25 Design “Facts” That Interior Decorators Say Are Total Lie
In the world of interior design, certain “facts” have been passed down like sacred truths. However, decorators are here to shed light on the myths that can hold us back from truly expressing our style.
Let’s explore these 25 so-called “facts” and learn how to create spaces that genuinely reflect us.
1. Dark Colors Shrink Rooms
Although you’ve likely heard that dark colors make a room feel cramped, decorators disagree. Dark hues can actually create a cozy, intimate vibe, especially when paired with lighter accents and ample lighting.
Picture a snug reading nook enveloped in navy or charcoal walls, offering a sense of comfort. By balancing with bright furniture or reflective surfaces, dark shades can add depth and sophistication.
Hence, don’t shy away from embracing these moody palettes; they might just transform your space into an elegant retreat.
2. Mixing Metals Is a Faux Pas
Mixing metals used to be frowned upon, yet it’s now seen as a chic design approach. Combining different metallic finishes can add texture and interest to a space.
For instance, imagine a kitchen where cool stainless steel meets warm brass, creating a delightful contrast that energizes the room. This blend brings out the best of both worlds, highlighting unique style choices.
Thus, don’t hesitate to mix silver, gold, or copper—it’s a trend that celebrates diversity and personal flair in design.
3. Open Shelves Are Impractical
Contrary to popular belief, open shelves are not just for the hyper-organized. With thoughtful arrangement, they offer an opportunity to display cherished items and add character.
Consider a kitchen where open shelves hold colorful dishes or potted plants, infusing personality into the space. These shelves make frequent items accessible and encourage creativity in styling.
Therefore, open shelving can be both functional and stylish, debunking the myth that they’re only for showrooms or minimalist enthusiasts.
4. Neutral Colors Are Boring
While neutrals have been labeled as dull, they are a staple for creating timeless and versatile designs. Neutrals provide a canvas that highlights textures, patterns, and art.
Imagine a cozy living room with taupe walls, accented by a plush cream sofa and intricate throw pillows, exuding understated elegance. The key lies in layering different materials and subtle hues to keep things exciting.
Thus, embracing neutrals allows for a serene environment while enabling pops of color through accessories and decor.
5. Wallpaper Is Outdated
Though once considered old-fashioned, wallpaper is making a comeback with a modern twist. Today’s designs offer endless possibilities, from bold patterns to subtle textures.
Envision a bedroom where striking geometric wallpaper acts as an accent wall, bringing a fresh and artistic touch. This dynamic element shifts the mood and catches the eye.
Therefore, wallpapers are versatile tools that can redefine a room’s character, proving that they are anything but outdated.
6. Small Rugs Are Better for Small Spaces
Contrary to what you might think, larger rugs can actually enhance small spaces. They create a sense of continuity and can make a room appear larger.
Picture a petite bedroom where a large rug extends beyond the bed, anchoring the space and adding warmth. This approach unifies the room’s elements and provides visual intrigue.
Thus, opting for a generously-sized rug can be a wise choice, contradicting the notion that small spaces require small rugs.
7. White Walls Add No Character
White walls are often thought to be bland, yet they offer a versatile backdrop that enhances other elements. They allow colors and textures to shine.
Imagine a living room with white walls that showcase a collection of vivid paintings and patterned textiles, creating a lively atmosphere. The neutrality of white enables playful experimentation with decor.
Hence, white walls are far from characterless; they’re a blank canvas inviting creativity, contrary to the belief that they lack personality.
8. Matching Furniture Sets Are a Must
The idea that furniture must match is outdated. Mixing pieces from various sets can create a more authentic and inviting space.
Consider a living room where a mid-century sofa pairs with a rustic coffee table, adding both charm and character. This approach highlights individuality and makes the space feel lived-in.
Thus, breaking away from matching sets allows for a personalized and dynamic design, defying traditional norms of uniformity.
9. All Ceilings Should Be White
While many insist on white ceilings, adding a splash of color can transform a space. Painted ceilings can enhance the room’s design, adding unexpected interest.
Imagine a bedroom with a pastel-hued ceiling that harmonizes with the walls, offering a cozy and inviting atmosphere. This subtle touch can elevate the entire room.
Thus, colored ceilings are a bold statement, challenging the norm that ceilings must remain neutral and proving they can contribute to the overall aesthetic.
10. Art Should Always Be Hung at Eye Level
The traditional rule of hanging art at eye level can be limiting. By varying heights, one can create a unique and engaging display.
Picture a gallery wall where artwork is positioned at different levels, drawing the eye throughout the space. This arrangement reflects creativity and personal flair.
Therefore, breaking this rule allows for more artistic freedom, encouraging a display that’s as distinctive as it is visually appealing.
11. Only Use One Bold Color
People often believe using more than one bold color will overwhelm a space. Yet, combining vibrant hues can result in a lively and balanced look.
Imagine a living room where teal, mustard, and coral coexist, each adding to a vibrant symphony of color. This mix energizes the environment and showcases personal taste.
Thus, embracing multiple bold colors can lead to dynamic designs, challenging the notion that a single standout shade is best.
12. Less Is Always More
The mantra ‘less is more’ doesn’t suit everyone. Maximalism, with its abundance of patterns and textures, offers a rich, vibrant aesthetic.
