Interior Styling Mistakes You’re Probably Making (And How to Fix Them)
Are you struggling to achieve that perfectly styled, magazine-worthy look in your home? You’re not alone. Even the most seasoned interior lovers can fall into a few common traps. But don’t worry—once you know what to avoid, creating a space that’s both beautiful and functional becomes a whole lot easier.
In this post, we'll dive into the most common interior styling mistakes and share practical tips to help you fix them. Get ready to sidestep the styling slip-ups and start designing with confidence!
Mistake #1: Neglecting Scale and Proportion
One of the most common styling blunders? Getting the scale and proportions wrong. That gorgeous oversized sofa or statement chandelier might be love at first sight—but if it doesn’t suit your space, it’ll throw the whole room off balance.
How to fix it: Always measure your space before investing in furniture or decor. Choose pieces that are in proportion with the room’s dimensions. In a smaller living room, go for a loveseat or apartment-size sofa, instead of a large sectional. In a grand, high ceiling entryway, a delicate table lamp on the hall table just won't cut it - go for a show-stopping pendant or chandelier instead.
Mistake #2: Ignoring Negative Space
Filling every inch of a room can make it feel cramped and chaotic. Negative space—the gaps between furniture and decor—is just as important as what you place in the room.
How to fix it: Embrace empty space as a design element. It gives your room room to breathe and helps highlight the pieces you do include. So resist the urge to cram in every last trinket and accessory. Instead, be selective and leave some open areas to let your decor shine.
Mistake #3: Matching Everything
We get it - the idea of a perfectly coordinated, matchy-matchy room is appealing. But in reality, this approach can make a space feel flat and uninspired. The key to creating a truly stylish interior is to mix and match different textures, patterns, and finishes and even styles.
How to fix it: Mix it up! Layer different textures, materials, and finishes. Pair a sleek leather sofa with a rustic timber coffee table. Blend metallics—like brass and blackened steel—for visual depth. The goal is a collected-over-time look, not a showroom replica. This will create a layered, curated look that feels effortless and unique.
Mistake #4: Forgetting About Lighting
Lighting is one of the most underrated styling tools—and one of the most powerful. Proper lighting can set the mood, highlight architectural features, and even make a room feel more spacious.
When styling your home, consider a layered lighting approach. Start with ambient lighting, such as recessed fixtures or a central chandelier, to provide overall illumination. Then, add task lighting, like table lamps or under-cabinet lighting, to illuminate specific areas for practical use. Finally, incorporate accent lighting, such as wall sconces or picture lights, to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
How to fix it: When styling your home, use a three-layered lighting approach:
- Ambient lighting such as recessed fixtures or a central chandelier, to provide overall illumination.
- Task lighting like table lamps or under-cabinet lighting, to illuminate specific areas for practical use.
- Accent lighting such as wall sconces or strip lighting to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
This combination creates mood, enhances functionality, and makes your space feel considered and complete.
Mistake #5: Neglecting Personal Touches
While it's important to create a cohesive, visually appealing space, don't forget to infuse it with your own personality. Even the most beautifully styled room can feel cold if it lacks personality.
How to fix it: Include pieces that reflect you. Family photos, artwork from travels, your favourite books, or vintage finds. These personal touches give your space soul.
Mistake #6: Failing to Layer Textures
Texture is a crucial element in interior design, yet it's often overlooked. A room that's lacking in textural variety can feel flat and one-dimensional.
How to fix it: Layer different textures to create warmth and interest. Combine velvet cushions, linen drapes, chunky knits, jute rugs, and glass or ceramic accessories. It’s all about the contrast.
Mistake #7: Ignoring the Power of Accessories
Finally, don't underestimate the power of accessories. It’s the little things that pull a space together. Under-accessorising can leave a room feeling incomplete. These finishing touches can truly elevate a space and bring your design vision to life.
How to fix it: Style your surfaces intentionally. Use trays, vases, stacked books, sculptural objects, or candles. Choose items that reflect your style and colour palette.
Ready to Style Like a Pro?
Successful interior styling isn’t about perfection. It’s about balance, intention, and personality. By avoiding these common missteps and using a few key design principles, you can create a space that not only looks stunning—but feels like home.
So, what are you waiting for? It's time to put your newfound knowledge to the test and start transforming your space into the stylish oasis you deserve!
