by Katie Ryan

Created on: June 14, 2009   Last Updated: June 15, 2009

Let's assume everyone already knows shag carpeting and year-round Christmas trees are big home decorating no-nos. That being said, there are a handful of less-obvious mistakes that deserve to be addressed:

MAGAZINE DOUBLE

When creating a statement in your home, it can be helpful to research interior decorating magazines for inspiration. But they should only be used as igniters for your creativity and not as detailed floor plans. Creating the exact replica of a room you saw in a magazine (as perfect and pristine as it may appear) leaves no room for expressing your own personality. Try identifying what you love most about the showroom, whether it is a color, fabric pattern, or unique photo display, and incorporate it with your existing interior design. In the end, your space is a reflection of you, not page six of a Crate and Barrel catalog.

TOO MUCH OF A GOOD THING

Let's say you're a big fan of pink. Everything you wear, eat, and drive has to be adorned in a rosy shade. While this may reflect your personal style, avoid letting your color bias inhibit your interior decorating skills. Once you see your walls, cabinets, lamps, and appliances dripping in a blinding shade of hot pink, it may become overwhelming. Instead, allow accents of your favorite color, print, or pattern to invigorate an otherwise neutral palette. This way, as your tastes change over time, so can your space.

MATCHING GONE OVERBOARD

While it may be tempting to buy curtains, pillows, and area rugs in the same floral pattern as that bedspread you adore, resist the urge to match. Although it may look charming in the cavernous warehouse of a Linens and Things, more often than not the charm wears off in the smaller quarters of your bedroom. To achieve a cohesive look in any room of your house, avoid pairing exact fabrics and stick to the same color tones instead. A little variety adds interest to any interior space and can transition with you as your tastes change over time.

COLLECTION OBSESSION

Overflowing trophy cases of miniature clown figurines backing against the walls of every room in the house: that's worthy evidence for an intervention. A few seashells from a family vacation to Cape Cod: that's an invitation for creative home decorating. Using memorable souvenirs from travel experiences can be a great way to add personality to your home. Display those pieces by themselves on bookshelves or on mantelpieces beside framed pictures. It not only adds personality to your home in a neat and understated way but also generates good conversation.

Avoid these basic design hazards and you're sure to be on the road towards interior bliss. Happy decorating!

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