March 11th 2024.
When it comes to interior design, some people just have a natural eye for it. But even for those without that innate talent, there are a few common mistakes that can really cheapen the look of your home. Thankfully, these mistakes are easily avoidable or can be fixed with a little DIY magic. Interior decorator Julie Sousa has seen these mistakes time and time again, and she's here to share her top five "decor no nos" with us. Her video on TikTok has already reached over 500,000 views, with many people agreeing with her expert tips. So, without further ado, let's dive into Julie's top five decor mistakes.
First on the list are faux trees. While they may seem like a convenient and low-maintenance option, faux trees with large plastic leaves can scream "plastic" and cheapen the overall look of a room. Julie recommends opting for faux trees with smaller, more realistic-looking foliage made from materials like silk or paper. Of course, real plants are always the best option, but for those areas where real plants may not be possible, faux trees with smaller foliage are the way to go.
Next up, unframed art. Julie cautions against hanging unframed canvases, as they can give off a cheap vibe due to their lower cost. However, she offers a solution for those who want to achieve an expensive look for less – DIY the frame! Alternatively, you can also buy mass-produced art and paint over it for a personalized touch. While some people in the comments disagreed with this tip, Julie reminds us that everyone has their own preferences and that's what makes the world interesting.
Another common mistake is using words and signage as decor in the home. Julie believes that good design should spark imagination and make you wonder, whereas words and labels can be distracting and take away from the overall aesthetic. This includes the infamous "live, love, laugh" quotes that are often found in homes. TikTok user Amber Ray shared her dislike for these types of homes, and Julie agreed that sentimental items are always a plus.
Moving on to the bathroom, Julie advises against using small rugs or mats around the toilet. Not only can they look cheap, but having multiple rugs in a room can also make it feel cluttered. Instead, opt for one larger rug to make the space feel more expensive. Julie also notes that using gold furniture can have a similar effect – while it may seem luxurious, it can come off as fake and cheap. She suggests leaning towards gold pieces with an orange undertone for a more realistic look.
But why does it matter if your home looks expensive or not? Well, if you're planning on selling your home, it could make a significant difference in the asking price. Real estate agent Jennifer Spinelli says that a dated kitchen could decrease a home's potential selling price by up to 30%. So, it's essential to invest in updates like new appliances, cabinets, and countertops if you want to get the full asking price. Similarly, having good "kerb appeal," or how attractive a property is from the street, can also impact the value of a home. Simple changes like a colorful front door or well-maintained landscaping can make a big difference.
Finally, an old-fashioned bathroom can also turn off potential buyers and decrease the value of a home. Outdated fixtures, cracked tiles, and poor ventilation can all contribute to this. While it may not have as big of an impact as a dated kitchen, it's still something to consider when selling a home.
We hope these tips from Julie Sousa have given you some insight into common decor mistakes and how to avoid them. Remember, creating a beautiful and expensive-looking home doesn't have to break the bank – with a little creativity and some DIY skills, you can achieve the luxurious aesthetic you desire. And if you're looking to sell your home, don't overlook the importance of a modern kitchen and good "kerb appeal." Happy decorating!
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