6 Living Room Design Mistakes You’re Probably Making (And How to Fix Them)
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A living room serves many purposes—it’s a place for quiet TV time, lively conversations, and a cozy corner to relax or read. With so many roles to fill, it’s easy to see how decorating mistakes can happen. As Mindy Kelson O’Connor, principal of her design firm, puts it, “A beautiful living room that’s uncomfortable to sit in, hard to navigate, or poorly lit will never truly feel stylish, no matter how stunning it looks.”
She adds, “Even if a room looks amazing, if people have to maneuver around awkward furniture or struggle with the layout, they won’t be able to appreciate the beauty of it.” Of course, décor is subjective, and one person’s ideal design might be another’s hard pass—but here are the most common living room mistakes that interior designers and décor experts say they see, along with how to fix them.
Choosing the Wrong Rug Size
A rug can tie a living room together, but if it’s too small, it can make your space feel disjointed. This common mistake often happens when a rug is too tiny for the area, causing the furniture to look like it’s floating. The wrong-size rug can also make the room feel cramped or awkward, disrupting the overall balance. As Sherman says, “This unintentionally makes the room feel smaller.”
To avoid this mistake, aim for a rug that’s large enough to fit the center of the room and sit under your main furniture pieces. At the very least, your sofa and chairs should sit comfortably on the rug. “Items against the wall don’t need the rug underneath as well, but the center of the room should have abundant coverage,” Sherman advises.
The goal is to create a cohesive and balanced look that visually anchors the furniture. A well-sized rug can make the space feel more complete and inviting. Additionally, if you’re unsure about the size, it’s better to go slightly larger than too small. The rug should frame the space, not constrain it.
Relying Solely on Overhead Lighting
While overhead lighting is practical for illuminating a room, it’s often not enough to create the right ambiance. A living room should feel inviting, not sterile like an office. If your living room relies solely on harsh ceiling lights, you’re missing out on one of the easiest ways to enhance its atmosphere.
As Rachel Sherman, principal at Rachel Sloane Interiors, points out, “This makes a living room feel like a conference room instead of a warm gathering in someone’s home.” Layered lighting is the key to setting the right mood. Overhead lights can still serve a purpose, but consider adding lamps, sconces, or floor lighting to soften the room. “Layered lighting is so important, especially in a living room, because it allows for flexibility and creates mood,” says O’Connor.
Table lamps next to a sectional or reading chair can make the space feel warmer and more welcoming. Consider adjustable lighting fixtures so you can control the brightness based on the time of day or occasion. Add a floor lamp next to your favorite chair for reading, or install sconces on either side of your fireplace to create a cozy glow. Not only does this make the room feel more comfortable, but it also adds visual interest.
Furniture That Isn’t Comfortable
We’ve all seen beautiful sofas that look more like a work of art than a place to relax. But if your furniture is uncomfortable, what’s the point? A stiff sofa or delicate armchair might look impressive, but you’ll find yourself avoiding them after a long day. O’Connor highlights that, “An elegant sofa loses its charm if guests are constantly adjusting or grimacing while seated.”
When choosing furniture, balance form with function. It’s essential to find pieces that feel comfortable, too. Don’t skimp on quality just for the sake of appearance. Luckily, many brands now offer stylish pieces made with performance fabrics that are easy to clean and comfortable to sit on. A great sofa should support your body, not leave you fidgeting.
Opt for a sofa with the right depth and cushion support, so it’s not too hard or too soft. And don’t be afraid to test it out! The best furniture is the kind that makes you want to sink into it and stay for hours.
Not Considering the Layout
A living room’s layout is the backbone of the space. It’s not just about aesthetics or following trends—it’s about creating a functional environment where people can interact comfortably. Yet, many people make the mistake of sticking with the first layout they come up with or defaulting to a standard arrangement without considering how people move through the room.
As Sarah Magness, the principal and founder of Studio Magness, explains, “Furniture that doesn’t encourage conversation, or doesn’t consider flow, can feel uninviting.” The first step in designing an ideal layout is to think about how you use the space. Do you entertain often? Are you looking for a cozy reading nook? Should the room encourage conversation? The key is ensuring the furniture flows seamlessly and allows easy movement.
You don’t want anyone having to do a dance around the coffee table just to grab a drink. ” A common mistake is positioning all furniture around a focal point like a TV or fireplace, ignoring how people will interact in the space. Instead, consider the room’s purpose and place furniture accordingly. Mindy Kelson O’Connor, principal at Mindy Kelson O’Connor Interiors, adds, “A truly functional living room prioritizes conversation and ease.”
Underestimating the Importance of Pillows
It’s easy to overlook pillows, but these soft accessories can have a big impact on the comfort and appearance of your living room. Without enough pillows, your space might feel bare and uncomfortable. Think of them as a simple way to add both style and function to your seating arrangements.
Don’t be afraid to pile on the pillows! Mix and match different sizes, textures, and colors to create a dynamic, layered look. Use them for both comfort and aesthetics—they not only provide extra support when sitting, but they also add personality to your space. O’Connor emphasizes, “Pillows are also a great way to add texture, color, and comfort to your space.”
Consider using decorative pillows with unique patterns, but be mindful not to overcrowd your seating area. A few strategically placed pillows can create a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
Skipping on Personal Touches
A living room can feel like a showroom if it lacks personal items that reflect your tastes and experiences. It’s easy to focus on trendy furniture and accessories, but without meaningful touches, your living room may feel impersonal or lacking character. “A room that’s not functional is quite literally useless,” says Rachel Sherman.
Add elements that resonate with you, like family photos, unique artwork, or souvenirs from your travels. These pieces create a sense of warmth and make your living room feel like an extension of you. It’s also a great way to showcase your personality and make guests feel more at home.
Whether it’s a beautiful painting, an antique piece of furniture, or a collection of books, infuse the space with items that tell your story. O’Connor advises using “highly decorative or expensive fabrics for drapery or decorative pillows,” which adds personal flair to your space.
Key Takeaways
Your living room is the heart of your home, and with a few simple changes, you can ensure it’s as functional and stylish as possible. The common mistakes we’ve discussed—like poor layout, inadequate lighting, and uncomfortable furniture—are easy to correct with thoughtful adjustments. By focusing on comfort, flow, and personalized touches, you can create a living space that’s both beautiful and functional.
Remember, a great living room isn’t just about making a statement—it’s about creating a space that enhances your lifestyle and provides a welcoming environment for family and friends. So, take a step back, evaluate your space, and start making these improvements today. Your living room will thank you.
