24 Surprising Things Interior Designers Are Begging You to Never Buy Again

Welcome to a journey where we explore the curious world of interior design faux pas. In this enlightening guide, I’m here to share the top 24 things that might make your favorite interior designer cringe.

These items, once popular, have now become decor don’ts. So, let’s embark on this adventure with an open mind and perhaps a sense of humor as we uncover what should never find a place in your stylish haven again!

1. Mass-Produced Art

If you’ve ever walked into a room and felt you could be anywhere, mass-produced art might be the culprit. This type of decor lacks the soul and flair of original pieces. Imagine a living room adorned with a common cityscape or flower print that everyone seems to own.

Now, picture replacing it with a unique, locally-sourced piece. Suddenly, your space transforms, reflecting your personality. Instead of blending in with countless others, your walls tell a story. Art should spark conversation, not conformity.

2. Overstuffed Furniture

Where comfort meets chaos—overstuffed furniture often overwhelms a room. These giants, with their excessive padding, can dwarf a space, making it feel cramped. Walking into such a room, one might struggle to find flow or balance.

Consider opting for sleeker, more proportionate pieces. These not only fit better in various settings but also enhance airiness. Ultimately, furniture should complement, not consume, your living area, offering both comfort and elegance without the bulk.

3. Fake Plants

Though tempting for their low-maintenance appeal, fake plants often fall short of delivering the vibrancy of real greenery. Their plastic leaves can gather dust, turning into an eyesore rather than a delight.

Instead, consider investing in low-maintenance real plants. They not only purify the air but also bring genuine life into your home. Even a small succulent can offer natural beauty, proving that authenticity triumphs over imitation.

4. Bare Windows

Imagine a room where windows seem forgotten. Bare windows can make a space feel unfinished or even stark. Without proper dressings, they miss the opportunity to add warmth and style.

Consider adding curtains or blinds that complement your interior. These elements not only provide privacy but also soften the room’s appearance. Window treatments are like the eyebrows of a room—essential for framing a view and adding character.

5. Matching Furniture Sets

How often do we fall into the trap of uniformity with matching furniture sets? While they promise cohesiveness, they often result in a lack of individuality. Walking into a room where everything matches can feel more like a showroom than a home.

Instead, think about mixing textures and styles. Combining different pieces can create a curated look that feels authentic and lived-in. Your space should echo your uniqueness, not a catalog’s monotony.

6. Word Art Signs

Word art signs—those cheerful reminders to ‘Live, Laugh, Love’—may have overstayed their welcome. While they once added charm, they’ve become cliché in modern decor. Seeing them plastered across kitchens or living rooms can feel forced.

Why not use art that speaks through visual impact instead? A striking piece or a meaningful object can convey emotion without spelling it out. Let your home speak volumes without the literal narrative.

7. Plastic Outdoor Furniture

Plastic outdoor furniture often promises affordability but lacks durability and charm. These pieces can easily become brittle or fade under the elements, detracting from your outdoor oasis.

Consider investing in materials like wood or metal, which offer longevity and style. A well-crafted set can transform an outdoor area into a retreat, providing comfort and elegance that stand the test of time. Let’s prioritize quality over convenience.

8. Theme Rooms

Though it sounds fun, theme rooms can quickly become overwhelming and outdated. A child’s room decked out in pirate or princess decor may charm initially but soon feels restrictive as tastes evolve.

Opting for versatile designs allows for growth and personalization. Incorporate elements that can easily adapt to changing interests. This way, spaces remain fresh and reflective of the occupant’s current passions, rather than a past phase.

9. Over-the-Top Chandeliers

Chandeliers can add elegance, but when oversized or overly intricate, they dominate a space, often overshadowing other design elements. Walking into a dining room where the chandelier demands all attention can feel unbalanced.

Opt for lighting that complements the room’s scale and style, creating harmony rather than competition. A well-chosen fixture can enhance ambiance without overpowering the room.

10. Wall-to-Wall Carpeting

Once a staple of comfort, wall-to-wall carpeting has become synonymous with maintenance headaches and trapped allergens. Over time, it can wear, stain, and lose its appeal.

Consider alternatives like hardwood or tile with area rugs. These options offer ease of cleaning and a modern aesthetic, allowing you to change styles effortlessly. Embrace flooring that supports both style and practicality.

11. Cheap Flat-Pack Furniture

Flat-pack furniture can be a budget-friendly fix, but often at the expense of quality and longevity. Pieces may wobble or wear quickly, turning a quick solution into a recurring problem.

