Discover the top 7 living room design mistakes you need to avoid in 2024. Learn how to create a stylish, comfortable space that reflects your personality and avoids common decorating pitfalls.
Did you know that the average person spends about 3 hours and 58 minutes in their living room each day? That’s a lot of time to be surrounded by design choices you might regret! Whether you’re a seasoned decorator or just starting to revamp your space, it’s easy to fall into common design traps. But don’t worry – I’ve got your back! In this article, we’ll explore 7 living room design mistakes that can make or break your space. By avoiding these faux pas, you’ll be well on your way to creating a living room that’s not only beautiful but also perfectly tailored to your lifestyle. Let’s dive in and transform your living room from meh to marvelous!
Interior Design by And and And Studio Photography by Ye Rin Mok
1. Overstyling Shelves and How to Master Curated Simplicity
Shelves can be tricky. They start as a functional storage solution, and before you know it, they’ve become a catch-all for every little trinket, book, and souvenir you’ve collected. But let’s get one thing straight: cluttered shelves don’t look curated—they look chaotic.
To keep your shelves chic and streamlined, think of them as a carefully curated gallery:
- Embrace negative space: Let some areas breathe; it creates visual rest and draws attention to your most meaningful pieces.
- Stick to a color palette: A cohesive color story will always look more polished. Think a few complementary shades, not a rainbow.
- Mix textures and heights: Combine smooth ceramics with rough wood, tall vases with shorter trinkets. The contrast adds visual interest.
- Use the “rule of three”: Odd numbers, especially groups of three, are your best friend when it comes to styling. It’s a visual trick that always looks balanced.
- Rotate seasonally: Switch things up once in a while. It’s a great way to refresh your space without buying anything new.
Your shelves should tell a story, not scream for attention. Keep it minimal, keep it intentional, and watch how your space instantly feels more refined.
Interior Design by Studio Ro+Ca Photography by MCA estúdio
2. Hanging Art Too High and Why You Need the Perfect Visual Impact
I can’t stress this enough—art should be enjoyed, not craned up at like you’re trying to spot a bird in the sky. One of the most common mistakes people make is hanging art too high, which throws off the room’s balance and makes it look, frankly, amateur.
The key is to hang art so the center of the piece is at eye level—typically 57-60 inches from the floor. Simple, right? But here’s what to keep in mind:
- Scale is crucial: If you’ve got a massive statement piece, you might need to adjust the height a bit to keep it balanced within the room.
- Above furniture? Keep it 6-8 inches above sofas, consoles, or mantels. It should be connected to the furniture, not floating off into space.
- Gallery walls: Think of the whole arrangement as one unit. The center of that “unit” should be at eye level.
Pro Tip: Use paper templates and tape them to the wall before committing. Trust me, this will save you from unnecessary patch jobs later on. Properly hung art creates a cohesive, polished look, and that’s the level of finish your living room deserves.
Interior Design by Laun Photography by Ye Rin Mok
3. The Problem with Accent Walls and Why Less Color Is More
Ah, the accent wall. I’m just going to say it—I’m not a fan. Most of the time, they feel like a half-hearted attempt to add personality, and end up making a room feel off-balance and disjointed. Sure, there are exceptions (hello, Le Corbusier-inspired color blocking), but unless you’re a master at it, steer clear.
Here’s why I say no to accent walls:
- They feel non-committal: Painting one wall while leaving the others bare can make a space look like you got scared halfway through the job. It’s design indecision at its finest.
- Creates imbalance: Unless you’re a pro at color theory, accent walls can throw off the visual flow of a room, leaving the other walls looking sad and forgotten.
- There are better ways to make a statement: Use color strategically throughout the room. Think a bold sofa, statement rug, or even a gallery wall that pops. These elements tie the space together without screaming, “Look at me!”
Accent walls might be popular, but that doesn’t mean they’re always the best choice. Opt for a cohesive palette that wraps around the room—one that says you planned the entire space, not just one corner of it.
Interior Design by Stewart-Schafer Photography by Alice Gao
4. Avoid the Catalog Trap and Create a Home That’s Unique and Personal
If everything in your home looks like it was purchased from the same brand and perfectly styled straight out of a catalog, that’s a designer no-no. The most interesting spaces have layers—they mix and match, they tell a story, and they don’t play it safe.
