Are You Making These 5 Common Home Styling Mistakes? Here’s How to Fix Them

Your home is a reflection of your personality—but even the most design-savvy homeowners can fall into some common styling traps. The good news? These mistakes are totally fixable. Whether you're refreshing a rental or styling your dream home, here’s how to avoid the five biggest décor blunders that may be throwing off your space.

❌ 1. Pushing All Furniture Against the Walls

Why it’s a mistake:
Many assume that putting furniture against the wall makes a room look larger, but it can actually make the space feel cold and disconnected.

Fix it:
Float your furniture! Create a cozy conversation zone by pulling sofas and chairs inward and anchoring the setup with a rug. Take inspiration from expert layouts on Studio McGee’s Living Room Guide.

❌ 2. Overlooking Lighting Layers

Why it’s a mistake:
A single overhead light isn’t enough. It creates harsh shadows and doesn’t allow you to control mood or focus.

Fix it:
Use a mix of ambient (ceiling), task (lamps), and accent (sconces or LED strips) lighting. Explore modern, minimalist lighting options from DesignLab.

❌ 3. Ignoring Scale and Proportion

Why it’s a mistake:
A tiny rug under a large sectional or a bulky coffee table in a small room throws everything off balance.

Fix it:
Measure before you buy! Use painter’s tape to outline furniture on the floor before purchase. Check out The Citizenry’s Rug Size Guide for perfectly scaled suggestions.

❌ 4. Matching Everything Too Perfectly

Why it’s a mistake:
When everything matches—cushions, curtains, furniture—it can make your home feel like a catalog, not a lived-in space.

Fix it:
Mix textures and tones. Combine wood, metal, linen, and soft rugs to add visual interest. Try pairing neutrals with statement pieces from Anthropologie Home.

❌ 5. Forgetting Personal Touches

Why it’s a mistake:
A home should tell your story. Empty walls and generic art can make it feel like you’re living in someone else’s space.

Fix it:
Add framed photos, travel souvenirs, vintage finds, or local artisan pieces. Shop unique, handcrafted decor at Etsy Home & Living.

✅ Final Thought: Design with Intention

Mistakes happen—but styling your home is a journey, not a checklist. Stay flexible, play with layouts, and most importantly, create a space that feels uniquely you.