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4 Design Mistakes Experts Say We’re All Guilty of Making

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From choosing the perfect paint hue to sourcing complementary furniture and hanging artwork, there are a lot of decisions to be made when creating your dream space. With so many decorating choices to consider, it’s understandable if you don’t master everything the first time around. However, according to the professionals, there are some things that can — and should — be avoided at all costs.

We called upon leading interior-design experts to share the styling mistakes they always notice and how to fix them so that we can avoid them for good.

1. Using Rugs That Are Too Small for a Space

“Rugs are an investment piece, so it’s always best to invest in the biggest rug you can afford. A rug that is too small ruins the proportions of a space and makes other furniture look awkward. Rugs are a great way of creating zones and setting the tone of a space, and a bigger rug will make all the difference.”

2. Hanging Artwork Too High on a Wall

“The best way to avoid this is to center your artwork to the average eye level height (about five feet). That way it’ll be in proportion to the wall and is the most pleasing level to look at while moving through the room (without craning your neck up to the ceiling to admire your artwork).”

3. Incorrect Scaling of Furniture And Furnishings

“No one is immune to this one, even professional designers from time to time! But it is something that is avoidable. Double-check your measurements, never forget your tape or laser measure, and consider the space from every angle — how you’ll navigate the room, sight lines, and the size of furnishings — right down to the height of lampshades from the floor. Considering all these details in the planning and sourcing process will save you a lot of running around later!”

4. Overcrowding Rooms with Too Many Items

“A room bursting with too much furniture and too many decorative items is confusing to the eye. By not over-filling a space you allow one or two features to shine as the focal points.”

This article was originally written by Lauren Powell. For more, check out our sister site, Homes to Love.

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