Consider a living room brimming with eclectic decor, each piece telling its own story. This approach showcases a love for variety and personality.
Therefore, maximalism proves that more can indeed be more, providing an inviting and curated feel that defies minimalist conventions.
13. Curtains Must Touch the Floor
The rule that curtains must always touch the floor overlooks stylistic flexibility. While floor-length curtains are elegant, they aren’t the only option.
Imagine a room where curtains puddle slightly, adding a touch of luxury and drama. This style breaks convention while maintaining sophistication.
Thus, experimenting with curtain lengths can enhance a room’s aesthetic, revealing that traditional rules can be adapted to suit personal taste.
14. Large Rooms Require Large Furniture
The belief that large rooms only suit large furniture is misleading. Mixing different sizes can create harmony and balance.
Picture a large living room with a mix of grand and compact pieces, each contributing to the space’s overall harmony. This approach invites flexibility and interest.
Thus, blending furniture sizes in large rooms fosters a dynamic design, debunking the myth that bigger always means better.
15. Every Room Needs a Focal Point
The notion that every room must have a focal point can be restrictive. Some spaces thrive on subtlety and harmonious design.
Envision a calm bedroom where soft textures and neutral tones create a balanced ambiance without a single standout feature. This space feels peaceful and cohesive.
Thus, not every room requires a focal point; sometimes, an even distribution of elements fosters tranquility and elegance.
16. Pastels Are Only for Nurseries
Pastels transcend their reputation as nursery staples. These hues can add sophistication and charm to any room.
Imagine a living room bathed in subtle pastels, where plush furnishings and delicate decor evoke elegance. This palette creates a serene, inviting environment.
Thus, pastels offer versatility and grace, proving they belong beyond the nursery and can elevate any space into a calming retreat.
17. Mirrors Should Only Hang on Walls
Mirrors are not confined to wall-hanging. Leaning a mirror adds depth and intrigue in unexpected ways.
Picture a dining room where a tall mirror leans casually, reflecting light and creating visual interest. This arrangement feels modern and playful.
Therefore, experimenting with mirror placement breaks conventional boundaries, enhancing a room’s design in imaginative forms.
18. Patterns Clash in Small Spaces
The belief that patterns overwhelm small spaces is outdated. By thoughtfully mixing patterns, one can achieve a cohesive and inviting look.
Consider a cozy nook where stripes, florals, and geometric prints coexist harmoniously. This approach adds depth and personality to a compact area.
Hence, patterns can indeed work wonders in small spaces, countering the myth that simplicity is the only answer.
19. Design Trends Should Be Followed Rigidly
Rigidly following design trends can stifle creativity. Personal expression within trends often leads to more meaningful spaces.
Imagine a living room that mixes mid-century modern with industrial elements, reflecting unique tastes. This eclectic blend allows for personal storytelling through decor.
Thus, while trends provide inspiration, flexibility fosters originality, encouraging spaces that resonate with individuality.
20. Contemporary Means Cold and Stark
The stereotype that contemporary designs are cold and stark is misleading. Warm materials and textures can create inviting contemporary spaces.
Picture a modern living room where sleek lines meet cozy fabrics and warm wood tones, offering comfort and style. This look balances modern aesthetics with warmth.
Therefore, contemporary design can be both stylish and welcoming, contradicting the belief that it must be devoid of warmth.
21. Dark Rooms Need Bright Lighting
Though bright lighting is often recommended for dark rooms, subtle lighting can enhance mood and ambiance.
Imagine a room with warm, dim lighting that highlights specific areas, creating an intimate and cozy environment. This setup feels inviting and relaxed.
Thus, embracing softer lighting options can transform dark rooms into welcoming retreats, debunking the myth that brightness is always necessary.
22. Accent Walls Are Outdated
Accent walls are not a thing of the past; they add depth and interest to modern spaces. Unique textures or bold colors make them stand out.
Envision a living room with a striking accent wall that contrasts yet complements the surrounding decor, enriching the room’s aesthetic.
Thus, accent walls remain a powerful tool in design, offering a canvas for creativity and excitement in any room.
23. Minimalism Is the Only Modern Style
Minimalism isn’t the sole hallmark of modern design. Other styles offer equally fresh and expressive alternatives.
Imagine a room filled with eclectic decor, where bold colors and unique pieces coalesce for a modern yet lively atmosphere. This mix highlights the richness of diverse elements.
Hence, modern design embraces variety, proving that expressiveness can coexist with contemporary aesthetics, beyond the minimalist paradigm.
24. Outdoor Furniture Should Stay Outside
Outdoor furniture isn’t limited to alfresco settings. Bringing these pieces indoors can add a fresh, relaxed vibe to any space.
Picture a sunroom where weather-resistant furniture blurs the line between indoor and outdoor living, inviting nature inside.
Thus, outdoor furniture offers versatility, proving adaptable and stylish within interior spaces, challenging the convention that their place is strictly outdoors.
25. Children’s Rooms Must Be Playful
Children’s rooms don’t have to be whimsical wonderlands. Sophisticated designs can create serene, functional environments for kids.
Imagine a child’s room with elegant furnishings and a calming palette, offering a sanctuary rather than a playground. This design prioritizes tranquility and elegance.
Therefore, chic children’s rooms demonstrate that simplicity and style can coexist, providing peaceful spaces that grow with the child, defying the usual playful stereotypes.