How to Fix the Top 5 Home Decorating Mistakes

Melissa Karl
by Melissa Karl

Creating a beautifully decorated home isn’t just about choosing the right colors or furniture—it’s also about getting the details right. Here are the top five common home decorating mistakes and how you can fix them to elevate your space.

Redesign Recommends!

Is your rug too small for your space? Check out these recommended large rugs that Amazon reviewers swear by!

1. Using Rugs Incorrectly

One of the most common mistakes is either not using rugs at all or choosing rugs that are too small for the space. Rugs are essential for defining areas and adding warmth to a room, but they need to be the right size.

  • Living Room: Ensure that at least the front legs of all your furniture pieces are on the rug. This helps anchor the room and create a cohesive look.
  • Dining Room: The rug should extend 24 inches from the edge of the table. This allows enough room for chairs to move in and out without catching on the rug.
  • Bedroom: The rug should extend at least 24 inches past the end of the bed. This creates a cozy, grounded feel and ensures your feet hit something soft when you get out of bed.

2. Relying Solely on Overhead Lighting

Good lighting is key to setting the mood in any room, but relying solely on overhead lighting can leave your space feeling flat and uninspired. To create a warm, inviting atmosphere, layer your lighting.

  • Overhead Lighting: Use it for general illumination, but don’t stop there.
  • Lamps: Add table or floor lamps for task lighting, which is perfect for reading or working.
  • Sconces: Wall sconces can provide accent lighting, highlighting artwork or creating a cozy ambiance. Layering these different types of lighting will add depth and dimension to your room.

3. Hanging Curtains Too Low

Hanging curtains too low is a mistake that can make your ceilings feel lower and your room smaller. To create the illusion of height, hang your curtains as close to the ceiling as possible.

  • Curtain Placement: Positioning your curtains high above the window frame draws the eye upward, making the room feel more spacious and grand. This simple trick can completely transform the look of your space.

4. Hanging Art Too High

Art that’s hung too high can throw off the balance of a room and make it feel disconnected. The key is to position your art at eye level.

  • General Rule: The center of your artwork should be 57-60 inches off the ground. This is the average eye level and helps create a harmonious look.
  • Above Furniture: If you’re hanging art above a sofa or other furniture, ensure it’s positioned 6-8 inches above the piece. This connects the art to the furniture and creates a more cohesive design.

5. Not Grouping Accessories or Varying Heights

A common decorating mistake is scattering accessories throughout the room without considering how they relate to one another. To create more impact, group your decor items and vary their heights, shapes, and textures.

  • Grouping: Create vignettes by grouping items on trays or in clusters of odd numbers—1, 3, or 5. This creates visual interest and makes your decor feel more intentional.
  • Varying Heights and Textures: Mix tall and short items, different shapes, and a variety of textures to add depth and personality to your space.


By correcting these common decorating mistakes, you can elevate your home’s style and create a space that feels more cohesive, inviting, and polished. Remember, the devil is in the details—getting these small elements right can make all the difference in your home’s overall look and feel.


Follow @room_remedies on TikTok for more design inspiration.

Comments
Join the conversation
Next