- As an interior designer, I've seen things that look incredible but can be frustrating to live with.
- Intricate light fixtures, open shelving, and velvet furniture can be difficult to upkeep.
- I like complex tile patterns, but they can be a pain to keep clean.
As an interior designer, I love creating spaces that are visually stunning.
However, I've learned that not everything that looks great on Pinterest or in a magazine translates well into real life. Some stylish pieces and designs can quickly become a headache when it comes to everyday living.
In the end, it's all about finding the balance between what looks good and what works. By prioritizing both form and function, it's possible. to avoid common design regrets and create a home that's as practical as it is beautiful.
That said, here are five things I think can look fabulous but are so impractical I wouldn't put them in my own home.
Ornate light fixtures can be a nightmare to clean.
I once fell in love with a chandelier full of tiny crystals that sparkled beautifully in the showroom. However, after installing a similar one in a client's home, I realized what a dust magnet it was.
Maintaining its pristine appearance required constant cleaning, which quickly made it more of a hassle than a source of joy.
If you're set on a statement light fixture, consider one that's easier to clean but still offers that wow factor. Trust me, your future self will thank you.
High-maintenance furniture is rarely worth it.
White sofas and velvet chairs look like the epitome of luxury, but in reality, they can be a nightmare to maintain — especially if you have kids or pets.
I've seen many clients regretting these choices as they tried to keep up with the inevitable stains and wear.
Opting for performance fabrics or darker hues can give you the elegance you crave without the stress of constant upkeep.
Open shelving isn't practical for a kitchen.
Open shelving looks great in styled photos and 3D renderings, but in practice, it's tough to keep them looking tidy.
After incorporating them into a few projects, I realized they require a level of organization that most people don't have time for daily.
If you really like this look, consider using a mix of open shelves and closed cabinets. This way, you can display a few pretty items while keeping the less attractive necessities out of sight.
Complex tile patterns can be a nightmare to scrub.
I've always admired intricate tile work, but after living with it, I wouldn't recommend it. I've learned that the more complex the pattern, the harder it can be to keep clean.
Grout lines in detailed designs are particularly prone to staining, turning what should be a showstopping feature into a maintenance nightmare.
If you're drawn to unique tiles, consider using them in smaller areas where they'll make an impact without overwhelming your cleaning routine.
Oversized furniture doesn't belong in small spaces.
Big furniture can make a large space feel cozy, but sizable pieces can easily overwhelm a small room.
I've seen clients choose oversized sofas or tables for a small area only to find that they dominate the room, leaving little space for anything else.
When furnishing a smaller space, choose pieces that fit the scale of the room and offer flexibility, like a modular sofa or a compact dining set.