Here’s how to curate instead of copy:
- Mix different brands and styles: That modern sofa? Pair it with a vintage side table or a rustic coffee table. It’s the contrast that makes it interesting.
- Include personal, meaningful items: Weave in pieces that have history—like an heirloom ginger jar or sketches you found on your travels. These details add character and make your space feel uniquely yours.
- Thrift and travel finds: Don’t be afraid to shop second-hand or pick up treasures when you’re on vacation. These pieces are conversation starters and set your home apart from the rest.
And if you’re struggling to find the right mix, consider consulting a designer. (send us a message and we can help source and blend everything from cherished heirlooms to trendy new pieces.)
Interior Design by Ticiane Lima Photography by Renato Navarro
5. Skipping Curtains and the Right Way to Dress Your Windows
One of the most common decor mistakes? Curtains—or rather, the lack of them. From people skipping them entirely to those buying sad, too-short versions to save a bit of cash, window treatments can be a major missed opportunity.
Think of curtains like mascara for a room—they pull the whole look together. Here’s the rule of thumb:
- Always go high and wide: Mount the curtain rod 4-6 inches above the window frame, and extend it out so the curtains sit just outside the window’s edges. This way, you’re maximizing the natural light and making the window appear larger.
- Curtains should kiss the floor: No ankle crops allowed. Floor-length curtains create visual height and draw the eye upward, giving the room a more elegant feel.
- Consider fabric and layering: Sheer and heavy drapes together let you control light and privacy without sacrificing style.
And if you’re dealing with an awkward window? Roman shades, woven blinds, or even shutters can be great alternatives. No excuses—your windows deserve better.
Interior Design by Studio Ro+Ca Photography by MCA estúdio
6. Cliché Art and How to Elevate Your Wall Decor Game
Nothing screams “I don’t know what I’m doing” like a “Live, Laugh, Love” sign on the wall. If you want your living room to feel personal and sophisticated, avoid these overplayed, mass-produced clichés.
Here’s how to elevate your wall game:
- Go personal: Commission a piece from a local artist, or frame your own photography. Art should be about what you love, not what everyone else has.
- Think outside the canvas: Sculptures, tapestries, or even a beautifully mounted plant wall can bring life and texture to your room.
- Mix it up: A gallery wall doesn’t have to match; it should feel collected and curated. Combine different styles, mediums, and frame types for a more dynamic display.
The goal is to create a wall that tells your story, not someone else’s.
Interior Design by Studio Ro+Ca Photography by MCA estúdio
7. Skimping on the Details and Why the Finishing Touches Matter
You’ve nailed the big pieces—the sofa, the coffee table, maybe even that designer lamp you’ve been eyeing for months. But if your living room still feels a bit “meh,” it might be because you’ve overlooked the little things.
We know how easy it is to lose steam (and budget) toward the end of a project, but those final touches matter:
- Layer textures: Throw blankets, pillows, a textured rug, and small decor pieces. These elements add warmth and interest.
- Light it up: Overhead lighting alone is not enough. Layer in table lamps, floor lamps, and candles for a cozy, well-lit vibe.
- The power of plants: Real or faux, greenery breathes life into a space. Just a few plants can make all the difference.
- Curate your accessories: Style your coffee table, media unit, and shelves with care. This is where your personality shines through.
It’s these little touches that turn a house into a home. So, don’t skip them. Your living room should feel like a complete, cohesive space—one where every element plays its part.
There you have it – 7 living room design mistakes that can make or break your space! By avoiding these common pitfalls, you’re well on your way to creating a living room that’s not only stylish but also uniquely you. Remember, great design is all about balance, personality, and attention to detail. Don’t be afraid to break the rules occasionally, but keep these guidelines in mind as you craft your perfect living space. Now, go forth and design with confidence! Your dream living room awaits, and trust me, it’s going to be stunning.
If you want to upgrade even more your living room, check our Rules for Picking a Coffee Table it will give you wonderful insights and you will discover how to choose the perfect coffee table and make your living room look stunning!
