Think Twice: 7 Design Tips Designers Want You to Ignore This Year

Understanding the Design Landscape: Trends to Avoid

The world of interior design is evolving faster than ever, especially with social media's influence on personal aesthetics and DIY culture. However, not every style promoted online is suitable for your home. Designers are urging us to reconsider certain popular trends that have overstayed their welcome and could do more harm than good in creating cozy and maintainable living spaces.

Are All-White Farmhouse Styles Outdated?

The all-white farmhouse has long been hailed as the quintessential ideal for modern homes, but industry experts posit that this trend is losing its charm. While it initially brought a touch of rustic elegance, interior designer Kathy Kuo advocates for a more personal touch. “It’s easy to create a beautiful scene for a social post; it’s harder to create a nuanced, personal, and unique interior design,” she points out. Homeowners might find that stepping away from the starkness of all-white spaces can lead to warmer, more inviting areas instead.

The Color-Drenching Dilemma

Color-drenching—immersing a room in one bold hue—has been celebrated as an exciting new design technique. However, Erin Sullivan, a senior product design manager, cautions against its careless application. She warns that color-drenching can overwhelm smaller spaces, particularly bathrooms devoid of natural light. “While it can create a bold statement, the wrong room choice can lead to a clinical feel, rather than evoking warmth and personality,” Sullivan explains. Choose your rooms wisely to avoid an excess of monotony and to maintain a welcoming atmosphere.

The Safety Concerns of Heavy Renovation

Many trending DIY projects may tempt homeowners to embark on extensive renovations, fueled by charismatic creators tearing down walls and demolishing kitchens for social media glamor. Allisa Jacobs, an experienced interior designer, stresses the importance of caution. “Many DIYers are unaware of safety concerns, such as breathing in toxic dust, and may underestimate the risks involved in construction that may not even pass building codes,” she warns. This call for careful consideration is vital for maintaining both one’s safety and the home's integrity.

Counterproductive Trends: Remaining Relevant

As homeowners seek to incorporate trends that reflect their individuality, it’s essential to recognize when a trend has become stagnant or harmful. Interior design should, above all, celebrate personal stories and preferences. Homeowners are encouraged to find inspiration in spaces that make them feel truly at home rather than chasing viral trends that may not suit their actual lifestyles.

Less Is More: Embracing Simplicity

In a world filled with ever-changing trends, embracing simplicity can sometimes be the best approach. Rather than layering a space with fleeting fads, homeowners should focus on elements that resonate on a personal level. This approach encourages a design that evolves with the individual rather than being bound by the latest internet craze. Investing in quality pieces and designs that feel true to oneself not only enhances a home’s comfort but also creates a timeless space that will endure.

Walk Away from Over-Hyped Designs

In the quest for beautiful interiors, it’s important to filter out noise from trends that are merely over-hyped designs. Many popular styles lose their effect with overuse, and designers agree that the key to a striking space lies not just in following what’s currently trending but in curating a home that reflects authenticity and personal expression. Rethinking what design means to oneself is essential for fostering genuine connection within a living space.