Investing in well-crafted furniture can pay off in style and durability. A solid piece adds character and stands the test of time, making it a smart choice for both wallet and home environment.

12. Overfilled Shelves

Overfilled shelves can turn from display to disarray. Cramming every nook with items creates clutter rather than showcasing prized possessions. A shelf brimming with knick-knacks loses focus.

Selectively curating items can transform shelves into focal points of elegance. Leave space for breathing room, allowing each piece to stand out. Balance is key, letting your collection shine without overwhelming the senses.

13. Ceiling Fans with Light Kits

Ceiling fans with clunky light kits can date a room, detracting from modern aesthetics. Their bulky presence often clashes with streamlined designs, turning functionality into a focal point.

Consider options with sleek profiles and separate lighting solutions. This way, you can enjoy the benefits of airflow without compromising on style. Let lighting and cooling work in harmony, enhancing rather than hindering your space.

14. Pet-Specific Furniture

While we adore our pets, oversized pet-specific furniture can consume precious space, upsetting a room’s flow. Giant cat trees or bulky dog beds often prioritize pet pleasure over human aesthetics.

Opt for designs that integrate pet needs into existing decor. Stylish solutions like multi-purpose furniture can cater to pets without sacrificing style. Harmony between design and functionality makes for a happier home for all occupants.

15. Outdated Linoleum

Old linoleum can drag down the entire look of a room. Its outdated patterns and wear can scream for a modern makeover. Kitchens or bathrooms with such flooring often lose their potential charm.

Modern replacements like luxury vinyl or tile can refresh a space, adding durability and style. These updates not only enhance appearance but also increase home value. Let’s move from the past to a present of possibilities.

16. Heavy Drapes

Heavy drapes can suffocate a room, blocking precious natural light and adding an unwanted heaviness. Their presence can make spaces feel dated and dim.

Consider lighter, more airy alternatives like sheer curtains or blinds. These allow light to filter through, creating a soft, welcoming environment. Embrace window treatments that enhance, rather than hinder, your room’s ambiance.

17. Obsolete Tech Stations

Remember when tech stations were a must-have? Now, obsolete tech setups clutter spaces unnecessarily. Old electronics gather dust, failing to serve modern needs.

Consider streamlined solutions like wireless setups and hidden cable management. These not only save space but also create a cleaner, more organized look. Welcome technology that seamlessly integrates into your home without dominating it.

18. Novelty Rugs

Novelty rugs, while initially eye-catching, can quickly become eyesores. Their bold patterns or vibrant colors often clash with existing decor, creating discord.

Opt for neutral or subtly patterned rugs that enhance rather than compete with your space. A well-chosen rug can tie a room together, offering comfort and style without overpowering your design.

19. Over-the-Top Curtain Rods

Curtain rods are meant to support, not steal the show. Extravagant rods can pull focus from the curtains themselves, creating visual imbalance.

Choose simple, elegant designs that complement the room’s decor. Let your curtains shine, framing windows without unnecessary attention. Subtlety in hardware can elevate the overall room aesthetic.

20. Cheap Foam Mattresses

Cheap foam mattresses might save money initially but can cost comfort and support. Over time, they often sag, compromising sleep quality.

Invest in a quality mattress that supports restful sleep and well-being. A good night’s sleep is invaluable, and a reliable mattress is a key component. Prioritize health and comfort over short-term savings.

21. Clashing Metal Finishes

Mixing too many metal finishes can create chaos in a room. A kitchen with clashing metals can feel disjointed, losing visual cohesion.

Aim for a harmonious blend by selecting one or two complementary finishes. Consistency in metals can unify a space, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. Let your room reflect harmony rather than disarray.

22. Printed Upholstery

Printed upholstery can overwhelm when not balanced correctly. Its patterns may clash with other elements, creating a disjointed design.

Consider solid or subtly patterned fabrics that blend with existing decor. They offer versatility, allowing for accent pieces to shine without competition. Upholstery should complement, not compete, within a room’s aesthetic.

23. Cliché Wall Decals

Wall decals can quickly turn from trendy to tacky. Cliché quotes or overused designs often clutter rather than complement a space.

Opt for minimalistic or personalized art that adds value and style. A thoughtful piece can enhance a room’s atmosphere, making it feel curated and personal. Choose decor that speaks uniquely to you.

24. Excessive Throw Pillows

Throw pillows can add comfort, but in excess, they overwhelm. A couch buried under pillows leaves little room for relaxation, turning coziness into chaos.

Select a balanced number that enhances without obstructing. Thoughtfully arranged pillows can accentuate style without sacrificing function. Comfort should coexist with design, not be buried beneath it.