Buying too many small accessories
Forgoing trendy accessories for a year or two could save you enough money to buy a substantial piece of furniture you`ll have forever.
Hanging artwork too high
The bottom of the artwork should be eight to 10 inches above the top of a piece of furniture, be it a headboard, sofa or credenza. In a hallway or stairwell, hang art so that the middle of the work is 66 inches from the floor or steps.
Displaying collectibles all over the house
Create big impact by grouping a collection of figurines on a table, or samplers or family photos on one wall. Dotting them all around the house only lends a cluttered look to your decor.
Creating a lifeless interior
A room needs fresh plants or flowers, whether it`s trees, tulips or cacti. Using silk or artificial greenery is fine, but only if you rotate it and make it seasonal. Dusty, outdated looking floral arrangements make a room appear old and in need of change.
Collecting too much stuff
We hoard, collect and often have too many things that don`t belong, so learning to edit a room is a huge lesson. The easiest way to do it is to dress a room completely and then take away 30 percent of the accessories, such as candles, picture frames and knickknacks. That will leave room to add items as the decor develops over time.
Hanging oversize family portraits in main living spaces
Save all those large framed wedding, school and family photographs for the upstairs hallway, home office and den.
Bad Lampshades
Nothing can bring a room down faster than a 30 year old dingy lampshade. For under $30 you can update a whole room.
Don`t rush decorating decisions
Too quickly without exploring all of the possibilities. It is always better to take your time. Go to a store you`ve never been to before. Look for the unexpected.
Accessories don`t relate or enhance the overall theme
Using objects that you don`t love
Why look at the vase you got as a wedding gift from Aunt Marry when you want to cringe every time you see it.
