6 Interior Design Mistakes You Might Be Making

Interior design is about more than just picking the right furniture—it’s about creating a space that feels balanced, functional, and inviting. However, even the most well-intentioned decorators can make mistakes that throw off the look and feel of a room. Here are six common interior design mistakes you might be making and how to fix them.

1. Choosing the Wrong Rug Size

A rug that is too small for a room can throw off the entire design.

A common rule of thumb is that a living room rug should be large enough for at least the front legs of your furniture to rest on it. In dining areas, the rug should extend beyond the table to accommodate chairs when pulled out. In bedrooms, a rug should frame the bed to create a cozy, unified look.

A living room with a perfectly sized area rug

2. Pushing All Furniture Against the Walls

Many people think placing furniture against the walls makes a room feel bigger, but this can make a space feel disconnected.

Instead, pull furniture slightly away from the walls to create a more intimate setting. Floating furniture arrangements encourage conversation, improve flow, and make the room feel more intentional.

A thoughtfully arranged living room with floating furniture

3. Overlooking Scale and Proportion

Selecting furniture and decor that are the wrong scale for a space can make a room feel awkward.

Avoid pairing oversized sofas with tiny coffee tables or using small artwork on a large blank wall. Instead, aim for a balance where each piece complements the surrounding elements. If you have high ceilings, opt for taller furniture and statement lighting to fill the space properly.

A well-balanced room with properly scaled furniture

4. Neglecting Wall Art Placement

Hanging artwork too high or too low can disrupt a room’s visual balance.

A general rule is to position art at eye level, approximately 57–60 inches from the floor to the center of the piece. When creating a gallery wall, arrange pieces so they feel connected rather than scattered. Larger walls may require oversized art or multiple frames to fill the space properly.

A stylish living room with perfectly positioned artwork

5. Using Too Many or Too Few Accessories

Decor should enhance a space, not clutter it.

Over-accessorizing can make a room feel chaotic, while too few decorative elements can make it feel sterile. Find a balance by curating a mix of textures, shapes, and heights. Use the rule of three when styling coffee tables and shelves, grouping items in odd numbers for a more organic look.

A balanced living room with curated accessories

6. Forgetting to Add Personal Touches

A perfectly designed room without personality can feel like a showroom rather than a home.

Incorporate personal touches such as family photos, travel souvenirs, or meaningful artwork to make the space feel uniquely yours. Mixing in vintage pieces, heirlooms, or handmade decor creates warmth and authenticity.

A cozy living space with personal decor elements

Final Thoughts

Interior design is all about creating a space that is beautiful, functional, and uniquely yours. Avoiding these common mistakes will help you achieve a well-balanced, stylish home that feels intentional and inviting.

Looking for more home styling inspiration? Stay tuned for our latest design tips and expert insights!