. Kelsey Matyas argues that unless a kitchen is exceptionally large and used for extensive entertaining, double islands tend to obstruct flow rather than enhance it. Aimee Meisgeier suggests they can dilute social interaction, likening them to a cooking class or chemistry lab rather than a central gathering spot. The consensus favors one well-designed, hardworking island with deep drawers, expansive countertops, and integrated seating over two less effective ones, promoting a more cohesive and functional kitchen layout. Overall, the article highlights a collective move among interior designers towards more practical, aesthetically integrated, and less clutter-prone kitchen designs. The focus is on creating spaces that are both beautiful and highly functional, aligning with modern lifestyle needs rather than fleeting trends.

The article discusses five paint trends that interior designers consider outdated and suggests modern alternatives. It highlights how paint, despite being a transformative and temporary decorating tool, sees trends evolve rapidly. The first trend identified as outdated is the use of white trim with colorful walls. Interior designers now prefer painting trim the same color as the walls to create a cohesive, larger-feeling space through "color drenching." While tonal contrasts for trim can still work, the specific combination of colorful walls and stark white trim is seen as basic and passé. The second outdated trend is the accent wall. Designers note that this approach is becoming less popular as homeowners move towards more balanced and cohesive color schemes. Instead of accent walls, the article suggests creating visual interest through other design elements such as artwork, textured wallpapers, or architectural details like doors, window reveals, or even ceilings. These elements can act as focal points without the disjointed feel of a single accent wall. Thirdly, painting ceilings white while walls are colored is also considered an old-fashioned concept. Interior designer Kelly Hoppen suggests painting ceilings the same color as the walls to create an illusion of greater space and height, ensuring a seamless flow throughout the room. A white ceiling is only recommended when the walls are also white; otherwise, an accent color on the ceiling is preferred for visual impact. The fourth trend designers are moving away from is faux paint effects, such as those imitating Tuscan plaster or distressed textures. While textured finishes have recently seen a resurgence, these specific faux effects are deemed dated. To achieve a more sophisticated and modern look, the article advises using smooth finishes with complementary color palettes. For those desiring texture, more classic options like grasscloth wallpaper or decorative wall panels are recommended as alternatives that will not date as quickly. Finally, geometric murals, particularly those with strong, angular forms, are no longer favored by designers. These designs are often perceived as DIY-looking and are a departure from the current preference for softer, more organic design elements. For individuals interested in murals, the advice is to opt for designs incorporating circles, arches, and waves. Alternatively, wallpaper with interesting patterns or textures is presented as a more modern and effective way to add depth, personality, and a unique touch to a space, serving as a focal point or contributing to a cohesive design scheme. #InteriorDesign #PaintTrends #HomeDecor #ColorDrenching #AccentWalls #CeilingPaint #FauxFinishes #WallMurals #ModernInteriors

In recent years, interior design has shifted towards more considered, clutter-free, and often minimalist aesthetics, influencing wall decor trends significantly. The article highlights that the era of crowding walls with numerous photographs, multiple frames, and perfectly symmetrical arrangements is fading. According to Nitin Kohli, founder and principal designer of Nitin Kohli Home, once-trendy wall decor styles are now considered outdated, with designers advocating for a departure from old-fashioned methods of filling wall space. The article identifies four specific wall decor trends that designers are moving away from. The first is macrame wall hangings, which, despite their earlier popularity for introducing a handmade, bohemian feel, have become less favored due to mass production. Candace Shure, founder of Shure Design Studio, notes that their widespread availability has diminished their unique appeal, with designers now recommending a single, curated art piece or photograph that complements a modern home aesthetic. Secondly, oversized wall clocks are no longer considered a stylish choice. While they once offered a dramatic effect, they are now seen as jarring in sophisticated homes and occupy valuable wall space, especially in smaller rooms, which could be better utilized for more elegant decor or left blank to create a sense of openness. Nitin Kohli suggests opting for wall paneling to add a fresh and personalized touch instead of oversized clocks. The third outdated trend is mass-produced art. Designers express a strong preference for unique, one-of-a-kind, or customizable art pieces over manufactured prints or canvases. Mary Patton, founder of Mary Patton Design, emphasizes that art should evoke meaning and individuality, recommending platforms like Chairish for unique finds. Finally, busy gallery walls, which were previously used to display a variety of art and photographs to create an eye-catching focal point and reflect personality, are also falling out of favor. With the rise of minimalist living rooms, excessive gallery walls are being replaced by a simpler approach, utilizing fewer, larger art pieces to create impact without overwhelming the space. Oversized typography, once a bold statement, is also seen as overused, with a preference for more personalized and subtle art. Instead of these outdated trends, designers are embracing moody blues and dark green wall paints to create cozy and elegant atmospheres, especially when paired with warm lighting, moving away from light and neutral palettes. For current wall decor trends, the article points to living room mirrors, particularly those with organic shapes. Candace Shure notes the collective preference for curves and flowing lines in furniture and decor, making sinuous or squiggly-framed mirrors a popular and impactful choice that moves away from symmetrical and predictable designs. The article suggests that these contemporary choices reflect a broader shift towards more thoughtful, personalized, and less cluttered interior spaces. #WallDecorTrends #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #OutdatedTrends #ModernInteriors #MinimalistDesign #ArtSelection #WallPanels #OrganicMirrors

