30 Things I’d Never Have In My Living Room As An Interior Decorator

Welcome to a whimsical journey through the art of interior design, where I’ll be sharing 30 things that will never find a home in my living room. As an interior decorator, certain elements simply clash with my vision of elegance and comfort, and I’m here to guide you through what to avoid.

Join me as we explore these design faux pas with humor and insight, ensuring your living space remains a sanctuary of style and function.

1. Inflatable Furniture

If you’ve ever considered inflatable furniture for your living room, think again! Although inflatable sofas and chairs might seem like a fun and quirky addition at first glance, they are far from practical or stylish for a sophisticated living space.

How could you possibly enjoy a peaceful evening when every movement is accompanied by a squeaky sound? Furthermore, inflatable furniture lacks the durability needed for daily use, making it a poor investment in the long run. Instead, opt for pieces that offer both comfort and timeless appeal.

2. Overstuffed Animal Collection

Though nostalgia might tempt you to display your childhood collection of stuffed animals, it’s best left in storage. Where do these plush toys fit in an adult’s living room, you might ask? They simply don’t! An overstuffed animal collection can quickly turn a serene space into a chaotic clutter zone.

However, a single sentimental piece tucked away on a bedroom shelf can keep those sweet memories alive without overwhelming your decor. Choose sophisticated sculptures or tasteful artwork to express personal interests instead.

3. Bright Neon Signs

Bright neon signs scream for attention in spaces meant for relaxation. While these eye-catching lights can add a retro vibe to game rooms or bars, they disrupt the tranquility sought in a living room. However appealing they might be to your inner teenager, their harsh glow clashes with soft lighting, creating discord.

Instead of neon, consider using soft lamps or candles to establish a warm and inviting atmosphere. In this way, every guest can feel relaxed and at ease in your living space.

4. Plastic Slipcovers

Plastic slipcovers might have been all the rage in your grandmother’s house, but today they’re a decor faux pas. How can one truly relax on a couch covered in crinkly plastic? The aesthetic appeal is close to zero, and the comfort level even less.

Besides, plastic covers can trap moisture and dust, leading to unpleasant odors over time. Instead, choose stylish fabric covers that match your living room’s theme, offering both protection and aesthetic value without compromising on comfort.

5. Fake Fruit Displays

Fake fruit decorations can be tempting, but they often appear cheap and uninspired. Where genuine fruit adds freshness and vibrancy, artificial counterparts lack authenticity and vibrancy. Moreover, they collect dust, becoming more of an eyesore than a visual delight.

Instead, consider a real fruit bowl that not only enhances aesthetics but also encourages healthy snacking. This simple switch can transform your coffee table into an inviting focal point, linking beauty with practicality in your living room.

6. Wall-to-Wall Carpeting

Wall-to-wall carpeting once ruled the living room, but it’s now a relic of the past. How do you maintain cleanliness when every spill becomes a stain? Such carpeting can harbor allergens and is difficult to clean. Instead, opt for hardwood floors or sleek tiles, which are both stylish and easy to maintain.

Add cozy area rugs for a touch of warmth without the headaches of constant carpet care. This creates a contemporary, breathable space that reflects modern living.

7. Overbearing Floral Patterns

While a small floral accent can be charming, an entire living room dominated by floral patterns is overpowering. If every surface is adorned with flowers, where does the eye find rest? Such patterns can quickly become dizzying and dated. Instead, balance floral elements with solid colors or subtle textures.

This approach allows individual pieces to shine without competition, creating harmony in your space. Your living room will then exude a sense of calm sophistication rather than garden chaos.

8. Oversized Bean Bags

Oversized bean bags may promise comfort, but they bring a casual vibe that clashes with a refined living room. How often do you find yourself sinking into an awkward position? They often lack support and create visual clutter.

Replace these with stylish armchairs or a sleek loveseat that provides both comfort and aesthetic appeal. By doing so, you’ll maintain the elegance of your space while still offering a cozy spot for relaxation, proving that comfort and style can coexist.

9. Trendy Shag Rugs

Though shag rugs might invoke nostalgia for the 70s, they don’t pair well with modern tastes. How many hours will you spend trying to clean crumbs or pet hair from those long fibers? These rugs can appear dated and difficult to maintain. Instead, select flat-weave rugs that are both sophisticated and easy to maintain.

This choice offers texture without the hassle, keeping your living room looking sharp and stylish. Your feet will thank you for the smooth transition to modernity.

10. Wall-Mounted Fish Tanks

Wall-mounted fish tanks might seem like a striking feature, but they’re high-maintenance and space-dominating. Have you considered the constant care and cleaning required? Furthermore, the sound of bubbling water can disrupt the serene ambiance. Instead, opt for smaller, self-contained aquariums placed discreetly.

