Essential Interior Design Dos and Don’ts from the Experts
Published by Episode Interiors | Your Complete Interior Design Partner Since 1995
Picture this: You walk into a room and instantly feel at home. The lighting is perfect, the furniture arrangement invites conversation, and every element seems to belong exactly where it is. This isn’t magic—it’s the result of thoughtful interior design decisions that follow time-tested principles.
At Episode Interiors, we’ve spent nearly three decades helping clients transform their living and working spaces into environments that are both beautiful and functional. Through our comprehensive interior design services, we’ve witnessed countless transformations and learned valuable lessons about what works—and what doesn’t—when creating exceptional spaces.
Whether you’re embarking on a complete home renovation, refreshing a single room, or simply looking to avoid common pitfalls, understanding these fundamental dos and don’ts can save you time, money, and frustration while helping you achieve the space of your dreams.
The Essential Interior Design Dos
DO Measure Everything—Twice
Before falling in love with that perfect sofa or statement piece, grab your measuring tape. Record not just where furniture will sit, but also clearances for entryways, hallways, and door frames. As our design professionals always remind clients: measure twice, buy once. This simple step prevents the heartbreak of beautiful furniture that won’t fit through your front door.
DO Create Layered Lighting
One of the most transformative elements in any space is proper lighting. Move beyond a single overhead fixture and incorporate three levels of illumination:
- Ambient lighting for overall room illumination
- Task lighting for specific activities like reading or cooking
- Accent lighting to highlight artwork or architectural features
From floor lamps and pendant lights to wall sconces and track lights, varied lighting sources create depth and ambiance that makes your home feel warm and inviting.
DO Choose Appropriately Sized Area Rugs
A properly sized rug anchors your furniture and defines your space. The golden rule? All main furniture pieces should comfortably sit on the rug, or at minimum, have their front legs on it. A rug that’s too small will make your space feel disjointed and cramped.
DO Pull Furniture Away from Walls
Resist the urge to push everything against the wall. Instead, pull furniture two to three inches away to create shadows and depth. This technique actually makes rooms feel larger and more sophisticated. Consider floating a chair or two in the middle of your seating arrangement to create variety and visual interest.
DO Invest in Quality Key Pieces
While it’s tempting to cut costs everywhere, splurging on frequently used items like sofas, dining tables, and beds pays dividends. These foundational pieces should offer both comfort and durability. As we tell our clients, it’s better to invest in one great-quality piece that will last forever than to repeatedly replace cheaper alternatives.
DO Hang Art at Eye Level
Wall art should be enjoyed, not strain your neck. Hang pieces at or near eye level—typically 57-60 inches from the floor to the center of the artwork. This creates visual harmony and makes your space feel more polished and intentional.
DO Create a Balanced Color Palette
Start with neutral base colors and bring them to life with carefully chosen accent colors. This approach creates visual interest without overwhelming the space. A well-balanced palette sets the tone for your entire home and creates flow between rooms.
DO Test Paint Colors Extensively
Paint colors can look dramatically different throughout the day. Create large test patches—at least 3 feet by 3 feet—and observe them in various lighting conditions and different times of day before making your final decision.
The Critical Interior Design Don’ts
DON’T Ignore Scale and Proportion
Understanding scale is crucial for creating harmonious spaces. Avoid pairing tiny furniture with massive rooms or overwhelming small spaces with oversized pieces. Consider how all elements work together—if you choose a large sectional, ensure your coffee table and rug are proportionally sized to match.
DON’T Rely on Single Light Sources
Depending solely on overhead lighting creates harsh shadows and an unwelcoming atmosphere. Rooms with only one or two light sources often feel dark and uninviting, regardless of how bright those fixtures might be.
DON’T Choose Style Over Comfort
Beautiful furniture that’s uncomfortable to use defeats the purpose of good design. Always test seating before purchasing—visit showrooms when possible and prioritize “the sit” of your furniture. Your space should be both aesthetically pleasing and livable.
DON’T Overcrowd Your Space
More isn’t always better. Overcrowding creates visual chaos and makes spaces feel smaller. Leave breathing room between furniture pieces and maintain clear pathways. Remember Coco Chanel’s advice: “Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off”—the same principle applies to interior design.
DON’T Ignore Your Home’s Architecture
Respect the bones of your space. While you can certainly mix styles creatively, ensure that your choices complement rather than fight against your home’s architectural character. The most successful designs enhance existing features rather than competing with them.
DON’T Be Afraid to Take Calculated Risks
Playing it too safe often results in forgettable, generic spaces. Don’t be afraid to incorporate dramatic colors in small spaces like powder rooms or entryways—these can add personality and make your entire home feel more dynamic and interesting.
DON’T Skip the Rug Pad
This seemingly minor detail makes a major difference in both safety and appearance. Rug pads prevent slipping, extend rug life, and help maintain proper positioning. They’re an inexpensive investment that’s always worth making.
DON’T Forget About Traffic Flow
Consider how people move through your space. Furniture arrangements should facilitate natural conversation and movement patterns. Avoid creating obstacle courses or blocking pathways with poor furniture placement.
Making Your Vision Reality
Creating a beautifully designed space requires more than following rules—it demands understanding how these principles work together to support your lifestyle and reflect your personality. The most successful interiors balance functionality with aesthetics, comfort with style, and personal taste with timeless design principles.
At Episode Interiors, we believe every space has the potential to become extraordinary. Our team of highly trained professionals combines technical expertise with creative vision to transform your environment into something truly special. From initial concept to final installation, we handle every detail of your interior design journey.
Ready to Transform Your Space?
Don’t let common design mistakes compromise your vision. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to refresh your current space, Episode Interiors is here to guide you through every step of the process.
Contact Episode Interiors today for a consultation and discover how our comprehensive interior design services can bring your dream space to life.
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At Episode Interiors, we’re committed to exceeding your expectations with our dedication to craftsmanship, customer service, and innovative solutions. Let us help you create spaces that foster lasting memories and continual inspiration.