The article outlines nine specific colors that interior designers are avoiding in living room designs for 2025, offering alternatives to help homeowners create contemporary and inviting spaces. The overarching theme is a shift away from overused or sterile hues towards warmer, more nuanced, and grounding tones. This trend reflects a desire for comfort, sophistication, and a deeper connection to nature in home environments. Cool gray, often associated with the 'millennial gray' trend and the farmhouse aesthetic, is identified as a color that designers are no longer using. It is criticized for making spaces feel sterile and dated. Instead, warmer neutrals like taupe or mushroom beige are recommended to create a more comforting and layered ambiance, offering versatility with added depth. Pure red, despite its brief popularity with the 'unexpected red' trend, is also out of favor for living rooms due to its overwhelming nature. Designers suggest burnt sienna, an earthy red with brown undertones, as a more refined alternative. This shade provides warmth without intensity and can be used extensively, even for color drenching, creating a more grounding and livable feel. Navy blue, traditionally a classic color combination when paired with white, is now considered overused and capable of making small living rooms feel confined. A deeper, smoky blue-black with green undertones is proposed as a substitute. This alternative maintains a sumptuous quality while offering more nuance and adaptability, aligning with a desire for softer, more sophisticated palettes. Sage green, prevalent for nearly a decade, is deemed predictable. While its natural origins ensure some relevance, it is no longer a leading color trend. Deep olive green, a richer and earthier alternative, is recommended for its sophistication and grounding presence, offering a more luxurious and expensive feel compared to its pastel counterpart. Dusty rose, once embraced for its romantic aesthetic and used as a neutral, is now considered overdone and delicate. Natural terracotta blush tones are suggested as a contemporary replacement. These warm, earthy pinks provide a grounding effect and a richer, more sophisticated feel, reminiscent of raw plaster or baked clay, and serve as an excellent foundation color. Bright white is explicitly avoided for relaxing spaces like living rooms, as it can appear clinical and uninviting. Instead, off-white shades with hints of yellow, gray, or brown, such as chalky bone white, are preferred. These alternatives offer warmth and subtle richness, creating a more inviting and layered look that pairs well with natural textures. Hunter green, though alluring and often paired with wood tones for an organic look, is viewed as contrived and heavy for living rooms. Designers suggest deep green-black tones or rich earthy juniper as more contemporary choices. These shades offer a softer, more organic feel that connects with biophilic design and provides a timeless elegance. Mustard yellow, a millennial favorite often used as an accent with cool gray, is now considered dated and not versatile enough. Richer, caramel-toned alternatives or its use alongside other warm earthy shades like ochre and burgundy are recommended. Soft honey gold is highlighted for delivering warmth and vibrancy in a refined, livable manner, complementing natural woods and earth tones. Finally, eggplant purple, once valued for its playful and luxurious appeal, is criticized for lacking the nuance desired in 2025 living rooms. Mulberry brown, a softer, red-based brown, is suggested as a refined alternative that brings warmth and depth. Other options include sumptuous oxblood or burgundy, particularly when applied with a high gloss finish on millwork and trim, to update and refresh living room aesthetics.

The French interior architect Pierre Yovanovitch emphasizes incorporating a youthful and playful element into every room, a philosophy evident in his bold and unconventional use of paint. While his portfolio includes high-end projects such as châteaux, ski chalets, and wineries, he approaches these spaces with a sense of whimsy, often including unique furniture pieces like Papa Bear chairs and wavy benches. Yovanovitch's recently released book highlights this perspective, particularly his creative application of paint beyond traditional wall coverings, focusing on surfaces like door frames, ceilings, and bookcases to inject personality. One of Yovanovitch's innovative techniques involves painting the inside of door frames. At Villa Noailles in Toulon, France, few surfaces remain unpainted. The interior of door frames, for instance, are painted in vibrant yellow, with curvy motifs adding architectural interest to an otherwise ordinary doorway. This approach demonstrates how a simple change in paint application can dramatically transform a space. Another method involves drawing on existing colors within a room to create a cohesive yet dynamic look. In a different area of Villa Noailles, geometric archways echo each other's colors. A back wall painted in salmon pink and royal blue has these hues repeated on a third arch, demonstrating how multiple colors can be harmoniously integrated. Even with five distinct colors, their recurrence ensures a sense of connection and flow throughout the space, preventing it from appearing disjointed. Furthermore, Yovanovitch uses paint to create trompe l’oeil motifs on ceiling beams. At a vineyard in Portugal’s Douro Valley, he leveraged existing beams to craft a mural with red and blue tones and geometric patterns. This technique immediately draws the eye upward, making the ceiling a focal point. Despite the walls remaining bare and the furniture being largely neutral, this artistic application of paint creates an instantly eye-catching effect and adds significant visual interest to the room. These examples showcase Yovanovitch's signature style of using paint in unexpected ways to enhance the aesthetic and character of interiors, proving that paint can be applied to surfaces beyond walls to add a unique touch. #InteriorDesign #PaintIdeas #PierreYovanovitch #HomeDecor #DesignInspiration #CreativePainting #ArchitecturalInterest

