Interior Designers Share the Home Decor Tips Everyone Should Know Before They Turn 30

This blog post addresses common home decor mistakes that can detract from a space's aesthetic appeal, drawing on insights from interior design experts Tami O’Malley, Erin Carlson, and Niki Cheng. The article identifies five specific items that designers consider "tacky" and offers advice on how to avoid them or choose better alternatives to create a more polished and curated home environment. The discussion emphasizes the importance of intentional decor choices to enhance, rather than diminish, a room's overall harmony and sophistication. The first item highlighted is unrealistic faux plants. While artificial greenery can be a convenient option for those without a green thumb, designers stress the need to select high-quality faux plants that closely mimic real ones. Overly plastic or visibly fake versions are cited as detrimental to a space's atmosphere, making it appear neglected rather than lively. The experts recommend opting for realistic artificial plants or, ideally, incorporating live plants to introduce genuine freshness and vitality. The second tacky item is artwork in irregular sizes or poorly framed pieces. The article points out that while art is essential for adding character and depth, inconsistent sizes or cheap, plastic frames can lead to visual disarray. Designers advise homeowners to be deliberate in their art selection, ensuring pieces are appropriately sized for their intended space and framed in a manner that complements the room's design, thereby contributing to a cohesive and refined look. Flimsy rugs are identified as the third decor item to avoid. Rugs serve a crucial function in anchoring a room and providing warmth, but low-quality options are prone to shifting, curling, and rapid wear, which can cheapen the entire space. The experts suggest investing in durable, high-quality rugs that offer structure and definition. Additionally, the importance of choosing the correct rug size is highlighted, as an ill-fitting rug can disrupt the room's balance and layout. Fourth on the list are dingy window treatments. The designers explain that poor-quality or outdated window coverings, such as flimsy panels, can instantly make a room feel dated. They advocate for clean-lined window treatments made from quality fabrics, tailored to the correct length, and featuring details like pinch pleats for a timeless appearance. Complementary elements such as sturdy curtain rings and well-made rods are also recommended to complete a sophisticated window ensemble. Finally, inexpensive floor lamps are cited as a common decor misstep. Lighting plays a significant role in establishing a room's mood and ambiance. Floor lamps with awkward proportions, cheap finishes, or excessive ornamentation are noted for their ability to detract from a space's design, making it appear unpolished and dated. The article advises researching various styles and colors to select a floor lamp that harmonizes with the existing decor, ensuring it enhances the room's atmosphere rather than creating a kitschy focal point. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #DecoratingTips #HomeStyling #DesignersAdvice

The article explores various design choices that can unintentionally make a home appear dated, moving beyond the simple aging of furniture or decor. While vintage pieces, such as a mid-century modern lamp, can add character, blindly following trends or using matching furniture sets can inadvertently create an outdated aesthetic. Two interior designers, Megan Paulson of 22 Design House and Jasmine Crockett of JoyMeetsHome, offer insights into these common pitfalls and suggest approaches for creating a more timeless and personalized living space. One significant factor contributing to a dated home is the "trend trap." Designers advise against constantly pursuing ultra-trendy home decor items that quickly become obsolete. Such trends are often short-lived, leading to frequent replacements and unnecessary expenses. Instead, the focus should be on collecting pieces that are genuinely loved and will be cherished over time, thereby fostering a more enduring style. Jasmine Crockett emphasizes the importance of balancing timeless elements with trends that can be easily updated, ensuring that functionality, comfort, and the homeowner's unique personality remain central to the design. Another element that can make a home feel dated is discontinuous decor, characterized by a lack of cohesive design throughout the space, resulting in a mismatched and disjointed appearance. To counter this, establishing a consistent color palette across the entire house is recommended to create a sense of flow and unity. The article also points out specific outdated materials and styles, such as 1980s oak and country pine furnishings. The repetition of these specific wood types or entire sets of matchy-matchy furniture, like dark espresso pieces, immediately signals an older aesthetic. Designers suggest diversifying furniture choices to avoid this uniform, bygone look. The concept of themed bedrooms, particularly those that are overly extravagant or coordinated, is also highlighted as a design choice that ages poorly. Examples include nautical wallpaper or excessive floral patterns. A more contemporary approach involves incorporating subtle, low-commitment elements of a desired theme through accent pieces, rather than overhauling an entire room. This allows for flexibility and easier updates as tastes evolve. Excessive or specific textures can also contribute to a dated feel. Popcorn ceilings, heavily textured walls, dark wood paneling, and tiled countertops are identified as elements that can make a space appear old-fashioned. For a modern aesthetic, the article suggests opting for sleek materials such as marble and concrete, which provide a chic and natural texture without the risk of dating the home. Finally, matching furniture sets, despite their convenience, can create a predictable and outdated look due to their rigid uniformity. To achieve a more current and dynamic interior, mixing different shapes and textures among furniture pieces is advised, preventing excessive similarities and promoting a more curated appearance. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #DecoratingTips #TimelessDesign #HomeStyling #OutdatedTrends #DesignersAdvice

