“Tacky” is the antithesis of how we want our homes to be perceived.

Good interior design is rooted in functionality, personalization, and above all, incorporating what sparks joy. Unfortunately, there are a few decor choices that lean more gaudy or cookie cutter than copy-worthy. 

These are five major design mistakes that can make your house look tacky, and what to do instead.

1. Word signs

Let’s face it, we all want to incorporate good vibes into our homes. Word signs, often found at home goods stores, are an explicit way to convey the  “love” and “family” that permeate your abode. That said, they’re a bit tacky. Opt for more traditional art, or even made-with-love DIY decor, that subtly gives off the same message. 

2. Matching furniture 

Matching furniture sets, from the living room to the bedroom, once had their heyday. Nowadays, designers are turning to thoughtfully curated mix-and-match styles. 

3. Poor lighting 

Here’s the thing—we’re not opposed to pot lights or bright overhead lighting. But swapping out your builder-grade flushmount is a simple way to make your space look more personalized. Plus, a mix of light sources—from table and standing lamps to overhead fixtures—offers a layered approach that encourages warmth.

4. Wrong sized curtains and rugs

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again—a too-big or too-small furnishing can make an entire room look off. Ensure you hang your curtains at the correct height (check out our handy guide to picking the perfect drapes) to maximize your ceiling height, and measure your rugs before you put them under a bed or couch.

5. Mass-produced art 

We’ve all seen the same pieces of reproduced art again and again in homes and businesses. Curating an authentic art collection over time is a designer recommendation, but it can be an expensive one. Consider heading to your local thrift store or antique market to source some unique and beautiful art at a lower cost.
 

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