A clean home helps you feel comfortable, but even neat cabinets can make a space feel messy if small details are ignored. Little things can change how a room looks and feels. Simple updates like arranging decor, choosing nice artwork, and organizing cables can make a big difference. Messy cords and mismatched items can make your home feel chaotic, even if it’s tidy. To help you improve your space, we’ve shared some do’s and don’ts, along with pictures of beautiful rooms. By making these small changes, you can create a cozy and inviting home. It’s all in the details!
Using Too Many Accent Pillows
Accent pillows add color and style to your room, but too many can make it look messy. Instead of using lots of pillows, pick a few that stand out. Choose ones that match your colors and add nice textures. Focusing on quality over quantity will make your space feel more inviting. A small number of well-chosen pillows can improve your decor a lot. This keeps your room organized and stylish. Remember, fewer pillows can still look great. Aim for a simple setup that shows your style while keeping things balanced.
Forgetting to Maximize Natural Light
Too much low lighting can make your home feel dark and cramped, which isn’t very inviting. When there isn’t enough light, it’s tough to see how big the room really is, and that can make it feel dull. To brighten things up, take advantage of natural light by opening your curtains and blinds during the day. If you have rooms that don’t get much sunlight, try using light colors for your furniture to help reflect whatever light is available. Adding lamps and overhead lights can really help brighten up the space, too. Mirrors are great for bouncing light around, making the room feel lighter and more open. Good lighting can transform your home, making it feel more welcoming and spacious. A bright room not only looks nicer but also creates a better atmosphere for you and your guests.
Hanging Short Curtains or Drapes
Curtains and drapes can really improve your home by adding style and serving practical needs. They help make a room look nice while giving you privacy and controlling light. If your curtains are too short, though, they can make the room feel smaller and look awkward. It’s important to pick curtains that fit the length of your walls. Most homes have standard window sizes, so you can find ready-made curtains easily. When curtains are long enough, they can make your ceilings seem higher and the room feel more spacious. Plus, well-hung curtains add a nice touch to your decor. Taking time to choose the right curtains can really change how your home looks.
Overstuffing a Room
Furniture plays a big role in how a room feels. If it’s too large, the room feels cramped, but the right size makes everything look balanced. It’s important to pick pieces that fit the space and work well together. Not all furniture needs to be against the walls—letting some pieces “float” helps the room feel open and easy to move through. A sofa in the middle or chairs at an angle can also create cozy areas. When furniture isn’t pushed to the walls, the room feels less boxed in. This setup works well in modern spaces where flexibility is important. With the right size and placement, furniture can make any room both comfy and stylish.
Not Considering Your Textiles
Textiles play a key role in making a space feel cozy and polished. Slipcovers that don’t fit properly can make the room look untidy, so it’s important to use ones that fit well. Throw blankets should be neatly folded and smoothed out to avoid a cluttered appearance. Throw pillows also need attention—fluff them regularly to keep them looking fresh and inviting. Thoughtful care with these details helps create a well-organized and welcoming space. For expert tips, Phoebe Howard’s guide on arranging sofa pillows is a great resource. With the right touch, textiles can enhance both comfort and style in any room.
Neglecting the Entry
The entryway is the first thing guests see, so it should feel welcoming and useful while showing your home’s style. It helps if it’s both pretty and practical. Bunny Williams shares a tip from her mother, who used a red Oriental rug at the front door to match the red clay dirt in Virginia. This way, the dirt blended in and didn’t show as much. Picking a rug that fits your environment can keep things looking clean and cozy. A good rug not only protects the floor but also makes the space feel warm. Little touches like this help guests feel at home right away.
Ignoring TVs and Other Technology
Tech cables, cords, and plugs can make your home look messy, even though we need them every day. Luckily, there are ways to hide them. One good idea is to put the TV in an armoire to keep it out of sight when you’re not using it. You can also create a gallery wall around the TV with art and photos, which makes it less noticeable. This way, the TV doesn’t feel like a dark spot in the room. With some creativity, you can keep your space looking neat and organized. Small changes like these can make your home feel more inviting. Finding easy ways to deal with cords helps you enjoy your tech without the clutter.
Skimping on Rug Size
A good-sized rug can really make a room look nicer and sometimes even bigger. While smaller rugs cost less, spending a little more on a larger one, like 8×10 or 9×12, can be a smart idea. A bigger rug helps tie the room together and makes it feel warmer. When furniture sits on the rug, it looks more organized. This helps the space feel more inviting. Choosing the right rug can save you money in the long run because you won’t need to buy a bunch of smaller ones. With a nice rug and smart furniture placement, your room will feel clean and welcoming. In the end, the right rug can change how a room looks and feels.
Not Choosing Wall Decor Wisely
A gallery wall is a fun way to add color to a room. First, measure your wall. Then, decide where to hang your art and photos. Arrange them neatly so it doesn’t look messy. Use different frame sizes and styles for variety, but keep the colors balanced. You can try laying everything on the floor first to see how it looks. When you’re ready, hang your pieces straight. A good gallery wall shows off your favorite art and makes your room look nice!