These offer a touch of nature without overwhelming the room. A balance of aesthetics and practicality ensures your living space remains a peaceful retreat, free from the demands of a full-scale aquatic display.

11. Oversized Abstract Art

Oversized abstract art can easily dominate a room, leading to an imbalanced aesthetic. Where does the eye rest amidst the chaos of colors and shapes? Such pieces can feel intrusive, leaving little room for other decorations. Instead, choose art that complements the room’s scale and color palette.

Smaller, curated pieces can enhance the environment without overpowering it. This approach ensures a harmonious visual experience, allowing each element of your living room to contribute to an integrated, pleasing design.

12. Outdated Entertainment Centers

Outdated entertainment centers are often bulky, taking up valuable space in what could be a sleek living area. Why let a cumbersome piece dominate your room when technology has moved beyond it? Modern wall mounts and minimalist shelving offer a cleaner look, freeing up floor space for more dynamic arrangements.

This shift not only updates your decor but also enhances functionality, aligning with contemporary design principles. Your living room will feel more open and inviting, ready for the latest media technology.

13. Excessive Throw Pillows

Throw pillows add comfort and color, but too many can clutter your couch, making seating impractical. How can one relax when constantly rearranging cushions? Instead, select a few that complement your color scheme and add texture, keeping the arrangement simple and sophisticated.

This strategy maintains comfort without sacrificing style, ensuring that your living room remains both inviting and functional. The right balance will highlight your furniture’s design, offering a polished yet cozy environment.

14. Vertical Blinds

Vertical blinds, reminiscent of office spaces, lack the warmth and style desired in a cozy living room. How do they enhance design when they evoke a sense of sterility? Instead, consider using curtains or roman shades that add elegance and texture, contributing to a homey atmosphere.

These alternatives offer better light control and aesthetic appeal, transforming windows into beautiful focal points. Your living space will benefit from a touch of softness, making it more inviting and visually appealing.

15. Mirrored Walls

Mirrored walls were once trendy, but now they can feel overwhelming and outdated. Why deal with constant reflections when you can opt for more subtle ways to enhance space? Instead, use strategically placed mirrors to reflect light and create the illusion of openness without overpowering the room.

This approach allows for more creative freedom in decoration, offering elegance and modernity. Your living room will then achieve a balance of space and harmony, free from the distraction of excessive reflections.

16. Cliché Inspirational Quotes

Cliché inspirational quotes might seem uplifting, but they often fall flat in a living room’s design landscape. How does generic text elevate your decor? Instead, choose personal artwork or family photos that resonate emotionally and visually with you and your guests.

This choice adds a layer of authenticity and warmth, making your space truly yours. By reflecting your unique taste, your living room becomes an extension of yourself, fostering a connection with every visitor and creating an inviting ambiance.

17. Clashing Color Schemes

A clashing color scheme can disrupt the harmony of your living room, leading to a chaotic atmosphere. Why create visual tension when cohesive colors can soothe the senses? Instead, select a palette that complements the existing elements, providing a serene and balanced environment.

This thoughtful choice ensures that each color enhances rather than competes, fostering a sense of unity. Your living room will then become a haven of tranquility, reflecting a well-curated style that speaks to both elegance and comfort.

18. Excessive Family Photos

Family photos warm a space, but too many can create visual clutter. How can guests appreciate your decor when overwhelmed by images? Instead, curate a gallery wall with a few select pieces, allowing each to shine. This approach maintains a personal touch without detracting from the room’s overall aesthetic.

By organizing photographs thoughtfully, your living room retains its elegance, inviting guests to engage with both the art and familial stories displayed. Balance is key to maintaining an inviting atmosphere.

19. Heavy Draperies

Heavy draperies can weigh down a room, blocking precious natural light. Why choose curtains that make your space feel dark and dated? Instead, opt for lighter fabrics or sheer curtains that allow sunlight to filter through, brightening the ambiance.

This simple change enhances openness and airiness, refreshing your living room’s appearance. By embracing light, your home feels more spacious and welcoming, providing a cheerful backdrop for daily activities and gatherings alike.

20. Artificial Plants

Artificial plants might require less maintenance, but they lack the vitality that real greenery brings to a space. How do plastic leaves invigorate your environment? Opt for real plants that purify the air and add a touch of nature.

Even a small potted plant or a vibrant bouquet can enliven a room, making it feel connected to the outdoors. This choice enhances the freshness and vitality of your living space, promoting a sense of well-being and natural beauty.

21. Gigantic Lava Lamps

Gigantic lava lamps, reminiscent of the psychedelic sixties, have an overpowering presence that clashes with my design sensibilities. Their unpredictably shifting globs of wax draw attention away from carefully curated design elements. Placing one in a living room would overwhelm any subtle aesthetics.

Furthermore, their sheer size and bold colors disrupt harmony. While a bedside table might accommodate a small version, the living room is simply not the place for these monolithic light fixtures. Stick with lighting that complements rather than competes with your room’s overall theme. This ensures a space that feels both inviting and cohesive.