The entryway of a home serves as the first impression, acting as a canvas to showcase interior style and setting the tone for subsequent living spaces. Given its importance, making judicious design decisions, especially regarding color, is crucial. While paint can instantly elevate an entryway's aesthetic, certain hues can negatively impact the space. Interior designers advise against using specific colors to avoid creating an unwelcoming or aesthetically displeasing environment. According to Devin Shaffer, Lead Interior Designer at Decorilla, entryways are challenging to design due to their role in balancing cohesion and contrast with the rest of the home. Consequently, five particular color tones are recommended for avoidance in this transitional area. Nishtha Dhand, creative director at NISH Online Interior Design, specifically highlights burgundy red as an unsuitable choice. Although red is often associated with luxury, burgundy red can make an entryway feel weighted and heavy, failing to achieve the desired welcoming, warm, lively, and homely atmosphere. Black, despite its potential as a maximalist statement in other rooms, is also considered inappropriate for entryways. Dhand explains that black can appear intimidating and lacks the calmness needed for this space. Beyond aesthetics, black paint can also be problematic from a Feng Shui perspective, potentially bringing a sense of dinginess and daringness that is not conducive to a welcoming environment for guests and family. Mustard yellow, while vibrant, is another color to approach with caution. Nishtha Sadana from Decorated Life warns that this shade can overexcite the space, making it feel excessively energetic. While yellow is linked to friendliness, a beige shade is suggested as a calmer alternative to achieve a similar sense of warmth without the overstimulation. Olive green, despite the general appeal of green in decor, is deemed undesirable for entryways. Dhand notes that olive green, a mix of green and yellow, can result in a muddy and earthy appearance, which is not recommended. Instead, shades like sage green are considered more suitable for connecting the indoors with the outdoors. Finally, teal, a popular choice for bathroom paint ideas, is discouraged for entryways. Dhand argues that teal’s quirky and eclectic nature can introduce too much energy and vibrancy, which conflicts with the goal of a calm and welcoming entryway. Its strong vibrancy is also not well-suited for Feng Shui principles in this particular space. By avoiding these five colors, homeowners can ensure their entryway creates a positive and inviting first impression. #EntrywayDesign #PaintColors #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ColorTheory #FengShui #DesignTips #DecoratingAdvice

The article explores specific areas within a home that design experts recommend against painting white, offering alternative color strategies to enhance the aesthetic and functional qualities of these spaces. While white paint is often considered a versatile and default choice for interiors, experts argue that its overuse can lead to stark, uninviting, or flat environments, and can also highlight imperfections and require more maintenance due to visible marks and scuffs. The first area discussed is the ceiling. Despite the traditional belief that white ceilings make a room feel lighter and more spacious, the article suggests this idea originated in the 1940s when lighting technology was less advanced. Modern design trends, such as painting ceilings in bold, contrasting colors or employing 'colour drenching' (where one shade covers all surfaces, including the ceiling), are presented as superior alternatives. A colored ceiling is described as the 'final piece of the jigsaw' in pulling a look together, offering a special and cohesive feel to a room. Dulux's 2025 Color of the Year, True Joy (a bright yellow), is cited as an example that could be effectively used on ceilings, evoking a sunny sky. Open-plan spaces constitute the second area where white is often ill-advised. While a white, loft-like aesthetic is appealing to many, painting large open areas entirely white can make them appear flat and lack depth. The article advocates for using color to create visual interest and zone different areas within an open-plan layout. Introducing tonal variations with soft neutrals or deeper shades helps to add warmth and definition. Farrow & Ball's 'Setting Plaster,' a pale, earthy pink, is recommended as a soft neutral alternative that can function similarly to a traditional neutral, adding subtle color without overwhelming the space. Skirting boards are the third feature addressed. The common practice of painting skirting boards white throughout a home aims to create a seamless and cohesive look, but this also makes dirt and scuffs highly visible. Interior and paint experts, including designer Kelly Hoppen, often recommend colored skirting boards as a more practical, personalized, and stylish option. Colour drenching skirting boards in the same color as the walls can create a seamless, contemporary look, making the space feel larger and more cohesive. Alternatively, using a slightly darker shade or an off-white can highlight period features elegantly. A forest green shade is suggested as a modern and considered choice for skirting boards. Finally, dark, narrow hallways are highlighted as the fourth area where white paint might be counterproductive. Contrary to the intuitive belief that white would brighten and expand a narrow space, it can make such hallways feel stark, clinical, cold, and flat, especially if natural light is limited. Instead, the article recommends using soft, warm neutrals or even deep, rich colors to create depth and a cozier atmosphere. A baby blue with warm yellow undertones, such as Lick x Calm Blue 08, is provided as an example of a light color with warm undertones that can effectively improve the feel of a dark, narrow hallway. #InteriorDesign #PaintColors #HomeDecor #DIYHome #CeilingPaint #OpenPlanLiving #SkirtingBoards #HallwayDesign