7 mistakes we make when decorating the living room

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Do you know that your living room can be improved, but you don't know how? Do you feel like something is missing or there's too much and you're unclear about it? Rules of decoration often need to be broken, but there are certain mistakes we should avoid so that the room's decoration works and brings joy.

The living room is the most important room in the house by the time we spend there, as it's a space for relaxation and where we meet friends. And although style and taste are very personal, there are some minimum and general rules your living room should follow to function well.

1. Furniture proportions should match your space

Even if your dream is to have a three-meter sofa, if there's no wall or space for it, the sofa should adapt to the space and try to complement it with cushions or auxiliary seats. You can also choose sofa models that expand in width so you can lie however is comfortable for you.

Aside from proportions, check that walkways work and there's a distance of 65 to 75 cm between them for good room distribution.

2. Matching furniture sets in one style don't work

Your living room isn't a catalog cover, so don’t rush to decorate it. Don't go to the first store and buy a matching dining plate with chairs, buffet, and TV cabinet. That’s very 90s.

3. The TV is not the most important item, so don't make it the center of the room

We all love enjoying a good Netflix session — sofa, blanket, but the same proportion from point 1 should apply to TV size.

If you still prefer a very large TV, find solutions to hide it. For example, place it against a dark wall, surround it with floor lamps, wall sconces, or an option many interior designers choose: hide it behind sliding or pull-out doors so that it stays hidden when not in use.

4. Don't put barriers in the way of light

Curtains or blinds should be white to avoid creating barriers for light. If you like textile items, decorate windows with side curtains that, as the name suggests, are placed on the sides without covering the windows.

5. At least two light sources (floor or table lamps) are mandatory

That's the minimum, because the rule says: there should be a light source in almost every corner. Nothing is sadder or more depressing than a room lit only by ceiling lights.

6. Minimalism is an art, but it's not for everyone

If you like minimalism, don't confuse it with empty spaces. Minimalism requires little but important things, and above all, minimalism does not imply overly small items in large spaces. (A small dining table or rug that doesn’t cover the space — this is not minimalism, but poor proportions.)

On the opposite side, be careful! Baroque also doesn't work well with standard floor sizes. Filling the room with large and showy items is also an art, especially in small spaces. If you like excesses, add them in small quantities. For example, one or two large paintings, or an important armchair. If the walkway rule is followed, this can work, but it's a bit like mixing clothes. Not everything should be overly decorated.

7. Don't underestimate the power of textiles

Rugs, especially on tile floors, and cushions are essential for creating contrast, decoration, and difference between winter and summer, as well as adding color.

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