Decorating Mistakes That Make Interior Designers Cringe

Solution: Make Appliances Cohesive in Finish

Kitchens are about togetherness, and design choices should reflect that. Stainless steel appliances and chairs give a modern touch to this bright, contemporary kitchen. “Regarding the appliance finishes, I’d say the most important aspect is cohesion in finish,” says architect and designer Jeff Troyer. “I don’t necessarily need to use the same brand of appliance, but a matching finish is important.” He offers one more tip: Make sure that when using different brands of appliances that the handles match.

Solution: Use Different Types of Lighting

Use both overall light and task lighting in a kitchen. Try to make sure that function matches form and create beautiful spaces. Also, undercabinet lighting is a must.

Solution: Bold Art and Furniture

Paint the room — and even the ceiling— a subtle color and allow that to be the jumping-off point for your color palette, the designer says. Art is a great way to bring in texture and pattern, and large scale pieces look fabulous in small rooms and will make them feel larger.

Think outside of the box when selecting your tables and chairs. Dining sets don’t have to match and once you find pieces you love, compliment them with something in a similar style or upholster your chairs with a bold indoor/outdoor fabric for a pop of pattern and color.

Solution: Gather Items to Show Off

Consider how to display a collection, such as exclusive and upscale liquors on this asymmetrical shelving. Designers consider the style and arrangement of the shelving along with what will be spotlighted to create just the right look.