5 Mistakes to Avoid in Home Decorating

We have all been in other people's homes and noticed something about the decor that just doesn't quite fit. Sometimes it can be something simple, such as a particular grouping of figurines, or a 70's style couch that should have perhaps stayed in the 70's. Too many small items will make the home look cluttered. A few pieces of abstract wall art look great, a whole bunch on a single wall do not. Here are some of the do's and dont's of home decor.

Avoid Clutter

Small items like sea shells, and tiny collectibles are wonderful items all on their own, but when put together in large groupings they just tend to make the room look cluttered. Position items in like these in an eye catching container instead. Seashells, for instance, can all be put into a clear vase, giving them a finished look while still showing off their natural beauty. Organization is not only pleasing to the eye, but it helps make life feel less stressful.

Being Too Formal

There is nothing wrong with having a formal room or two within the home. However, if it seems too formal it will have a museum type feel about it and may make guests feel uncomfortable. Try adding personal touched to the formal room, even if they are slight. This puts visitors at ease, and makes the house feel more lived in.

Lack of Theme

Every room should have an overall theme, or at least a consistency. Mismatched items, or furniture and a wide splay of color in a room can be distracting, and well, ugly. Try keeping things together, to give each room its own individual feel. Sometimes less is more, and this is true in decorating as well. For a wide use of color while still maintaining a theme, use things like abstract wall art, and larger decorative items that will accentuate those brighter colors.

Avoid Fads and Short-Lived Trends

Certain trends may be popular now, but that doesn't mean they always will be. When it comes to some items, particularly furniture, they may be hard to get rid of once the trend or fad has passed. Make sure that the furniture or items are things that you will be happy with for a long time. Decorate in a style that suits you and not what is most popular right now.

Fake Flowers and Outdated Accessories

Choose great accessories to keep a room looking current. From classically simple wrought iron wall decor to contemporary metal wall hangings, there are beautiful options to suit every taste.

Also, as a general rule of thumb it is a good idea to avoid fake plants and flowers. They collect dust, and they aren't very appealing. Fresh flowers and potted plants are ideal for any home. If fresh flowers are beyond your budget try using dried flowers instead.

Small changes can sometimes have a big impact. Updating the hardware on your kitchen cabinets can be surprisingly refreshing, and go a long way towards making your kitchen look more modern. Door knobs, light switches and outlet covers are all things that are easy to change, and affordable.

Photo credit to evelynishere.