Five Common DIY Designer Mistakes
DIY design is often fun and rewarding. But it can also be full of pitfalls, sometimes creating a steep learning curve. For instance, after proudly selecting a piece of furniture, you might later look at it a few months later and wonder, “What was I thinking?” And that only scratches the surface of common DIY design mistakes. Interior design is a careful balance of a number of factors, including room size, color, lighting, and positioning. If you aren’t a trained professional, you may inadvertently commit one of these common design faux pas. But not to worry! Mistakes are a natural part of the learning process. Instead of fretting, brush up on this guide and avoid some of the most common mistakes.
Hanging wall art too high
Many DIY designers attempt to cover as much wall space as possible. One common mistake is hanging photos and wall décor too high. Consider the average height of people living in and visiting your home. If you hang art above that level, it won’t have the aesthetic value that you’d hoped.
Rushing through it
Ever see an interior that stops you in your tracks, only to think to yourself, “Wow”? You can bet that it was the result of much planning and preparation. If you try to furnish your living room in a matter of hours or days, you’ll most likely wind up with a room that feels—well, rushed. Take the time to think through and research your design decisions.
Not considering sound
If you’re outfitting a media room, for instance, acoustics should be an essential consideration. Choose soft surfaces—such as carpets, rugs, and upholstered seating—that absorb sound.
Not measuring up
Never invest in furniture or other large items without first measuring the dimensions of the room. Furniture that’s too big will make the room feel overcrowded and small. Make sure the pieces will fit through doorways to avoid last-minute disappointments. Also, avoid stuffing a space with too much furniture and accent pieces, as this will result in a cluttered feel. Allow sufficient “breathing room” between pieces.
Overdoing one color
If you love blue, it’s natural to want to feature that color in your home—but don’t go overboard. Add some accent colors to contrast with the primary shade. This will add dimension and visual appeal, and preventing too much of a good thing.
With the right planning and guidance, you can check these blunders at the door and prevent a case of “decorator’s remorse.”