Interior design mistakes to avoid in 2024

Interior design can be tricky. It's easy to make mistakes that throw off the look and feel of a space. As a UK homeowner doing an interior design project this year, you'll want to avoid these common pitfalls:

Measuring incorrectly

Precise measurements are crucial in interior design. If your furniture or layout is even slightly off, it can negatively impact the aesthetics and functionality of a room. Be sure to carefully measure each wall, window, door and furniture piece. Double check your numbers, and leave a bit of wiggle room for imperfections. Rushed or sloppy measuring will show in the final result.

Using the wrong lighting

Lighting makes a huge difference in the vibe of a space. Bold, white overhead lights would look stark and out of place in a cosy, traditional living room. Similarly, small table lamps would get lost in a large, open concept kitchen. Take time to choose lighting that enhances the style you're going for. Don't just default to what's easiest.

Following all the trends

While it's fun to incorporate popular new trends, don't go overboard. Trends come and go, so relying too much on them will cause your space to look instantly dated. Add timeless elements that suit your personal taste. Your home should reflect your lifestyle and personality, not whatever is trendiest right now.

Choosing the wrong paint colour

Paint colour has a huge impact on the feel of a room. Colours that are too dark or intense can make a space feel smaller and closed in. On the other hand, pale or muted colours may fail to create the desired ambiance. Select paint colours that align with the mood you want to achieve. Test samples on the wall before committing to get the right tone.

Neglecting cohesion

While some eclectic decor can be fun, overall your space should feel cohesive. If the furnishings, colour scheme and style clash too much, the room will seem haphazard instead of purposefully designed. Aim for pieces that work together to create a unified aesthetic. Repeat colours, textures and shapes to tie things together.

As we wrap up our discussion on common interior design mistakes, remember that everyone makes them. They're like little detours on the road to a well-designed space. If you find yourself stuck in a design pickle, don't stress! Reach out to CAD Illustrators and design pros.