5 Minimalist Decorating Mistakes Designers Want You to Avoid

If you're drawn to minimalism and want to redesign your home so that it better reflects your aesthetic, you already know that you'll have to cut the clutter and streamline your stuff to get started.

However, are you aware of some of the common pitfalls that emerge when people aim to go minimalist?

We've spoken with three professional interior designers who weigh in below on the five most common mistakes that people make when trying to embrace a minimalist look at home. Keep reading so that you can be sure to steer clear of these errors and design a wow-worthy space.

Meet the Experts

• Becky Shea is the founder of Becky Shea Design.

• Ayten Nadeau is the founder of I-Ten Designs.

• Amanda Foster is the founder of Foster Decor Consulting.

Accumulating Too Many Small Pieces

Being a minimalist doesn't mean that you can't incorporate any decorative objects in your home whatsoever. However, minimalists know to focus on quality over quantity when it comes to accents.

"Say no to all those little knick-knacks that tend to accumulate," Becky Shea, the founder of Becky Shea Design, says. She recommends displaying things like sculptural pieces, books, and plants instead.

"Minimalism isn't just about having less; it's about cherishing what you have," the designer adds.

Forgetting to Add Layers and Textures

A minimalist space should be textural and warm, so bring on the layers—think: soft furnishings, wall coverings, and more, Shea notes.

Shea recommends warmer tones and textures that will add depth and character to your space. says. Layers are key to designing a home that is inviting and comfortable, the designer explains.

"It's all about striking a balance between simplicity and warmth," Shea says. "When executed effectively, a minimalist space can exude a sense of soulfulness and richness that makes it truly special."

After all, there are downsides to designing a space that's too simple.

"Avoid creating a sterile environment by infusing warmth through warm paint undertones, natural materials, varied textures, and plush furniture," Ayten Nadeau, the founder of I-Ten Designs, says.

Not Being Creative With Your Storage Solutions

There are some things that even a minimalist isn't able to part ways with. Instead of letting your collections sit out and make your home appear cluttered, you'll want to think about ways to creatively conceal your stuff like a pro, Amanda Foster, the founder of Foster Decor Consulting, says.

Foster suggests sneaking in storage solutions that will strategically and effortlessly hide remotes, magazines, and anything else that's often lying around.

"It's like magic—stash away the essentials, and voila, your once chaotic room turns into a zen haven with double the space," Foster says.

Lidded baskets, beds with storage drawers underneath, and ottomans with seats that lift up and can house all kinds of items are some of your best bets here. In today's world of furniture, there are so many excellent buys that are stylish while also serving a functional, storage-friendly purpose.

Infusing Too Many Different Colors Into Your Space

Rather than bringing the entire rainbow into your home, be mindful about the colors—or color, singular—that you choose to decorate with, Foster says.

Foster loves the simplicity of monochromatic color palettes, especially subdued hues. "Ditch the color chaos and opt for soothing creamy tones," Foster says.

To finish off the look, the designer recommends layering in some neutral shades, too.

Not Personalizing Your Space

A minimalist space should be pared down yet not completely devoid of personality. Why design a cookie-cutter home when you can weave in special pieces that reflect your personal story and aesthetic?

"Personalize the space with family heirlooms or photographs to add character and depth," Nadeau says.

Tip

You can still decorate with heirloom pieces when designing a minimalist home. Keep in mind that a simple reupholstery job can totally transform a timeless piece of furniture with great bones while better suiting your style.

Note that you can always recover meaningful pieces of furniture that have been passed down over time so that they better complement your minimalist space. You can also reframe photos and art pieces in frames that are more sleek and modern in style.

Read Next: How to Master a Cozy Minimalist Look at Home

Read the original article on The Spruce.