22. Taxidermy Collection

A collection of taxidermied animals transforms a living room into a macabre museum. While some may appreciate the craftsmanship, these lifeless figures contribute an unsettling ambience. Their fixed, glassy stares can make guests uncomfortable, detracting from a room’s welcoming atmosphere.

Furthermore, they demand significant space and attention, overshadowing your decor’s subtler elements. Instead of displaying preserved wildlife, consider art that breathes life into your space with color and creativity. This approach enhances the room’s energy without veering into the eerie or bizarre, maintaining a balanced and warm environment for all who enter.

23. Oversized Abstract Sculptures

Oversized abstract sculptures in a living room can become monumental eyesores. These colossal creations often overshadow more essential design elements, dominating the visual space. Their chaotic forms clash with clean lines and minimalist aesthetics. Additionally, they can pose safety concerns, especially in homes with children or pets.

Instead of these towering sculptures, opt for smaller, thoughtfully chosen art pieces that enhance your living room’s theme. This creates a more balanced and harmonious interior, allowing your furnishings and decor to shine without being overshadowed by a singular, dominating presence.

24. Overly Large Coffee Table

An overly large coffee table can dominate a living room, making it feel cramped and difficult to navigate. The scale of the furniture must be appropriate for the size of the room to ensure comfortable movement.

Choose a coffee table that complements the surrounding furniture in size and style. Ideally, there should be enough space to walk around the table without obstruction.

Opt for a sleek design that offers functionality without overpowering the space. Consider multi-purpose tables that provide storage, adding utility without bulk.

25. Indoor Water Fountain

An indoor water fountain, while serene, demands attention, often becoming the room’s focal point. Its continuous flow and ambient sound can be distracting, overshadowing your design’s subtler aspects. Fountains also require regular maintenance to avoid algae buildup and leaks.

Instead of a bulky fountain, consider a small tabletop water feature that provides the same calming effect without dominating the space. This allows you to maintain a tranquil atmosphere while keeping the focus on your living room’s overall aesthetic. Such choices ensure practicality and elegance coexist seamlessly in your home design.

26. Massive Velvet Curtains

Massive velvet curtains, although luxurious, can stifle a living room’s light and airiness. Their heavy fabric weighs down the room’s aesthetic, creating a somber atmosphere. Such curtains overpower lighter, contemporary designs and can make spaces feel cramped.

Opt for lighter drapery or blinds that complement the room’s brightness and openness. This choice enhances natural light and airflow, creating an inviting space.

By avoiding overwhelming textiles, you ensure your living room feels spacious and elegantly balanced, welcoming guests with a fresh and vibrant ambiance rather than heavy opulence.

27. Hanging Cage Chairs

Hanging cage chairs, though trendy in some circles, introduce visual chaos into a living room. Their unconventional design can disrupt a room’s symmetry, creating focal points where none should exist. These suspended seats also pose practical challenges, requiring secure installation and regular maintenance.

Instead, choose seating that complements the room’s layout, ensuring comfort and style without unnecessary complexity. By opting for grounded furnishings, you maintain a cohesive and accessible design. This approach fosters a welcoming environment, balancing innovation with practicality in your living room’s decor.

28. Rotating Disco Ball

A rotating disco ball transforms a sophisticated living room into a perpetual dance party. While fun, its flashing lights and spinning reflections clash with a room’s serene design. Such elements belong in nightclubs, not elegant homes seeking a calm ambiance.

Instead, incorporate subtle lighting features that accentuate your decor’s beauty without overshadowing it. This approach maintains a refined atmosphere, allowing the room’s design elements to shine.

By choosing lighting that complements rather than competes, you ensure your living room remains a haven of tranquility rather than a chaotic dance floor.

29. Oversized Reclining Sofas

Oversized reclining sofas might seem like the epitome of comfort, but they can easily dominate a room. Their bulky nature often leads to a cluttered appearance, leaving little space for other essential furniture.

These sofas can disrupt the visual harmony of the living room, making it appear smaller and less inviting. Opting for a more streamlined sofa can open up the room, allowing for better flow and functionality.

For those who crave comfort without the bulk, consider a chic sectional that offers versatility and style without overwhelming the space.

30. Floral Wallpaper Ceiling

Covering a ceiling with floral wallpaper turns a living room into a botanical oddity. This choice distracts from furnishings and creates visual overload. Competing patterns and colors on the ceiling overwhelm the senses, making the space feel chaotic. Instead, opt for a simple painted ceiling that complements the room’s aesthetics.

This allows furnishings and decor to take center stage, creating a balanced environment. By keeping ceiling designs understated, you achieve a harmonious living space where design elements work together rather than compete for attention. This ensures your living room remains stylish and serene.