The living room is the heart of any home — it’s where we relax, entertain guests, and showcase our personal style. But even small design mistakes can make the space feel cramped, unbalanced, or outdated. Here are 16 common living room design mistakes and how you can fix them:
16. Relying Only on Upper Lighting
Overhead lights alone make the room look flat. Layer your lighting with floor lamps, wall sconces, and table lamps for warmth and coziness.
15. Using the Wrong Size (or No) Carpet
A carpet that’s too small makes the room look disconnected. Ideally, the front legs of your sofa and chairs should rest on the rug.
14. Misplacing the TV
Placing the TV too high or at an awkward angle strains your eyes. Mount it at eye level when seated for comfort and balance.
13. Underestimating the Power of Cushions
Throw pillows add texture, color, and comfort. Skipping them can make your sofa look plain and lifeless.
12. Pushing the Sofa Against the Wall
This creates dead space in the center. Pull furniture slightly inward to make the room feel more inviting.
11. Dark Furniture with Low Ceilings
Dark, bulky pieces make a low-ceiling room feel smaller. Opt for lighter shades and slim silhouettes instead.
10. Choosing Design Over Personal Preference
Trendy furniture that doesn’t suit your lifestyle will feel uncomfortable. Always blend style with practicality.
9. Keeping Furniture That’s Lost Its Relevance
Outdated or oversized furniture can drag down the whole look. Refresh with modern pieces that suit your space.
8. Poorly Positioned Photos
Artwork hung too high or too low disrupts balance. The center of the frame should be at eye level.
7. Oversized Furniture
Large couches or cabinets overwhelm smaller spaces. Choose appropriately scaled pieces for harmony.
6. Neglecting Functionality
Looks aren’t everything — your living room should also meet your needs, whether that’s storage, lounging, or entertaining.
5. Ignoring the Center of the Room
A coffee table or centerpiece anchors the space. Without one, the room feels incomplete.
4. Tiny Plant Pots
Small plants can get lost in the design. Opt for medium to large indoor plants to bring freshness and balance.
3. Old-Fashioned Furniture Covers
Outdated covers can make even modern furniture look cheap. Replace them with sleek, neutral, or textured fabrics.
2. Sticking to Just One Style
Overly matching everything makes the room feel stiff. Mix and match styles subtly for a natural, lived-in vibe.
1. Curtains That Shrink the Space
Short or heavy curtains can make windows look smaller. Hang them high and wide to give the illusion of taller ceilings and more light.
Pro Tip: Your living room should reflect both functionality and personality. A few thoughtful adjustments can transform it from “just okay” to truly stunning.
Credit:brightside.me
