The way you furnish and decorate a room is critical to its overall neatness. Going overboard can result in a cluttered look, causing your space to look untidy regardless of your best efforts. You’ll find it easier to maintain order and achieve a polished look by steering clear of these common décor mistakes that look messy.
Too Much Open Storage
When decorating a bookcase or built-in shelves, it isn’t necessary to pack every inch of space with books and accessories. Leave some open space between items so that it doesn’t appear overcrowded and stuffed. Stack a few books on their side with the bind facing out and put a small tchotchke on the top to create visual interest and balance. Avoid having electronics and cables on display if you can help it. Stash away items such as games, movies, and toys. Use closed cabinets, decorative boxes, or baskets to create a tidy look that offers a more convenient clean-up.
Too Many Accent Pillows
Having too many pillows and patterns will make the space feel cluttered. Excess pillows also prevent guests from wanting to sit down because they are uncomfortable and feel awkward moving them. There should be two or three accent pillows on each end of the sofa. If you have several pillows that you love, rotate them seasonally.
Furniture Against Walls
Arranging your furniture against the walls can make the space disorganized. Opt for smaller pieces and arrange them toward the center of the room. Having one large piece against a wall is acceptable and should be the balance point for the rest of the room. Arrange the smaller pieces around the most prominent piece. Use an area rug to ground the arrangement and tie it all together.
Too Much Décor on Tables
Sofa tables and side tables can quickly get cluttered. First, only display what you love on decorative tables and remove the rest. Then decorate the table with one or two groupings of items in a collection of odd numbers. Elevate small things on a stack of two or three books to create a purposeful look. If the table is functional like an entryway piece, use a small dish or basket to store car keys, sunglasses, etc.
Furniture stores, retail shops, and magazines display all of their pillows, accessories, and trinkets because they try to sell them, not because they are functional designs. Remember that form follows function. If you cannot sit down or use other pieces of furniture for what it is intended, then your form has no function. It is almost impossible to relax and enjoy your space if too much clutter surrounds you.
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