Home & Garden: Common Decorating Mistakes

Redoing a room is both an exciting project to undertake and an investment in your home. There are, however, some pitfalls DIY-ers can step into when taking on a project. While mistakes can be fixed, it’s best to skip them altogether. Let’s look at some common faux pas and how to avoid them.

Let’s begin with furniture. It is critical to measure to account for doors, windows, and built-ins. You don’t want furniture that is too large or too small. Often, shoppers see a large, comfortable-looking couch or sectional. Unfortunately, once in the space, it seems crowded and gives the appearance that the room is much smaller than it is. This couch now appears quite uncomfortable–the opposite of what drew you to the piece. Measure well so both form and function can co-exist.

Rugs and lighting can be problematic for those redoing a room. It is important to note that the eye travels to the floor and sets the dimension of the rug as the defining mark of room size. In other words, a small rug in a big space causes the room to shrink visually. Instead, follow the rule of thumb that one-third of each piece of furniture should sit comfortably on the rug. Alternately, furniture can sit entirely on the rug. In either case, the room will feel true in size and scope. When it comes to lighting, function is as important as form. One overhead light in a conversation space (den or living room) or bedroom will result in a colder, less flattering design. Add lamps to warm up the space with light and the proper mood.

Elongate walls by elevating curtain rods several inches above the natural window frame. Most hang rods along the frame edge, and some opt for a few inches below. Both will shorten walls visually. Elevating them will make walls appear taller and, thus, the room will seem larger.

As you decorate, pay attention to the décor selected to ‘trim out’ the room. Whether pillows, plants, accessories, or books, the volume, textures, and placement are important design elements. Avoid a cluttered feel by opting for less on coffee and end tables and shelves. A table with a small stack of books needs nothing else. Shelves need only an item or two to catch the eye. Prevent a flat design by blending natural materials (wood, stone) with a variety of textures (fabrics, leather). A leather couch with textured pillows and a stone table adds layers both literally and visually. Most buy artwork and mirrors too small for the wall. When in doubt, scale up a size. Both should be hung just above eye length—no higher. Size and scale for artwork and mirrors is recommended at two-thirds to three-quarters of the width of the furniture below. While a collage of smaller pieces is a nice touch, keep it to one spot—not in the room…in the whole home. Too many will look muddled if placed all over.

Peruse design magazines or furniture stores for ideas. You’ll get a sense of size and scale to help you avoid most ‘oops’ moments like those described above. Enjoy your new space.