Interior Designers Identify Six Common Apartment Decorating Mistakes

This article was prepared from the source material provided, which consisted of a decorating article featuring interviews with four interior designers.

Four interior designers have identified six recurring decorating mistakes that apartment dwellers make, offering corrections that range from rug placement to rental negotiation. The guidance, shared with the source publication, focuses on planning ahead and choosing pieces that work in compact spaces.

Danielle DiBernardo, founder of Danielle Interiors, said a common error is purchasing a rug that is too small. She advised that the front legs of furniture should rest on the rug, a rule that anchors a seating area even in a compact room.

Furniture scale presents another challenge. Jill Wheeler, founder of Birch Hill Interiors, said people often try to transfer larger pieces from a previous home, only to find the furniture looks squished. A traditional 82-inch console or a full three-seater sofa may overwhelm an apartment living room. Danielle Domingues, founder of Collins & Co Interiors, uses a top-down space plan to determine what fits. She noted that a 60-inch round table and a 48-inch round table may not sound very different, but the choice significantly affects an apartment's feel and flow.

Lighting is a third pitfall. DiBernardo said apartments are not known for good lighting, so residents should add multiple sources such as table lamps, floor lamps, and sconces rather than relying on harsh overhead fixtures. She suggested using lamps to express personal style through shades and bases.

Renters should also ask about allowed upgrades, according to Michael Graham-Smith, founder of Graham-Smith Designs. He encouraged tenants to learn whether their lease permits painting or removable wallpaper, changes that can transform a space. When such alterations are not allowed, he recommended curtains and rugs to elevate a room without repainting at the end of a lease, and noted that these items can be sold or moved to a future home.

Color hesitation is another mistake. Wheeler said a black accent wall or wallpapered room can make an apartment look bigger, and she encouraged residents to move beyond neutral tones even if they do not plan to stay long.

Finally, Graham-Smith advised against investing in expensive pieces that will not translate to a next apartment or home. Instead, he suggested spending on items residents will love, such as a good bed, chair, or coffee table.