Alright, let’s talk myths—those weird little ideas people pass around like family recipes, except they don’t make your home look fabulous. After years of working with clients, I’ve seen people cling to these outdated notions like a security blanket. But hey, it’s time to throw that blanket out! Let’s break these myths together, and I promise, your space will thank you for it. Ready? Let’s dive in!
Myth 1: Small Rooms Need Light Colors or They’ll Shrink You
This one’s a classic. The idea that your room will somehow close in on you if you paint it anything other than eggshell or beige? Nope. Dark colors can actually make a room feel cozy, like being wrapped in a stylish hug. It’s like wearing black—it’s slimming, it adds drama, and it looks so chic. So, go ahead, paint that accent wall navy blue or deep emerald green. You won’t regret it.
Myth 2: Everything Must Match, Or Else!
Ever walked into a room where everything matches perfectly? It feels… stiff, right? Like someone took a catalog and hit “copy-paste.” Where’s the fun in that? Mix it up! Grab that velvet couch, throw in a rattan chair, and mix textures and colors like you’re making a smoothie—variety is the secret ingredient. I always say, a room should feel like a well-travelled friend, not a furniture showroom.
Myth 3: You Have to Pick One Style and Stick With It
Choosing just one style is like going to an ice cream shop and only ordering vanilla—every time. Sure, vanilla is great, but don’t you ever wonder what pistachio or rocky road could do for your home? Mixing styles isn’t just allowed, it’s encouraged! That rustic wooden table? It can hang out with your sleek modern lighting. Trust me, they’ll get along.
Myth 4: Minimalism = Empty and Boring
Minimalism isn’t about living in a white box with a single chair in the middle of the room (unless that’s your vibe). It’s about cutting the clutter and letting your space breathe. When done right, it feels intentional, not empty. So yes, less is more, but less can still have personality. Think of it as choosing a few key pieces that make your room go, “Wow, look at me!”
Myth 5: Big Rooms Need Big Furniture (Or They’ll Look Lonely)
Just because your living room is the size of a small country doesn’t mean it needs furniture the size of a castle. Honestly, oversized furniture can feel like a bad relationship—overbearing and not at all what you need. Instead, use different sizes and scales to create balance. Trust me, your space will look more inviting and less like a furniture museum.
Myth 6: Art Should Always Hang at Eye Level (But Whose Eye?)
The rule about hanging art at eye level is all well and good, but let’s be real—everyone’s “eye level” is different. If we’re talking giraffes, their eye level is a bit higher than yours or mine. Instead, play with your art! Hang it in clusters, stack it, spread it out. There’s no wrong way if it makes you smile when you walk in.
Myth 7: Neutrals Are the Only Sophisticated Choice
If I had a dollar for every time someone told me they had to stick to neutrals to be “elegant,” I’d have a yacht by now. Don’t get me wrong, I love a good neutral, but color can be elegant too! A deep jewel tone can look just as refined as a soft beige. Plus, a pop of color can make your room feel alive, not like a waiting room.
Myth 8: Wallpaper is Too Bold for Small Spaces
Remember when wallpaper was considered the decorating equivalent of a tattoo? You were stuck with it forever. Well, times have changed! Small spaces can shine with wallpaper. A bold print can add personality and trick the eye into thinking the room is bigger. So yes, go ahead—be bold!
Myth 9: One Focal Point is Enough
Who made up this rule? Was it the same person who said you can’t eat dessert before dinner? The truth is, a room can have several focal points—like a great conversation. Maybe it’s a stunning chandelier, that cozy fireplace, or your art wall. Let your room be interesting from every angle!
Myth 10: Always Follow Trends (Or Be Doomed to Design Obscurity)
Ah, trends—the siren song of the design world. The truth is, trends come and go faster than fashion week, and what’s “in” today could be “so last year” tomorrow. Instead of following every trend, focus on pieces that feel timeless to you. That way, your home will always feel current, no matter what’s in vogue.
So there you have it—10 myths busted wide open. Design isn’t about following rules; it’s about making a space that feels like you. I’ve been guilty of believing some of these myths myself, but once I let go, my spaces (and my clients’!) really came to life.