JidarInterior DesignCurtainsCarpetWallpaper Design
Interior Design

7 Common Interior Design Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Jidar Team

|

Author

Updated
May 9, 2025
schedule 7 Min

 

Interior design plays a powerful role in how we experience our spaces. From comfort and functionality to style and atmosphere, thoughtful design can transform an ordinary room into a welcoming sanctuary. However, even well-intentioned plans can fall short due to common design missteps. At Jidar, we believe that a well-designed space starts with avoiding the most frequent mistakes. Here’s a guide to the seven most common interior design mistakes and how to avoid them.

 

1. Ignoring Scale and Proportion

One of the most noticeable mistakes in interior design is choosing furniture or decor items that are either too large or too small for the space. Oversized sofas in a compact room or tiny wall art on a vast wall can make the room feel off-balance.

 

How to avoid it:

Always measure your space before buying furniture. Use painter’s tape to outline the furniture on the floor to visualize the fit. Choose pieces that complement the scale of your room and maintain balanced proportions between furniture, decor, and empty space.

 

2. Poor Lighting Choices

Lighting can make or break the ambiance of a room. Relying solely on overhead lighting often leads to a flat and uninviting space.

 

 

How to avoid it:

Layer your lighting with a mix of ambient (ceiling lights), task (desk or pendant lighting), and accent lighting (wall sconces or floor lamps). Use dimmers to control intensity, and always consider natural light sources when planning layouts.

 

3. Choosing Paint Colors Too Early

Many homeowners pick paint colors first, only to find that they clash with their furniture or flooring.

 

 

How to avoid it:

Choose paint colors last. After you select your furniture, rugs, and other key elements, test several paint samples on the walls at different times of the day to see how they react to light. Then, make your final decision.

 

4. Over-cluttering the Space

Decorative accessories can add personality, but too many can create visual chaos. A cluttered room feels smaller and less comfortable.

 

 

How to avoid it:

Embrace minimalism. Choose a few statement pieces and keep surfaces clean. Use smart storage solutions like shelves, baskets, and built-in cabinetry to keep the space organized.

 

5. Lack of Cohesion

A mismatch of styles, colors, or materials can make a space feel disjointed. While eclectic styles can be beautiful, they require careful balance.

 

How to avoid it:

Choose a unifying theme, whether it’s a color palette, design style, or material type. Repeat certain elements throughout the space to tie the design together. For example, use similar wood tones or metal finishes across rooms for cohesion.

 

6. Pushing All Furniture Against Walls

Many people assume placing all furniture against the walls will make the room feel larger. However, this often leads to awkward layouts and a lack of intimacy.

 

How to avoid it:

Create conversational groupings by pulling furniture away from the walls. Anchor the arrangement with a rug or a coffee table to define the space and encourage flow.

 

7. Neglecting Functionality for Style

Design should never come at the cost of usability. A stylish sofa that’s uncomfortable or an open-shelf kitchen with no storage space can quickly become frustrating.

 

How to avoid it:

Always prioritize how a space will be used. Select furniture and layouts that support your lifestyle. Consider traffic flow, storage needs, and comfort when making design choices.

 

Let Jidar Help You Get It Right We offer free personalized design consultations to bring your vision to life. From choosing the right wall-to-wall carpet to finding the perfect lighting layout, our team ensures that your space reflects your taste and works for your needs. Ready to transform your home or business? Contact Jidar today.

 

 

 

Can I mix different styles in my home?

Yes, but it requires balance. Use a cohesive color palette or material finish to unify the space.

What should I prioritize in a small space?

Focus on multi-functional furniture, vertical storage, and a light color palette to keep the area feeling open.

How many lighting sources should each room have?

Aim for at least three: ambient, task, and accent lighting.

How do I choose the right rug size?

Choose a rug that fits all furniture legs on top or at least the front legs. Avoid rugs that are too small for the layout.

We Operate In Dubai.

We look forward to working with you and creating a stunning home that you and your family will love for years to come!

+971