I’ve spent a decade-plus in the interior design trenches – an absolute no-no that’ll leave your space looking messy
GETTING too creative with a specific feature in your home can make the space look messy, says a real estate expert.
He shared commonly made mistakes by homeowners that can ruin the aesthetic.
Jim Gray has over a decade of experience in the “design trenches,” having worked as a real estate professional and performance coach at Agent Advice.
Speaking to The U.S. Sun, he revealed his “major don’ts” to avoid when renovating homes.
HORRIFIC HARDWARE
Swapping the knobs on cabinets and doors is an instant way to give dated items a fresher look.
However, Gray warns that it’s possible to overdo the budget-friendly design hack.
“Mixing too many hardware finishes is an absolute no-no that’ll leave your space looking messy and disconnected,” he said.
“Stick to one sleek finish for a clean, cohesive flow.”
FUNCTIONAL FURNITURE
Gray said it’s possible to get a “drool-worthy” luxury aesthetic in your home on a budget by playing with trends.
He said infusing your “own spirit” and mixing pieces you love is great but be strategic in where you put them.
“Poor furniture layout is the enemy of both style and function,” he said.
“Don’t just line everything up against the walls – you’ll kill the conversational flow.
“Arrange seating in those intimate, chill zones made for lounging and chatting.”
BRIGHT IDEA
Gray said unflattering lighting “sucks the life” out of a room so ditch fluorescent bomblights.
“Embrace that warm, layered radiance instead,” he said.
“While we’re at it, overcrowding with clashing colors and busy patterns is another common pitfall.
“Limit yourself to a soothing palette of two to three shades and use patterns very sparingly to avoid that frenetic, cluttered effect.”
SPACE ENHANCERS
Gray said mirrors are one of his biggest secrets when trying to fake a bigger, brighter space.
“Mirrors are magical at bouncing around light, so place a large one across from windows to enhance that open, airy flow,” he said.
“Clearing out clutter is non-negotiable, too – even a sprawling room feels claustrophobic with stuff everywhere.
Gauzy linens or elegant sheers make everything feel so light and bright when hung high and wide.
Jim Gray
“Invest in decorative storage to stash your wares in style.
“And speaking of sprawling spaces, furniture scale is key.
“An overstuffed sofa can dwarf a smaller living room, so go for daintier armchairs and a trim coffee table instead.”
He said sheer curtains are “unbeatable” for bathing your home in the sunshine.
“Gauzy linens or elegant sheers make everything feel so light and bright when hung high and wide,” he said.
Gray previously shared with The U.S. Sun several tips for upgrading homes without spending a fortune.
His advice included faking the look of built-in shelving using bookcases and layering warmth with lamps.
He said items such as an old dresser can be revamped with paint and updated pulls.