6 Worst Mistakes Interior Decorators Can Make

When it comes to being an interior decorator, there are many things that can go wrong on a project. Luckily, you’re likely trained in how to properly plan and design each room to make it the most livable you can. Still, there are a few areas where every interior decorator can slip up. Read on for the top 6 mistakes any interior decorator can make – even experienced professionals!

1. Ignore your clients

Hands down the worst mistake you can make when working on a client’s home is ignoring what they want. We know you don’t want to include their unappealing centerpiece, but they might have a strong sentimental attachment to their décor. When you’re going through the home and planning changes, you should be doing so with the client by your side. Unless they let you run free with it, you should have a solid list of what your client wants – whether it be colors, décor, furniture, and more!

2. Leave no space

One of the most annoying things to deal with in a home is clutter, and although you know to stay well away from a cluttered design, sometimes a lack of space makes it seem less so! Having awkwardly placed furniture that juts out into the doorway is a big no-no. This will lead to knocked knees and plenty of frustration for your client! As well, try to stay away from odd furniture and table shapes unless they fit perfectly in the room you’re designing. We all love a touch of contemporary décor, but it can easily be overwhelming if it doesn’t match the rest of the home!

3. Make it impractical

That gorgeous layered coffee table seemed like a good idea at the time…but when it comes down to it, it’s downright annoying! If you have a piece of furniture that’s meant to add space or storage for your clients, make sure it’s easily accessible. Having well-oiled hinges and cabinet doors will make the world of a difference for your clients. If they can’t get into a drawer, how are they meant to use it?

4. Attack the senses

Colors and scents galore! Unless your client specifically asks for you to enthral the room with bright colors and heavy scent boosters, make sure you use these in moderation. For example, pairing bright colors with a neutral palette will create gorgeous accents that bring the room to life. If you have too many or too much of a bright color, your clients will need sunglasses every time they sit in the living room! As for scents, a small oil dispenser or a couple of light candles as a centerpiece will do. As long as your client keeps their home clean, you shouldn’t have to mask any horrible smells in your room designs!

5. Forget the ceiling

Having a stark white ceiling can take the ambiance out of a room – fast! Although we know it can be difficult to paint the ceiling, or remove popcorn texture, it’s worth a shot. The ceiling brings your client’s attention upwards and can make the room feel bigger (or smaller!). Incorporate the ceiling into your color scheme to keep your room feeling proportionate and up-to-date.

6. Create it for yourself

As an interior decorator, you have great taste. But there’s a line to be drawn when it comes to using your trendy personality and matching your client’s vision. Of course, your client came to you because they know you’ll create a stunning design – but it all goes back to giving them what they want! If you don’t listen to your client, you could end up creating a gorgeous design that they hate! And having to redo a perfectly decorated room is not a good feeling…

Don’t miss the top 10 home staging sins that every home decorator should avoid!