1. Too many accessories
Decorating with too many accessories can be overwhelming, uncomfortable and uninviting. For an example of decorating on the contrary, read up on the art of feng shui. Feng Shui basically involves doing away with all items that are clutter or that are not directly used each day. These items, according to those that practice the art, are toxic, as they require too much concentration and bring up too many ill memories.
When decorating your space, place your accessories in nice order, but do not let them overwhelm one another for space. Use the principal of symmetry to balance them evenly in places like the mantle or end tables on either side of the sofa. Each surface should be decorated using the principal of the triangle, which creates a nice sense of form. For example, if you have a table with a lamp on it, decorate using shorter pieces, such as books and larger pieces, such as candles or picture frames.
2. Too much contrasting paint
Many people think that each room in their home should have a different and distinguishing color. The colors, if they contrast too much, will create an uneven flow and will truly break up the home rather than making it feel as if it is one congruent space.
Instead, choose one color, such as blue, and paint your home in either the same shade of blue, or in variants to blue. The similar color will enable the visitor to feel comfortable and the eye to flow smoothly from room to room, especially when multiple rooms are visible from one spot. For a real change in rooms, you can add colorful carpets, but do not change the colors of the walls too much.
3. Bad furniture mixing
Many beginning decorators do not understand the principles of mixing furniture. In general, keep in mind that your furniture is not only meant to be functional, but it is also meant to add to the overall appearance of your space. For example, you do not want to place a large sofa between two disproportionately sized end tables. The tables will be dwarfed by the huge end table. Likewise, you do not want to place a small television on a large TV stand, or the TV will appear too small for the stand. Visit a local home furniture store for some examples of nicely balanced room decorating.
4. Bare walls and floors
One of the quickest ways to make your home feel unfinished to leave the floor and the walls a bare, monotone color. To quickly dress up your home, paint the walls in a shade that is pleasing to you. Add a carpet or rug to the floor (you can find one on sale at a carpet outlet or home furnishing store.)
5. Cheap items
Cheap items, such as futons and card tables, will instantly make your home feel cheap an unplanned. Spend a few extra dollars on well-built items, even if it means not purchasing as many items right away. Cheap items will only make your home appear is if it is inhabited either by students or a very poor family. Chances are, you can spring for a few nicer pieces for a few extra bucks.