Interior Design

7 Things That Make Designers Cringe When They Walk Into Someone’s Home

5. Outdated Window Treatments Designers often notice when window treatments…

Robin - September 3, 2025 0

5. Outdated Window Treatments

7 Things That Make Designers Cringe When They Walk Into Someone’s Home
Modern interiors feature sheer panels or sleek roller blinds, maximizing natural light and contemporary appeal.

Designers often notice when window treatments haven’t kept pace with contemporary trends. Heavy drapes, fussy valances, and vertical blinds can make a space appear dark, dated, and disconnected from modern aesthetics. These choices also tend to block precious natural light, making rooms feel smaller and less inviting.

Today’s designers favor lighter options such as sheer panels, Roman shades, or streamlined roller blinds, which provide privacy without sacrificing brightness or style. For inspiration and guidance on choosing the right window treatments, explore House Beautiful’s expert window treatment guide to refresh and modernize your space.

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6. Ignoring Scale and Proportion

7 Things That Make Designers Cringe When They Walk Into Someone’s Home
A spacious room features oversized sofas and chairs, contrasted by a single piece of tiny wall art for a playful balance. | Generated by Google Gemini

One of the most common mistakes that instantly stands out to designers is a disregard for scale and proportion. Furniture or decor that’s too large can overwhelm a room—imagine an oversized sectional crammed into a modest living area. Conversely, pieces that are too small, like tiny art hung on a vast wall, make a space feel unfinished and awkward.

Achieving visual harmony means choosing items that suit both the size and function of the room. For more tips on mastering scale, check out Elle Decor’s expert advice on proportion to create a balanced, comfortable home.

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7. Neglected Entryways

7 Things That Make Designers Cringe When They Walk Into Someone’s Home
A cozy entryway filled with shoes, coats, and bags creates a lived-in, welcoming vibe in this busy foyer. | Generated by Google Gemini

The entryway sets the tone for the entire home, yet it’s often overlooked or treated as an afterthought. A cluttered, bare, or purely utilitarian entry can make a space feel unwelcoming and disorganized, leaving a poor first impression on guests.

Designers recommend transforming this transitional space by incorporating thoughtful touches—such as a stylish mirror, artwork, or a console table with functional storage for keys and shoes. Even a small rug or a vase of fresh flowers can instantly elevate the area. For creative ideas and expert tips, explore Real Simple’s guide to entryway design and craft a more inviting introduction to your home.

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Conclusion

7 Things That Make Designers Cringe When They Walk Into Someone’s Home
Thoughtful updates and mindful design choices create a harmonious, stylish, and welcoming home environment.

By steering clear of these common design pitfalls, anyone can transform their home into a space that’s both stylish and welcoming. Thoughtful choices and a willingness to update outdated elements go a long way toward creating harmony and comfort. Even small adjustments—like refreshing window treatments or decluttering surfaces—can have a major impact. For more expert advice and inspiration, explore resources like Architectural Digest and start making your home reflect your best self.

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Robin

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