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Designers Reveal the Most Disastrous Decor Trends Spotted on Social Platforms

uncensoredtake: Disregarding aesthetic appeal, these 6 social media trends in home decor, such as dupe-culture and excessive OTT lighting, are despised by designers.

From popular trends to dubious decor styles, this piece enlightens us about six social media fads...
From popular trends to dubious decor styles, this piece enlightens us about six social media fads in home design that leave many designers cringing. Ranging from dupe-culture to excessive OTT lighting, these trends seem to have taken over our homes.

Ready to ditch some of the ho-hum trends perpetuated on social media and elevate your home with a stylish touch? We got you covered with these six design traps to steer clear of, as recommended by top interior designers.

1. It's All About Authenticity

This past year has seen a rise in buying vintage and classic pieces, with antiques from the mid-20th century becoming status symbols (ones that we don't want to cheapen with knock-off replicas). Dubbed 'dupe culture', this practice tends to ignore the skilled craftsmanship that gave these products their legendary status, ruining the integrity of their originals. If it's worth having, spend the extra dough – your derriere will thank you with a comfier sit and your wallet will appreciate the resale value!

While sourcing those coveted designer pieces might be a challenge, learning how to thrift and shop second-hand will help you sniff out the vintage gems amidst the junk. As the editorial director for 1stDibs, Anthony Barzilay Freund is an expert in the field, overseeing all digital and print content for the company. He's previously served as Editor-in-Chief of Art+Auction and an arts and culture editor at Town & Country.

2. Shake Up the Copy-Paste Aesthetic

If 'Instagram-ready' rooms have you feeling jaded, interior designer Jodi Peterman empathizes. She believes that copying and pasting the same Pinterest, Interest, or TikTok designs creates a monotonous, lifeless space that lacks personal flair. To inject some soul into your dwelling, think about the feelings you want to evoke within your space, not just its physical appearance. Start adding details that speak to who you are, such as something vintage, a color that lifts your mood, or an object with a backstory. Expressing yourself through your space will ensure that it's a one-of-a-kind reflection of your persona.

Jodi Peterman, CEO and founder of Elizabeth Erin Designs, offers decades of experience as a designer, having completed over 300 high-end projects across the United States with her team.

jazz up your pad with a touch of character. Consider adding a chic coffee table book focused on art history to your living room. Or, if you're a collector at heart, look for interesting matches to display in an attractive holder or repurpose as wall art.

Regardless of your budget, there are numerous ways to customize your space. For example, consider making your own initial embellishment on a throw blanket to show off your unique flair.

3. Embrace Elaborate Curtain Rods

Add drama to your windows by trading that shower rod in for a posh curtain rod that fits your windows perfectly and truly makes a statement. Plus, these rods help maximize the height and width of your space by supporting heavy fabrics effectively. Stephanie Schlegelmilch, founder and creative director of Studio Seva, wholeheartedly recommends this investment for an elevated, polished room. Fret not if you're unable to find an ideal curtain rod; there are plenty of versatile options available that can suit the architectural nuances of your particular room.

Stephanie Schlegelmilch is the visionary behind Studio Seva, a forward-thinking design company based in Westport, Connecticut. Her passion for all things decorative stems from a young age, leading her to create stunning and current interiors by blending comfort with style.

4. The Overuse of LEDs

Get the lighting just right by carefully considering the use of LEDs. While they're convenient and cost-effective, excessive LED lighting in non-essential areas can be a design misstep. Sally Wilkins, designer extraordinaire, suggests focusing on smaller wall lighting features for a tasteful ambiance instead. You'll be all glammed up with options like wall sconces, which provide gentle, charming light and offer an exquisite touch to any space.

5. Stop Mixing and Matching Everything

Embrace a layered, natural aesthetic by ditching the overuse of matching colors, textures, and patterns, which can run the risk of creating a generic, uninspiring room. Jessica Flake, an architect and lead designer at Copper Sky Design and Remodel, believes in showcasing diversity within a space while still promoting visual cohesion. She suggests incorporating various colors, textures, patterns, and materials to create depth and visual interest without falling into an overwhelmingly matched upgrade. This mindset is especially important when designing kitchens, where neutrals with warmth and depth and a variety of colors, textures, and patterns can add character.

6. Ditch the Peel-and-Stick Goods

Peel-and-stick wallpaper, tiles, and countertops might seem like a renter-friendly quick-fix solution, but they often don't hold up well under temperature swings, humidity, or extended wear and tear. Worst of all, these upgrades tend to leave behind a mess when it's time to remove them. Designer Jessica Flake encourages selecting alternatives that don't require acetone or cause residue, such as adjusting hardware, lighting, and small decorative elements. Making these smaller changes won't leave you with a headache when it's time to pack your bags and head to a new abode.

In conclusion, stay away from the trends that lack authenticity, personalization, or are merely passing fads. Instead, focus on fostering a home that showcases your unique personality!

  1. In the quest for authenticity, avoid the duplication of classic, mid-20th-century antiques and their cheap replicas, preserving the artistry and craftsmanship of original pieces.
  2. Escape the monotony of social media-inspired rooms and infuse your space with personal touches, choosing items that evoke feelings and reflect your identity.
  3. Enhance your living room decor with unique items such as a captivating coffee table book on art history or an interesting match displayed creatively.
  4. Invest in elaborate curtain rods to bring drama and height to your windows, and consider versatile options that can complement various architectural styles.
  5. Achieve a layered, natural aesthetic in your interior design by embracing diversity in colors, textures, and patterns, promoting visual cohesion without succumbing to a generic look.
  6. Opt for permanent, durable fixtures and finishes instead of temporary solutions like peel-and-stick wallpapers, tiles, and countertops that can cause damage and are difficult to remove.
  7. Adjust hardware, lighting, and small decorative elements to create a long-lasting, personalized look in your home and lifestyle, ensuring a seamless transition when it's time to relocate.

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