Susan Newberry Designs

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Common Decorating Mistakes Part 2

Does your home express your personality the way that you would like it to? Continuing our theme of what to avoid when decorating your space, today we’ll discuss 4 more common decorating mistakes.

Not Decorating with Plants

Decorating with plants is a great way to bring life into your space. Plants are both beautiful and affordable. It’s a great way to bring the outdoors in. There are a host of indoor plants from which to choose. You don’t have a green thumb? Start small. Start with one or two small plants. According to Stauffers easy to grow houseplants include:

  • ZZ plant

  • Snake plant

  • Spider plant

  • Pothos

  • Succulents and cacti

  • Bamboo

Buy from a local nursery and ask questions when you buy. Some of the worst things you can do to a plant are overwatering and not providing enough light.

Be sure to have fun with pottery. Add decorative pottery to your plants. The pottery you choose is a great way to show off your personal style.

A Cluttered Kitchen

Most of us like to collect stuff and that stuff can collect in the kitchen. Remember “less is more” theme that is characteristic of clean line, modern decor? How does that apply to the kitchen. First, don’t use your countertops for storage. Put things away when not in use. Ask yourself: Is it used every day? Then you probably want to keep it out. A coffee maker is a good example of something that is used every day. But if you occasionally bake, then find a place to store your mixer. If you occasionally make smoothies, put your blender away and take it out when needed.

Next, do you want to take advantage of the latest trends? You’ve probably noticed the popularity of open shelving in the kitchen. Ask yourself is it really for you? Even designers are divided over the value of open shelving. It’s true, open shelving is a great way to display beautiful items, but it can also become a place to collect clutter as well as dirt and grime. If you do decide on open shelving, make sure there is a cohesive style to what is displayed.

Ignoring the Outside of Your Home

The front entry is the first thing people see when they pull up to your house. So, take some time to make it welcoming. Can you have some plants to welcome people? A welcome sign? A rug or mat? Is there good lighting? Can you paint the door a bold color? Are your house numbers displayed clearly? All these things add to the home’s curb appeal. The easiest thing to do and probably the most important is to keep it clean by regular sweeping and periodically pressure washing.

ARTWORK BY SUSAN NEWBERRY DESIGNS

Ignoring Your Home’s Entry

Once your guests enter your home, the entry sets the stage for what is inside. Whether your foyer is small or grand, this is the place to make a good first impression. Unfortunately, this space is often overlooked. 

Here are some simple ways to liven up your entryway:

  • A statement mirror

  • A bench or chair to sit down on

  • A console to put the mail and display things.

  • Statement lighting

  • Artwork

  • Rug or runner

Is there a place to put shoes? If your entry is not a separate space of its own, can you add a rug or runner to define the space? Is there a place nearby to hang coats? If not, consider hanging a shelf or hooks.

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Until next time,