Debunking 8 Interior Design Myths

With the endless stream of tips and suggestions, tackling a home makeover can be intimidating. From outdated ideas passed down through generations to modern design trends, navigating the world of interior design can be tricky. So we’re here to clarify things by debunking common design myths and misconceptions, ensuring your next home revamp is a success.

Myth 1: Dark colours make spaces look smaller.

Many people shy away from dark colours, believing they’ll make a room feel cramped. However, dark tones can create a sense of depth and sophistication, making a space feel more expansive than you might think. Although lighter wall colours can make a space feel brighter, they can also emphasize dark shadows. So, opting for darker shades shouldn’t be ruled out right away. 

The key to decorating dark walls is balancing with lighter furnishings and strategic lighting. Striking colour contrasts can define different areas within a space, draw attention to focal points, and evoke warmth and serenity.

Myth 2: Furnishings must match.

Gone are the days when perfectly matching furniture sets were the gold standard. Eclectic interiors are celebrated for their uniqueness and create spaces that feel layered and lived-in.  Pick out furniture items and individual decor ideas you love, by doing so, slowly you’ll build an interior style. Mixing these diverse elements often creates a more interesting and lively home that feels more personable.

Myth 3: Ceilings must be painted white.

Your ceiling or “fifth wall” as we like to call it, often gets overlooked. Painting your ceiling in white is the traditional choice. However, painting your ceiling in a colour that compliments your other walls can dramatically alter the atmosphere of a room. In some cases, a darker ceiling can add a sense of intimacy or drama and draw the eye upwards. On the other hand, a soft pastel can brighten a space and give it an airy feel.

Myth 4: One overhead light is enough for a room.

While one key light source may illuminate a room sufficiently, relying solely on an overhead light can result in harsh shadows and uneven lighting. A well-designed lighting plan involves a layering of various light sources like table lamps, floor lamps, and scones. This combination enhances functionality, creates ambiance, and highlights architectural features.

Myth 5: You can only use one tone of wood.

Many believe mixing different wood tones is a recipe for disaster. However, some experts suggest varying wood finishes can help balance tone and add visual interest. Create a timeless space by incorporating vintage furniture pieces with different finishes. It’s unlikely you’ll find pieces that perfectly match your wood flooring so you’re better off going eclectic to open your mind to a wide range of furniture.

Myth 6: Bigger furniture makes a room feel smaller.

Although you’ve got to consider proportion and what will fit in your space, a key piece of furniture is often more beneficial than lots of small furnishings. A large sofa can make a space feel more open because it gives the eye a focal point, making the room feel grander. The trick is to balance larger furniture with minimal accessories and an open layout to avoid feeling cluttered.

Myth 7: You can’t have a white sofa when you have pets or children.

While white or lightly coloured furniture may seem impractical for families with pets or kids, advances in fabric technology, like stain-resistant fabrics and slipcovers, make it a viable option. Of course, some materials and colour choices are easier to hide any mishaps but don’t feel like you need to compromise on your interior style on this one.  

Myth 8: You must decorate a big blank wall.

If you see a big empty wall in your space, your initial thoughts are how to decorate it. However, experts suggest not stressing over how to fill it. While some areas may need a little decoration, negative space can be just as impactful. Instead of opting for a full gallery wall, try keeping the decor simple with one or two pieces of artwork. Alternatively, look into drenching the wall with a pop of colour and avoiding extra decor.