5 Interior Design Mistakes to Avoid When Creating a Home That Feels Like You
Inspired by a podcast, a peaceful morning walk, and years of doing it the complete way (and the right way)
I listened to a podcast on my walk the other morning — the kind of episode that quietly gets you thinking, not just about design but about the way we live in our homes. They were talking through common interior design mistakes, and as someone in the design business, I couldn’t help but nod along. I've made a few of these myself — maybe you have, too.
At our design studio, we design using an elemental approach that’s all about personality. We believe every home should reflect the unique energy of the person or family living in it. Whether someone is more grounded and earthy, free-flowing and creative, quiet and serene, or full of fire and warmth, we use those traits to shape their space — not just with style, but with real intention.
So here are five interior design mistakes I’ve seen time and again — and a few thoughts on how to avoid them, while still staying true to who you are at home.
1. Buying Everything at Once
Using a moodboard, like this d2 Pocket Mesa Project board, can be helpful when deciding between multiple pieces!
When you move into a new space (or decide to finally give an old one a refresh), it’s tempting to want it all done immediately. But when you rush to fill your home, you often end up with things that don’t feel like you. It’s like trying to build a personality overnight — it just doesn’t work.
Instead, give your space time to speak. Add pieces slowly. Let your home reflect your story, your values, your rhythm. For clients who are grounded and intentional, this process feels natural — but even for those who are more spontaneous or expressive, a little pause can go a long way.
2. Choosing the Wrong Size Rug
This is such a common mistake, and yet the fix is simple. A rug that’s too small can make a room feel disconnected and unsettled — no matter how lovely everything else is. Rugs are the literal and emotional anchor of a room.
If you’re someone who values stability, comfort, and peace — this matters even more. A rug that defines the space helps the whole room feel secure and whole. Whether it’s under your bed, in the living room, or beneath the dining table, let your rug hold the room together, not just decorate it. Allow the rug to be large enough that it lies part way or all the way under the anchor pieces of furniture. (The rug in this photo only has a little coffee table sitting on it…this would be a no go).
3. Forgetting About Lighting
A room lives and breathes with light. Without layers — natural light, warm accent lamps, gentle ambient glow — even the best design can fall flat. One bright overhead fixture just won’t cut it.
d2 Overlook Proper Project in progress photo
Lighting should reflect your energy. If you’re someone who craves calm and balance, aim for soft, diffused lighting. If you’re expressive and creative, go for dramatic shadows or statement fixtures. Whatever your style, make space for light to change with the day — and your mood.
4. Prioritizing Looks Over Comfort
I’ve done it. Bought the pretty chair that nobody wanted to sit in. Fell for the sculptural couch that was only good for exactly 20 minutes of conversation. But design isn’t just about impressing guests — it’s about supporting your life. Pro tip: I like to allow my clients to sit in potential chairs or couches (or I sit in them myself!) to make sure the piece is comfortable before purchasing. This ensures that comfort, as well as, design can be met if possible! (And the long return process can be avoided.)
Whether you prioritize warm, inviting & comfort OR even if you’re more minimalist or design-focused, ask yourself: do I actually want to live in this space? The best homes are lived in, not just styled for the Gram :)
5. Matching Everything
This is the biggest trap: the all-matching furniture set, the one-color palette, the “safe” choices. But no one has a personality that’s one note. Your home shouldn’t be either.
Instead, let your space show your contrast and depth. If you’re bold, mix materials and scale. If you’re thoughtful and refined, layer neutrals with texture. Blend the things you’ve collected over the yeaars with things you’ve chosen carefully. Matching is easy — but mixing is what makes it yours.
Before and after a restyling of d2 Crimson Meadows Project that still stays true to the client’s personality.
Design That Feels Like You
In the end, design is personal. It should reflect your energy, your quirks, your calm, your chaos — all the little things that make you you. At d2 STUDIO & Co, that’s what the elemental approach is all about. It’s not just about shapes and colors — it’s about honoring the soul of a space, and the person who lives there.
So no need to rush the process. Take your time and remember: the best homes are the ones that grow with you and capture the moments of your life in the most personal way.
