Interior designers wouldn’t do these things and you shouldn’t either.
Stepping into a designer’s home always feels special. There’s a distinct charm, often highlighted by unique touches, original art, and carefully curated décor. Everything flows seamlessly, not just because of what they have but also because of what they don’t. So, what are the biggest interior design mistakes professionals avoid for themselves? We asked the experts to find out. Here are ten things interior designers would never do in their own homes.Match Everything Perfectly
While it’s certainly convenient to buy a sofa, loveseat, and matching accent chair from the same store, this perfectly coordinated look is the opposite of what interior designers truly want for their own homes. After all, a designer’s home might appear flawless at first glance, but when you look closer, a talented designer rarely creates a space that feels overly perfect.
“Perfection can feel sterile. I believe in a certain rawness—spaces that evolve naturally, with pieces collected over time that tell a story. I like a bit of tension: mixing high and low, old and new, refined finishes with something unexpected. A home should feel lived-in and personal, not like a showroom,” says Award-winning designer Ryan Saghian. “The best spaces leave room for growth, change, and a little imperfection—that’s where the soul is.”
Designer Amy Switzer shares a similar sentiment. “A perfectly matched sofa set? No thanks. I prefer a mix of styles, textures, and eras to give my home a lived-in, personal feel.”Follow Trends For The Sake Of Being Trendy
While your favorite DIYer might embrace every TikTok micro-trend, like Cowboy Core and White Lotus Core, an experienced designer rarely follows trends blindly. “One thing I would never do in my own home is follow every trend. As an interior designer, I believe your home should reflect your personal story, not just the current moment,” says Saghian. “Trends come and go, but timeless design—rooted in thoughtful curation, layered textures, and pieces that speak to you—creates a space that feels authentic and lasting. I focus on blending the raw with the refined, choosing elements that resonate with my aesthetic rather than what’s popular right now.
