6 Home Decor Items Designers Say to Avoid
Interior designers are sharing decor items they would skip in a thoughtfully designed home. Some feel outdated, while others can make a space look generic or overly staged.
The list includes playful wall signs, shiny fake plants, mass-produced artwork, and toy-like furniture. Designers also suggest simple alternatives that can make a home feel more personal.
1. Playful Wall Signage
Wall signs with phrases such as “live laugh love” and “beach house” are not a favourite among many designers. The sayings can feel too obvious and lack subtlety.
Interior designer Chasity Centeno suggests using design elements that express the same feeling without spelling it out.
For example, performance fabrics can create a comfortable and practical space. A beach-inspired room can also use neutral colours with touches of ocean blue.
This approach creates a coastal mood without using a sign that says “beach.”
2. Crackled Metallic Candle Holders
Crackled metallic candle holders can work for Christmas or New Year decorations. However, designers do not recommend keeping them on display throughout the year.
Interior designer Jennifer Jones says gold and silver leaf finishes can look overly shiny and cheap.
A better option is to use vintage or aged brass candlesticks. Add taper candles in warm neutral shades such as taupe or grey.
This creates a more refined look without making the space feel overly decorated.
3. Generic, Mass-Produced Artwork
Artwork should help a home reflect the personality of the people who live there. Generic mass-produced prints can make a room feel less personal.
Many of these prints also feature common subjects and lack a strong visual identity.
Jones recommends looking for affordable artwork that feels more personal. Etsy can be a useful source for pieces that match individual tastes.
Local flea markets can also offer vintage and unusual finds.
If you collect several meaningful pieces, consider creating a gallery wall. Vintage, upcycled and original artwork can work well together.
4. Shiny Fake Greenery
Faux plants can be useful in some spaces. However, high-gloss artificial greenery may make a room look less natural.
Interior designer Maria Ramirez says shiny faux plants can flatten a room. They can also collect dust and create unwanted plastic shine.
If artificial plants are necessary, Ramirez recommends matte leaves and natural colours. Simple vessels can also make them look more understated.
Another option is to use low-maintenance indoor plants. Dried stems and branches can also add texture.
These choices can bring warmth to a room without the glossy appearance of artificial greenery.
5. Furniture That Feels Like a Toy
Some furniture designs can make a room feel more playful than timeless. Examples include plastic blowup chairs, bean bags, wavy shelves, bright plastic chairs and bubble sofas.
Ramirez suggests choosing classic furniture shapes and quality materials for the main pieces.
Fun design elements can still have a place in the home. Cushions, ceramics and artwork are easier ways to introduce playful details.
These smaller pieces can also be changed when trends move on.
6. Vacation Frames
Vacation frames that display the name of a destination are another item designers suggest avoiding. Frames marked with locations such as “ARUBA” can make a room feel generic.
Jones recommends putting the travel details on the back of the photograph instead.
For example, a simple note could record the destination and year. The photo can then be placed in a beautiful frame.
The frame itself can add more character to the room. Choose colours that work with the existing palette or consider older vintage frames.
Mixing vintage pieces with modern interiors can create an interesting contrast.
Make Your Decor More Personal
Interior designers suggest choosing decor that reflects your personality rather than following every trend.
Simple materials, meaningful artwork and thoughtful accessories can give a home a more individual feel. Small decorative changes can also add personality without overwhelming the room.
