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Begin Your New Home with the Right Design
Moving into a new home is exciting. You’ve got fresh walls, new furniture ideas, and endless Pinterest boards. But as exciting as it is, it’s also easy to make mistakes—especially when you try to do everything at once.
Whether you’re decorating a villa in Dubai or a cozy apartment in Jeddah, good design isn’t just about what you see—it’s about how your home feels every day. And some of the most common mistakes can make even beautiful spaces feel off.
In this blog, we’ll explore 5 common interior design mistakes and how to avoid them using timeless French and European design principles. You don’t need to be a designer—you just need the right mindset.
1. Rushing to Buy Everything at Once
The Mistake:
New homeowners often want to fill the entire home immediately—every wall, every corner, every room. The result? A cluttered space that lacks flow or purpose.
The Solution:
Take your time. French and European homes are known for being collected, not decorated. Rooms evolve with time and personal touches.
Start with the essentials:
- A quality sofa
- A good bed
- Dining table and chairs
Then layer in textures, artwork, and accessories slowly—just like how European interiors mix vintage finds with modern pieces over time.
2. Hanging Artwork Too High or Too Low
The Mistake:
Art placed too close to the ceiling or too far down can make your room feel imbalanced or cramped.
The Solution:
Follow the golden rule of French galleries: hang art at eye level. That’s about 145–150 cm (57–60 inches) from the floor to the center of the piece.
European interiors also favor leaned or layered art—think paintings resting on consoles, or mirrors gently leaning on walls for a casual, elegant look.
3. Using Too Many Colors or Themes in One Home
The Mistake:
A pink bedroom, a navy kitchen, a gold living room—and suddenly your home feels like a rainbow, not a retreat.
The Solution:
French and European design teaches us to choose one main color palette and carry it throughout the home. This doesn’t mean everything should be beige. It just means your colors should flow smoothly.
Try this simple color combo:
- Base: Soft white, cream, or greige
- Accent: Olive green, muted navy, blush pink
- Metal: A consistent finish like brushed gold or black
Use textiles (curtains, cushions, rugs) to add personality without creating chaos.
4. Ignoring Lighting Layers
The Mistake:
Relying only on ceiling lights makes rooms feel cold and flat—even in large homes.
The Solution:
Layer your lighting like the French layer their fashion.
Use:
- Overhead lighting (chandeliers or ceiling lights) for general brightness
- Wall sconces or table lamps for soft, cozy lighting
- Accent lighting (under cabinets, in shelves) to highlight design details
In European homes, lighting is not just practical—it’s part of the design. Think of a crystal chandelier in the dining area, or antique sconces in a hallway.
5. Choosing Furniture That’s Too Big or Too Small
The Mistake:
Oversized sofas in small rooms or tiny chairs in large halls throw off the balance of your home.
The Solution:
Measure before you buy. Use painter’s tape or newspapers to block out the size of the furniture on your floor.
French interiors are great at mixing proportions. You might see:
- A large mirror over a small console
- Slim armchairs around a chunky coffee table
- Light-legged furniture that keeps a space open
The key is balance and breathing space—nothing should feel crammed or floating alone.
Bonus Tip: Avoiding Personal Touches
Sometimes, homeowners focus so much on design that the house ends up looking like a showroom—not a home.
The Fix:
Add pieces that mean something to you.
A framed photo, a favorite book, a candle from your travels—these small touches bring warmth and personality.
In French homes, there’s always something personal—a painting passed down from family, a ceramic bowl from a weekend market, or a favorite chair by the window. That’s what makes a house feel like yours.
Conclusion: Design Slowly, Live Fully
Your new home doesn’t need to be perfect on Day 1. Good design takes time. It listens, adjusts, and grows with you.
By avoiding these common mistakes—and following timeless European design tips—you can create a home that feels beautiful, balanced, and truly yours.
Don’t decorate for Instagram. Design for your everyday joy.
Because the best homes are not just designed—they’re lived in.
Need Help Avoiding These Mistakes?
SHTS Interiors specializes in French-Arabic fusion design that balances elegance, comfort, and cultural beauty. Whether you’re furnishing your first apartment or customizing a luxury villa in Dubai or Riyadh, we’ll help you make every square meter work with grace.
📩 Book your free design consultation today.
