When it comes to decorating your apartment, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and make mistakes that can be costly both in terms of time and money. But fear not! With a little bit of planning and knowledge, you can avoid some of the most common decorating mistakes and create a space that is beautiful, functional, and uniquely yours. In this blog post, we’ll share some tips and tricks for avoiding common decorating mishaps in your apartment.
Mistake #1: Neglecting the Entryway
One of the most common decorating mistakes people make is neglecting the entryway. It’s easy to focus on the living room or bedroom and forget about the space where you actually enter your apartment. But the entryway is the first impression your guests will have of your home, so it’s important to make it welcoming and inviting.
Solution: Create a designated entryway space. This could be as simple as a small table or bench with a mirror and some hooks for coats and bags. You could also add some artwork or a rug to create a cozy feel. Just make sure the space is functional and reflects your personal style.
Mistake #2: Choosing the Wrong Size of Furniture
Another common decorating mistake is choosing furniture that is either too big or too small for your space. This can make your apartment feel cluttered or empty, and can also impact the flow and functionality of your space.
Solution: Measure your space before buying furniture. This will ensure that you choose pieces that fit properly and allow for comfortable movement throughout the room. Also, consider the scale of your furniture in relation to the room. For example, a large sectional sofa might look great in a spacious living room but could overwhelm a smaller space. Learn more about how to furnish your apartment by clicking the image below!
Mistake #3: Ignoring Lighting
Lighting is often overlooked in apartment decorating, but it’s an essential element that can greatly impact the look and feel of your space. Poor lighting can make a room feel dark and uninviting, while good lighting can make it feel warm and welcoming.
Solution: Consider the natural light in your apartment and choose lighting fixtures that complement it. Add lamps or overhead lights in areas where you need more light, such as reading nooks or workspaces. And don’t forget to layer your lighting, using a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create depth and interest.
Mistake #4: Forgetting About Storage
Clutter is the enemy of good design, and it’s easy to accumulate clutter in a small apartment. But forgetting about storage can lead to a messy and disorganized space.
Solution: Prioritize storage in your decorating plan. This could be as simple as adding some decorative baskets or shelves, or as elaborate as building custom built-in storage solutions. Look for furniture pieces that also offer storage options, such as a bed with built-in drawers or an ottoman with hidden storage.
Mistake #5: Choosing Trends Over Timeless Design
Trends come and go, and it’s easy to get caught up in the latest fads when decorating your apartment. But choosing trendy pieces over timeless design can lead to a space that feels dated and unappealing in just a few years.
Solution: Focus on timeless design elements that will stand the test of time. Choose neutral colors for larger pieces of furniture, such as your sofa or bed, and add pops of color and pattern with accessories. Invest in quality pieces that will last, rather than opting for cheap and disposable items.
Mistake #6: Neglecting Personal Style
It’s easy to get caught up in decorating trends or trying to please others, but neglecting your personal style can lead to a space that doesn’t feel like home.
Solution: Take the time to discover your personal style and let it guide your decorating decisions. Look for inspiration in your favorite spaces, whether they be homes, apartments, or even hotels. Consider the colors, patterns, and textures that draw your eye and make you feel most comfortable. Use these as a starting point for your own decorating scheme.
Mistake #7: Clutter
Clutter is another common decorating issue. It’s important to strike a balance between adding personal touches and keeping the space tidy and functional.
Solution: Invest in storage solutions, such as shelves or baskets, to keep things organized and visually appealing.
Mistake #8: Bad color choices.
When it comes to color, it’s easy to get carried away with trendy shades or bold patterns. However, it’s important to remember that you’ll be living in this space for a while
Solution: So choose colors and patterns that you truly love and will stand the test of time. If you’re unsure, start with a neutral base and add pops of color with accessories or artwork.
Mistake #9: Artwork is another element that can make or break a room.
Hanging artwork at the wrong height or in the wrong place can throw off the balance of the space.
Solution: When hanging artwork, aim for eye level and consider the scale of the piece in relation to the surrounding furniture.
Finally, don’t forget about the importance of texture. Adding a variety of textures, such as a plush rug or woven throw, can create depth and visual interest in a space.
In conclusion, decorating mistakes are common, but they can be easily avoided with a little planning and consideration. Take the time to discover your personal style, create a floor plan, consider lighting and storage solutions, choose colors and patterns that you love, hang artwork at eye level, and incorporate texture for a well-rounded and inviting space.
Become your own interior designer!
If you find yourself struggling with any of the common decorating mistakes mentioned above, don’t worry – you’re not alone! Decorating can be overwhelming and it’s easy to feel like you’re in over your head. That’s where an interior design coach can help.
As an interior design coach, my focus is on helping you discover your personal style and creating a space that truly feels like home. I provide one-on-one guidance and support throughout the decorating process, from creating a floor plan to choosing the perfect color scheme and selecting furniture and accessories that fit your style and budget.
My goal is not to sell you on a particular design or product, but rather to empower you with the knowledge and skills to confidently make decorating decisions on your own. I believe that everyone deserves a space that reflects their unique personality and I’m here to help you achieve that.
Whether you’re a first-time apartment renter or a seasoned homeowner, my interior design coaching service is tailored to your individual needs and preferences. Let’s work together to avoid those common decorating mistakes and create a space that you’ll love coming home to.
If you’re ready to begin your journey, learn how you can schedule an exclusive free consultation by clicking the button below.
P.S. There are limited spots available because I can only work with 3 clients at a time, if you are interested I suggest you click on the link. When all spots are taken this offer will no longer be valid.
