Designers share a love for spaces that are both beautiful and functional. However, certain home features are known to make them cringe.
From outdated layouts to impractical designs, these quirks can disrupt the flow and aesthetics of a house.
Understanding what drives designers crazy can help you make better choices for your own living space.
1. Ceiling Fans with Low Ceilings
Ceiling fans in rooms with low ceilings can be impractical, creating a cramped feel. Designers suggest they compromise both aesthetics and safety.
Consider alternative cooling solutions like portable fans or air conditioners.
These options maintain comfort and style without the risk of crowding a space, keeping the decor light and airy.
2. Too Many Colors
A riot of colors can overwhelm a space, creating chaos rather than comfort. Designers often advise a more restrained palette.
Stick to three main colors to maintain harmony and cohesion in any room.
This strategy aids in creating a visually pleasing environment, allowing room for personal touches without overwhelming the senses.
3. Overly Open Floor Plans
While open floor plans are popular for their spacious feel, too much openness can pose problems. Designers argue that it can lead to issues with noise and lack of privacy.
Strategically using partitions or furniture can create defined zones without losing the open feel.
This approach helps balance openness with intimacy, offering both shared and private spaces for a well-rounded home experience.
4. Over-the-Top Themes
Themes can add interest, but going overboard can be a design disaster. Designers often frown upon excessively themed rooms as they can feel gimmicky and limit versatility.
Opt for subtlety instead. Incorporate themed elements without overwhelming the space.
This ensures your room can easily adapt to changing styles and personal tastes, enhancing long-term satisfaction.
5. Lavish Water Features
Water features like large ponds or waterfalls can be high maintenance and impractical. Designers often see them as more of a hassle than an aesthetic boon.
Instead, consider simpler water elements like a small fountain or birdbath.
These options offer tranquility and charm without the significant upkeep, fitting seamlessly into a garden or patio while providing a peaceful ambiance.
6. Carpeted Bathrooms
The idea of carpet in a bathroom baffles many designers. It harbors moisture and can lead to mold, turning the bathroom into a hygiene nightmare.
Tiles or water-resistant vinyl are much better options. They provide durability and are easy to clean, maintaining hygiene.
By choosing hard flooring surfaces, you not only improve the look but also the functionality of the bathroom, keeping it fresh and inviting.
7. Excessive Built-ins
Built-ins can add storage, but an overabundance can be restrictive. Designers warn that too many built-ins can limit flexibility and personal expression.
Limit them to key areas where storage is essential, allowing for free space.
This approach makes it easier to adapt the room layout and decor over time, meeting evolving needs and preferences.
8. Wall-to-Wall Carpets
Wall-to-wall carpets can feel dated and are often disliked by designers due to maintenance challenges. They can trap allergens and wear unevenly.
Opt for hardwood or laminate flooring with area rugs for comfort.
This not only simplifies cleaning but adds a modern touch, providing flexibility in style and functionality.
9. Vertical Blinds
Vertical blinds, popular in the past, are now often considered an eyesore. Designers find them cumbersome and less visually appealing.
Modern window treatments such as roller shades or curtains offer more elegance.
These alternatives provide better light control and aesthetic value, updating a room’s look with a sleek, contemporary vibe.
10. Glass Block Walls
Glass block walls, used for privacy, often appear dated and bulky. Designers criticize them for their lack of warmth and style.
Consider frosted or textured glass panels instead. They offer the same privacy with a modern twist.
This simple switch can refresh the space, making it feel more open and inviting without sacrificing function.
11. Popcorn Ceilings
Popcorn ceilings, a staple of mid-20th-century homes, are often despised by designers today. Their bumpy texture not only catches dust but also creates a dated look.
Removing them can be a messy job, but it transforms a room into a modern and clean space.
Instead of popcorn, consider a smooth or lightly textured ceiling. This change can significantly enhance the overall ambiance and modernity of your home.