In home design, distinguishing between timeless elegance and fleeting trends is crucial. Interior designer Megan Khahil highlights several decor items that, despite their initial popularity, can detract from a home's overall aesthetic and make it appear dated or tacky. This perspective emphasizes the importance of thoughtful selection and long-term design versatility over temporary fads or budget shortcuts. One common culprit is industrial pipe shelving. While once considered a cutting-edge design element for its raw, urban appeal, its widespread adoption has led to overexposure, diminishing its novelty and impact. Khahil suggests that true industrial style should be intentional and polished, recommending cold-rolled steel floating shelves paired with authentic brick or stone accents instead of faux finishes. This approach introduces tactile materials purposefully, avoiding the generic appearance often associated with mass-produced pipe shelving. Another item to avoid is peel-and-stick decor, including tiles, wallpapers, and decals. While these products promise quick and affordable transformations, they frequently bubble, lift, and peel over time, revealing their temporary and inexpensive nature. Such shortcuts undermine quality and craftsmanship, ultimately cheapening the room's design. Khahil advocates for investing in authentic and durable materials like patterned tiles, natural stone, or high-quality wallpaper, asserting that a bit more effort results in a lasting and refined space. Plastic picture frames also fall into the category of tacky decor. Khahil points out that glossy plastic frames, especially those attempting to mimic more luxurious materials, often warp, scratch easily, and devalue the artwork or photos they contain. She advises using more substantial frames made from metal, wood, or high-quality resin. Mixing different frame styles and finishes thoughtfully can create visual depth and interest, enhancing the room’s aesthetic rather than detracting from it. Fake plants, despite their low-maintenance appeal, rarely replicate the life and vibrancy of real foliage. They gather dust, fade, and can signal neglect rather than style. Khahil recommends incorporating low-maintenance real plants such as snake plants, pothos, or monstera to bring authentic life, improve air quality, and add warmth to a space naturally. Animal print, when used excessively, can also make a room feel cluttered and loud. While a subtle touch of animal print can add personality, an overload crosses the line into tackiness. Khahil suggests using one or two statement pieces, like an accent chair or a throw pillow, combined with neutral colors or textures to balance the visual impact. Barn doors, once a symbol of farmhouse chic, are another decor item that has become overexposed. Their strong rustic character limits design flexibility and can quickly date a home. For privacy and space-saving solutions, Khahil recommends sleek pocket doors, which offer greater long-term versatility. Alternatively, open-framed entryways can create a classic architectural statement without committing to a restrictive trend. Finally, cheap souvenirs, often mass-produced and lacking authenticity, contribute to clutter without offering functional or aesthetic value. Khahil advises curating meaningful, handcrafted items from travels that serve a purpose or transforming travel photos into gallery walls or coffee table books to incorporate memories stylishly and purposefully. The overarching message is to prioritize thoughtful selection, quality materials, and timeless design over fleeting trends and inexpensive fixes to create a sophisticated and enduring home environment. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #DecoratingTips #DesignTrends #TackyDecor #HomeStyling #DesignAdvice #TimelessDesign

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

Distinguishing between an interior designer and an interior decorator is essential when seeking professional help to transform a space. While both professions aim to enhance the interior of a space, their roles, qualifications, and services differ significantly. Interior design often requires extensive formal education and training, typically involving studies in color theory, fabric knowledge, computer-aided design (CAD), drawing, space planning, furniture design, and architecture. Graduates often complete apprenticeships before establishing their own practices. In some regions, interior designers must pass an exam and register with a governing council, indicating a higher level of professional regulation due to the structural and safety aspects of their work. Interior designers are equipped to handle spatial planning, designing, and renovating interiors, which includes drawing initial floor plans and overseeing structural changes. They collaborate with architects and contractors to ensure that both the aesthetics and functionality of a space are optimized, whether for residential, office, or hospitality projects. Conversely, an interior decorator primarily focuses on the beautification of a space through style, color, furniture selection, and accessories. Formal training or specific educational degrees are not typically mandatory for decorators, as their work usually commences after structural modifications are complete. Their expertise lies in the surface appearance of a room. Many professional decorators, however, pursue courses in color, fabric, room layouts, and furniture styles, and certifications from organizations like C.I.D. (Certified Interior Decorators International) can authenticate their practices. Decorators excel at visualizing and implementing aesthetic changes, assisting clients with style choices, color schemes, purchasing furniture, selecting window treatments, and accessorizing. They frequently work directly with homeowners or business managers, collaborating with furniture makers and upholsterers to achieve the desired visual outcome. Both interior designers and decorators typically charge for their services on an hourly basis for consultations, visits, and the development of decor presentations. Alternatively, they may use a flat rate or a commission-based fee, calculated as a percentage of the total project cost, which includes materials, furnishings, and contractor fees. On average, a professional can add 10% to 45% to the project cost, with fees ranging from $1,500 to $15,000 or more, depending on the scope. The choice between hiring a designer or a decorator hinges on the client's specific needs. If a project involves structural changes, such as altering walls, moving plumbing, or adding windows, an interior designer is the appropriate choice due to their expertise in structural planning and ability to work with architects and builders. If the objective is purely aesthetic—like selecting wallpaper, paint, furnishings, or accessories—an interior decorator is well-suited to provide guidance and execute the vision. Ultimately, the distinction often blurs in practice, as many designers perform decorating tasks, and experienced decorators might capably handle projects involving contractors. Therefore, when hiring, it is crucial to clearly define project needs, review portfolios, check references, and inquire about credentials, experience, and partnerships. The most important factor is selecting a professional whose skills align with the project requirements and who understands the client's aesthetic preferences, ensuring adherence to timelines, budgets, and a transparent fee structure. #InteriorDesign #InteriorDecorating #HomeDesign #DecoratingTips #DesignProfessionals #HomeImprovement #SpacePlanning #AestheticEnhancement