Is anyone’s home ever “done?” I can’t recall ever meeting someone who didn’t have a home improvement project in the works or in queue. Thanks to the good ole internet, we have an excessive amount of interior design inspiration and resources at our fingertips; giving us more power than ever to create our dream homes. However, the overload of interior ideas can sometimes become confusing to establish what is right for you, your home and your family. As interior designers, our job and goal is to design a cohesive, functional and beautiful home for our clients. Through the years we’ve seen and experienced a host of homeowner design mistakes, and today we’re here to help you learn through a less painful and costly lesson.
1. TRENDY “PERMANENT” DECISIONS
When you’re designing a space, whether it be a kitchen, bathroom or great room, make sure the “permanent” fixtures will stand the test of time and trends. In other words, make selections that you won’t be sick of looking at in a few years time or trend cycles for finishes such as flooring, cabinetry, countertops, and tile applications. Yes, these fixtures can technically be replaced, but it’s expensive and laborious to do so. By no means are we saying to make boring choices in your home. Take your time to reflect on which styles you’ve been drawn to for years instead of something you saw on Instagram right before your design meeting. Incorporate trendier items in accessories that are easily interchangeable such as throw pillows, shelf decor, wallpaper, light fixtures and artwork.
2. UNINSPIRED NEUTRALS
There is a difference between tonal and the triple B: boring beige bomb that yells “BLAH!” when it detonates. Let me tell you, I (Katie), personally gravitate toward neutral spaces. They are calming and long lasting against trends. The trick is incorporating layers, texture and variation. Add depth and interest to walls using a feature such as board and batten, grid or vertical paneling (modern paneling, skip the 70s-era plywood). In the bedroom from our Moody Monochromatic Modern project, the statement-making, sky high white headboard restrains the stunning black agate wallpaper from being too overpowering. A variety of textures were thoughtfully curated in this dreamy bedroom – a custom bench cushion, multiple custom-designed pillows, a super soft faux fur throw blanket, wood side tables, an upholstered headboard, gold and black finishes in lighting and accessories, and leather on the bench. This room may have a monochromatic, neutral palette, but it is packed with interesting layers and textures. We love how these neutral colors and patterns all came together to make this master bedroom elegant and sophisticated.
3. UNREALISTIC BUDGET + TIMELINE
Trust us, we are as obsessed with home improvement TV shows as much as the next person. The issue with those shows is the unrealistic expectations they create for homeowners. Real-life clients don’t have a professional renovation dream team completing a full main level remodel in six weeks for a fraction of the cost. Renovations take time and money. If you want your open concept kitchen, dining and living rooms renovated before Christmas, don’t begin in October. The typical renovation process takes at least six months, so the earlier you begin your project, the better! Set yourself up for success by working with qualified tradespeople who can provide you with realistic budgets and timelines for your project needs. Working with an interior designer first allows you to have a complete and cohesive design plan BEFORE the construction begins. You do not want to get a call from your contractor saying that he needs your tile selection tomorrow and not be prepared. Like any dreams and goals, the best results happen when you know what you want and have a plan and specifics on what your dream looks like. Don’t make rushed decisions along the way!
4. CHEAP vs. INEXPENSIVE
Cheap products aren’t built to last, they’re built for mass production. A sofa from a big box store may cost less, but the upholstery, frame and cushion construction won’t hold up to regular use compared to a custom sofa constructed with hardwoods, down cushions, and high performance fabric. On the other hand, inexpensive products can be well made alternatives to more luxury products. For example, instead of opting for a real marble floor tile in your master bathroom, select a porcelain tile with a look-alike marble design. This is one of the most common homeowner design mistakes we see. Our job is to help clients determine the best places to invest their money and find opportunities to save. We have extensive knowledge in products, materials and vendors, therefore, we understand a product’s quality and durability to guide you to make appropriate selections for your home and family.
5. LIFESTYLE DISCONNECT
We hope you have learned by now that marble surfaces require extra care and are more susceptible to stains and etching. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance solid surface, marble may not be the right choice for you. Opt for quartz, granite, or soapstone. If you’re renovating or redecorating a space, think about your daily life and how you can improve each day with new furniture or finish solutions. Don’t base selections solely on looks or trends. The furnishing industry has exploded recently with “life-friendly” fabrics, and our resources have become much more abundant. We can find great solutions to hold up to pets and kids or messy hobbies. If you need help, we’re here for you to help make these decisions and educate you on various products.
BONUS TIP: HIRE AN INTERIOR DESIGNER
Last year we wrote a whole blog post about why it’s important to hire an interior designer. In short: we’re educated and know what we’re doing. We can help you make decisions through a fresh perspective to make your home cohesive. And last, we have access to the secret world of to-the-trade products to create a custom, well-made look that will be uniquely suited to you and your family.
We hope this was a helpful post to get your mind working before taking on the next home improvement project on your list. Our team at Interior Impressions is here to help avoid homeowner design mistakes. Give our showroom a call Monday-Friday at 651.337.2184.
Cheers to the weekend,
Interior Impressions Team
You can also contact us here if you need professional help to make your home improvement dreams come true:
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