7 decorating mistakes Eastbourne homeowners make (And how to fix them)

7 decorating mistakes Eastbourne homeowners make (And how to fix them)

Learn from a professional decorator in Eastbourne. We reveal 7 common interior design mistakes and share simple fixes to transform your home decor.

Everyone makes decorating mistakes. From an oversized sofa that swallows a room to a gallery wall that feels a little off, these pitfalls can be frustrating. We've seen it all when working with Eastbourne homeowners. The good news is, these are simple fixes that can make a huge difference. As professional decorators in Eastbourne, here are seven of the most common mistakes and our professional advice on how to avoid them. This will give you some great Eastbourne decorating tips.

The 7 mistakes & their solutions:

1. Choosing paint colour first: So many people get excited and choose a paint colour before anything else. The problem? It’s much easier to match a paint colour to your furniture, rugs, and art than the other way around.

• The Fix: Start with the more permanent and expensive items first—your sofa, your rug, your cabinetry. Then, you can choose a paint colour that perfectly complements your chosen pieces.

2. Using a single overhead light: This creates a flat, unwelcoming atmosphere. It's harsh and doesn't highlight the beautiful features of your home.

• The Fix: Think in layers. Combine ambient lighting (ceiling lights), task lighting (a lamp for reading), and accent lighting (to highlight a piece of art or a plant) to create a warm and dynamic space.

3. Hanging curtains that are too short or too low: Curtains that stop at the window frame can make your ceilings feel lower and the room feel less grand.

• The Fix: Hang your curtain rod as close to the ceiling as possible to create a feeling of height. Let your curtains "kiss" the floor—this simple trick adds a touch of elegance and makes the room feel more polished.

4. Hanging artwork too high: A common mistake that disconnects the art from the rest of the room.

• The Fix: The general rule of thumb is to hang the centre of the artwork at eye level. If you're creating a gallery wall, treat the whole arrangement as one piece, with the centre of the collection at this height.

5. Not using a rug: A room without a rug can feel cold and incomplete, like the furniture is just floating.

• The Fix: A rug anchors the space and defines the area. Ensure your rug is large enough so that at least the front legs of your sofa and armchairs are on it. This creates a cohesive and inviting look.

6. Ignoring scale and proportion: Placing an oversized armchair in a tiny corner or a massive sofa in a compact Eastbourne flat.

• The Fix: Measure your space accurately and create a floor plan before buying new furniture. This helps you visualise how a piece will fit and ensures the flow of the room is not impeded.

7. Over-accessorising: While you might love your collections, too many knick-knacks can make a room feel cluttered and chaotic.

• The Fix: A simple styling trick is to group items in odd numbers (3 or 5) and leave plenty of negative space. This allows each piece to be appreciated without overwhelming the senses.

By avoiding these common interior design mistakes, you can elevate your home’s design and create a space that feels effortlessly stylish and comfortable. If you're looking for professional guidance to fine-tune your home decor, we’re here to help. Grab an online quote, and let's make your home a masterpiece.