Interior designers often spot common mistakes in living rooms that can easily be avoided. Here are 10 design faux pas to watch out for, along with expert advice on how to fix them:

TV Placement

• Mistake: The TV becomes the focal point of the room, overpowering other elements.
• Solution: Choose a smaller or more discreet TV, or consider hiding it when not in use.

Furniture Scale

• Mistake: Furniture is too small or too large for the room size.
• Solution: Select pieces that are appropriately sized and scaled to the space. Avoid using apartment-sized furniture in large rooms.

Rug Size

• Mistake: Rugs are too small and don’t cover enough floor area.
• Solution: Choose a rug large enough to extend under the front legs of all furniture pieces in the room.

Lighting

• Mistake: Harsh overhead lighting is the only source of illumination.
• Solution: Layer lighting with ambient, task, and accent lights to create a warm and inviting ambiance.

Bookshelves

• Mistake: Bookshelves are sparse or filled with knickknacks instead of books.
• Solution: Fill bookshelves primarily with books, while incorporating a few select decorative accessories.

Art Placement

• Mistake: Art is hung too high on the walls.
• Solution: Hang art so that the center point of the piece is approximately 57 inches off the ground.

Layout

• Mistake: Furniture is arranged along the walls, creating a formal and uninviting atmosphere.
• Solution: Create multiple zones within the room for conversation and relaxation.

Curtains

• Mistake: Curtain rods are mounted too close to the window, covering the glass.
• Solution: Purchase a rod longer than the window width and mount it high on the wall, allowing the fabric to cover the wall and window trim.

Additional Tips:

• Avoid using fabrics that are too delicate for everyday use in high-traffic areas.
• Incorporate a mix of textures and materials to create visual interest.
• Consider adding personal touches to make the space feel inviting and lived-in.
• Pay attention to the overall ambiance of the room and strive for a balance of comfort, style, and functionality.

By avoiding these common mistakes and following the advice of interior designers, you can create a living room that is both stylish and functional, a space where you and your guests can relax, socialize, and enjoy each other’s company.

The Importance of Hanging Height

When it comes to hanging pictures, getting the height just right is crucial for creating a visually appealing and cohesive space. The “57-inch rule” is a widely accepted guideline that suggests hanging the center of a picture 57 inches above the floor. This height is designed to position artwork at eye level for the average person.

Adjustments to the 57-Inch Rule

While the 57-inch rule is a good starting point, there are situations where it may not be ideal. Consider the following factors when determining the optimal hanging height:

• Gallery Walls: For a gallery wall, treat the entire grouping as one large picture and align the bottom of the grouping with the furniture beneath it.
• Hallways and Entryways: In these spaces, where you’ll mostly be standing, hang artwork slightly higher, around 60-62 inches from the floor.
• Hanging Pictures Above Furniture: For rooms where you’ll be seated, such as living rooms or dining rooms, hang pictures a bit lower so they can be enjoyed at a lower viewing angle.
• Large Pictures: Large framed pieces over sofas or sideboards look best when the bottom of the frame is positioned 6-12 inches above the top of the furniture.
• Small Pictures: Small pictures on large walls can appear out of balance. Consider hanging them in a vertical line on narrow walls or grouping them with other objects for a more balanced look.
• Rooms with High Ceilings: In rooms with 8-9 foot ceilings, hang artwork a few inches higher, around 60 inches. For ceilings 10 feet or higher, go up to 62 inches.
• Vertical Art: For tall vertical pieces, consider placing the top third of the picture near eye level. However, the height of the piece will ultimately determine the best position.

Additional Considerations

• Use Templates: Cut paper templates to the size of each artwork and attach them to the wall with painter’s tape. This allows you to visualize the size and placement before hanging.
• Avoid Sunlight Damage: Never hang valuable artwork in direct sunlight, as the UV radiation can cause fading, cracking, and warping.
• Consider Humidity: Avoid hanging artwork in rooms with fluctuating temperature or humidity, such as bathrooms or kitchens. Instead, opt for framed prints, photographs, or laminated posters that are moisture-resistant or made of durable materials like metal, glass, or acrylic.

Hanging Tips for Specific Situations

• Hanging Over a Sofa: Position the bottom of the frame 6-12 inches above the top of the sofa back for a visually pleasing relationship between the artwork and furniture.
• Hanging on a Stairway Wall: Hang pictures slightly higher, around 60-62 inches from the floor, to accommodate the upward angle of the stairs.
• Hanging in an Entryway: Consider hanging artwork a bit higher, around 60-62 inches from the floor, especially if there’s a tall ceiling.
• Hanging a Large Picture Above a Dining Table: Position the bottom of the frame 15-24 inches above the table surface for optimal visibility while seated.
• Hanging Small Pictures in a Vertical Line: Space the pictures evenly apart, with the center picture acting as the focal point of the grouping.
• Hanging Vertical Art: Position the top third of the picture approximately at eye level for a balanced and visually appealing display.

By following these expert tips and design secrets, you can elevate your home décor and create a visually stunning and inviting space.