Designers see it all, from homeowners who just need a little decorating guidance to others who require major help. We can learn a lot from the latter, especially what not to do. What are the biggest decorating don’ts? Here’s what HGTV design pros say:
Don’t match everything. It’s as if everything came from the same store at the same time. There’s no personality or individual expression in a room like that.
Do mix. Taking a room that has a neutral color palette and adding items from your travels, family pieces and unusual finds is a really simple way to make that room more interesting.
Don’t hang small things on big walls. It’s like an evening gown with only one rhinestone!
Do design with scale in mind. Just make sure the gown fits the girl.
Don’t create precious spaces. Who wants to live in a space that is so precious that no human behavior is allowed?
Do make rooms livable. Make them as beautiful and exquisite as you want, but make them livable.
Don’t display everything. The best way to edit may be a mix of 50 percent emotional and 50 percent rational/practical.
Do edit and rotate your stuff. That way you have a new environment as often as you wish and you will fall in love with some of your belongings once again.
Don’t make it all about the TV. Think about views from the room, and don’t forget the fireplace.
Do create seating areas. Living vignettes within a room take advantage of the room’s architecture.
Don’t work in a sterile home office. It shouldn’t be chilled, like a lab.
Do design a cozy work space. A redesigned office should end up feeling sophisticated yet relaxed while oozing with style and class.
Leslie Judson, hgtv.com
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