Design Trends Interior Designers Regret: Insights from the Experts
Design trends can often feel like fleeting fads, leading to costly missteps for homeowners. Sometimes, investing in a trendy design can result in regret, especially when the changes are expensive or challenging to reverse. This is something interior designers regularly encounter, which is why they remain attuned to the current styles shaping the interior design landscape. Having tested various trends themselves, they have discovered that not all of them are worthwhile.
We reached out to several seasoned interior designers to find out which trends they wish they hadn’t pursued. Here are three regrettable design choices, straight from the experts.
Meet the Designers
- Maren Baker, Founder and Principal Designer of Maren Baker Design, based in Boise, Idaho.
- Julia Newman, Founder and Principal Designer of Julia Adele Design, a full-service interior design firm in Los Angeles, California.
- Lesley Myrick, CEO and Principal Designer of Lesley Myrick Interior Design, located in Atlanta, Georgia.
1. Accent Walls
Accent walls have been a popular topic in interior design. They can effectively create a focal point, adding an element of color and texture. However, when executed poorly, they can disrupt the room’s harmony.
Maren Baker learned this the hard way in her own home. "Before becoming a designer, I got caught up in the idea of accent walls," she shares. "I soon realized that an accent wall becomes meaningless when it’s just another flat wall in the space."
Rather than opting for a painted accent wall, she advises homeowners to embrace full-color or wallpaper designs that genuinely enrich the room’s aesthetics. Alternatively, consider implementing artwork that resonates with the space rather than relying on a single accent wall.
2. Leather Sofas
While leather furniture can look sophisticated, it may not always be the best choice for frequently used pieces like sofas. Julia Newman cautions against this choice, citing her own experience.
"The biggest design mistake I made was purchasing a leather sofa," she admits. Despite its eye-catching appearance, she quickly discovered it required more upkeep than she had anticipated. "In winter, it was freezing; in summer, it was sweltering. Ultimately, switching to fabric brought me peace of mind."
If you’re contemplating a leather sofa, think twice. Opting for fabric may provide a more practical and comfortable solution while still allowing for style.
3. Appliance Garages with Lift-Up Doors
Lesley Myrick discusses her complicated feelings about appliance garages, which are clever storage solutions designed to keep countertops tidy by hiding small appliances like mixers and blenders.
"I love the concept of the appliance garage, but I regret some construction choices I made," she admits. Myrick’s garage turned out shallower than expected due to structural constraints, and the trendy lift-up door style presents functional challenges.
"It swings up to eye level, obstructing my workflow while using the space," she adds. Instead, she recommends considering double pocket doors for a more functional option while keeping your kitchen aesthetically pleasing.
Conclusion
The world of interior design is ever-evolving, and it’s essential to be cautious when adopting new trends. The insights from these experienced designers highlight the importance of long-term functionality over fleeting aesthetics. Before making significant design changes, take a moment to reflect on how they will serve you in the long run.
For more inspiration and tips that can enhance your living space, check out our blog at ChatbiHouse. Explore ideas that range from practical kitchen designs to creative ways of incorporating art into your home décor. Whether you’re looking for timeless pieces or innovative solutions, there is something for everyone in our resources.
