Home Design Watch-outs: Avoid These Common Design Challenges!

Welcome back to the blog! Today, I want to talk about some important design watch-outs to consider when planning your home renovation. I use the term "watch-outs" instead of "mistakes" because what might not work for one person could be exactly what someone else is looking for. These watch-outs are based on common design challenges I've seen over the years, and being mindful of them can help you create a home that’s both functional and stylish.

1. TV Units: Get the Proportions Right

A large flat-screen TV with a small TV unit can create an unbalanced look, making the TV seem overly imposing. To avoid this, choose a TV unit that extends 8-10 inches beyond the TV on each side. This will help balance the overall design, making the TV less of a focal point while giving you extra space for storage or décor.

2. Wall Beading: Stay Subtle

Beading is a popular trend that adds texture and depth to your walls. However, if you paint the beading a different colour from the wall, it can create too much visual detail. Instead, I recommend painting the beading the same colour as the wall for a more subtle, textured look.

Also, be sure to prime the beading before installation to save your painter time and hassle, and make sure it's properly acclimated to the room.

3. Open-Plan Spaces: Create Cohesion

Open-plan living is all the rage, but with three distinct areas (kitchen, dining, living), it’s important to create cohesion between them. Using the same flooring or paint color across the space is a great way to unify the design. You can introduce accents like rugs, stools, or cushions to tie the different areas together while keeping a consistent theme.

4. Dining Table Lighting: Get the Height Right

When hanging a light fixture over your dining table, the height is key. The bottom of the light should be 30-34 inches from the top of the table. This rule of thumb ensures the light is functional but not obstructive. Always have your electrician hold the fixture in place first so you can make sure the height feels right for your space.

5. Hallway Storage: Make It Functional

Hallways can easily become clutter zones. If built-in storage isn’t an option, consider slim, space-saving furniture like a narrow sideboard. You can customize the interior by adding more shelves for shoes, bags, or sports gear. This creates an organized entryway without sacrificing style or space.

Key Takeaways:

1. Balance TV units with a size that complements the TV, avoiding a top-heavy look.

2. Choose cohesive beading colours for subtle texture, and prep materials carefully.

3. Unify open-plan designs with consistent flooring and accents across living, dining, and kitchen areas.

4. Hang dining lights at the right height, ensuring they are functional without obstructing views.

5. Maximize hallway storage with space-saving furniture and customizable interiors.

By keeping these design watch-outs in mind, you’ll create a functional and beautiful home that fits your lifestyle.