Design Mistakes that will Disrupt the Natural Flow of Your Home

Designing your home is not just about making it look pretty, but it’s also about complimenting the natural architectural flow of your space. You want your space to feel good as much as it looks good. Here are the 5 most common design mistakes that disrupt the natural flow of your home. 

Decorative Storage Baskets No Clutter
image source: designingvibes.com

Mistake #1 Clutter

Clutter can physically and visually ruin natural flow of a room. Clutter not only looks uninviting, but being surrounded by clutter can even add more stress to your life.  Eliminate the clutter by donating or throwing out the things you don’t need and storing the rest in decorative baskets or cabinets.

Desk Facing Door
image source: theteacherdiva.com

Mistake #2 Physical and Visual Obstacles 

When you enter a room, do you have to walk around a piece of furniture, in order to get to the other side of the room? If so, then move it or get rid of it. One exception would be a coffee table in front of the sofa. 

If you’re sitting at your desk and your back is against the entrance, try turning the desk so it faces the door. The goal is to allow the natural flow of your space to take control by eliminating the obstacles in your way.  

Sofa in front of Window
image source: designmom.com

Mistake #3 Placing ALL Furniture Along the Wall 

A common mistake is to place all your furniture against the walls. Step back and find the most admiring focal point of the room. If it’s a window overlooking the city or your backyard, try placing the sofa or accent chair in front of it. Your space will look more unique and the flow will feel less constricting. 

Large Painting on Wall Scale
 image source: decorgolddesigns.com

Mistake #4 Ignoring the Scale

Big, bulky furniture in a small room can make the space feel dark and claustrophobic. On the other hand, many small pieces of furniture in a large space can look cluttered and uninviting. Furniture and accessories (like art, sculptures, knickknacks, etc) should be appropriately scaled to the space it is in. 

Natural Light in bedroom
image source: elmueble.com
 

Mistake #5 Not Enough or Too Much Lighting

If you have natural lighting in a space, make the most out of it, and don’t add heavy blinds to block out the light. Natural lighting is the best ambient lighting for any room, the kitchen, living room, bathroom, bedroom, office, etc. 
If you don’t have enough or any natural lighting in a room, bring in artificial light that creates a soft and inviting space. Table lamps, with a translucent linen shade, will spread light with a calming glow. Avoid bright florescent lighting or bright spotlight lighting.