Let me ask you this: Do you ever walk into your home and just feel overwhelmed? Like, instead of being the calm, peaceful retreat you hoped for, your space feels more like another thing on your never-ending to-do list? If the answer is yes, you’re not alone—and there’s a reason for that. The way your home is designed can have a huge impact on how you feel day-to-day. In fact, some of the most common design mistakes could be secretly adding to your stress. But the good news? There’s a way to fix it.
We’re going to walk through the top design mistakes that might be affecting your mood, your energy, and your sense of peace. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to turn your home into the sanctuary you deserve—and I’ll be here to help you every step of the way.
1. Ignoring the Importance of Functionality
Sure, aesthetics are important—who doesn’t want a beautiful home? But functionality is key, especially if you have a busy life. If your space isn’t working for you, it’s working against you, and that’s a major source of stress.
The Problem
You’ve probably experienced it: a beautiful kitchen where the cabinets are just a little too high to reach, or a living room where the furniture layout makes it impossible to walk through without stubbing your toe on the coffee table. These design mishaps seem small but can create a lot of frustration over time.
The Solution
Function first, then form. When planning any room, think about how you use the space. Consider the flow—can you move easily from one area to another? Are your essentials within easy reach? Working with a designer can ensure that your space is as functional as it is beautiful, saving you those daily headaches.
2. Cluttered Spaces = Cluttered Mind
I can’t stress this enough: clutter is a major stress inducer. And I’m not just talking about piles of laundry or paperwork (although those don’t help). Visual clutter—too much stuff crammed into a small space—can make you feel like you can’t breathe.
The Problem
Too much furniture, too many accessories, or just a lack of organizational systems can turn a room from relaxing to chaotic. When every surface is covered, your brain has to work overtime just to process it all.
The Solution
Declutter, edit, and organize. Less really is more. Focus on a few key pieces that you love and let them shine. If organizing isn’t your thing, that’s where we, THE SAVVY ID Interior Design, come in. We can help create systems that not only look good but actually work for your life—so everything has a place and you can breathe a lot easier.
3. Poor Lighting Choices
Lighting might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about design, but it plays a huge role in how you feel in your space. The wrong lighting can make even the most beautiful room feel cold, uninviting, or just plain uncomfortable.
The Problem
Harsh, bright lighting can make a room feel sterile, while too little light can leave you feeling gloomy and fatigued. And let’s not forget the shadows that make every corner feel a little too dark.
The Solution
It’s all about layering. Start with ambient lighting to fill the room (think overhead lights), then add task lighting for specific areas (like a lamp on your desk), and finally, some accent lighting for atmosphere (hello, candles or string lights). It’s a simple change that can completely transform how you feel in a space. And if lighting design feels overwhelming, that’s exactly what we’re here for.
4. Ignoring the Power of Color Psychology
The colors you choose for your home can affect more than just how it looks—they can actually impact your mood and energy levels. If you’re feeling stressed at home, the wrong color choices might be part of the problem.
The Problem
Bright, intense colors like reds and oranges can make you feel on edge, while too much dark or dull color can leave you feeling uninspired or even sad. If the color palette in your home isn’t aligned with the vibe you’re going for, it could be contributing to your stress.
The Solution
Choose colors that reflect how you want to feel in your space. Soft neutrals and calming blues or greens can create a sense of peace, while brighter, more energetic colors might be better suited for spaces like home offices or playrooms. I’m a firm believer in creating color schemes that support your lifestyle, and I’m here to help you find the perfect palette.
5. Lack of Personalization
Your home should be a reflection of you—not a picture-perfect page out of a design magazine. When your space feels impersonal, it’s easy to feel disconnected and out of place, adding to that underlying sense of discomfort.
The Problem
Sometimes we focus so much on getting the “right” look that we forget to infuse our own personality into the space. The result? A room that looks good but feels off.
The Solution
Add personal touches that make your home feel uniquely yours. Family photos, artwork you love, souvenirs from your travels—these are the things that bring warmth and personality to a space. If you’re not sure how to tie it all together, I can help create a design that incorporates your favorite things in a way that feels cohesive and intentional.
6. Ignoring Storage Needs
When storage is an afterthought, you end up with things strewn everywhere—and that’s an instant stress trigger. Without good storage solutions, you’ll find yourself constantly dealing with messes, which leads to that “my life is out of control” feeling.
The Problem
Open shelves can look pretty in photos, but if you don’t have a way to organize what’s on them, they become clutter magnets. Lack of storage in general means that things don’t have a home, and guess what? They end up everywhere.
The Solution
Incorporate hidden storage solutions that work for your lifestyle. Think built-ins, storage ottomans, or multi-functional furniture. Custom storage solutions can blend seamlessly into your design while providing the practicality you need. This is exactly where working with an interior designer can save you both time and frustration.
7. Choosing Trends Over Timelessness
I get it—those Instagram-worthy trends can be super tempting. But here’s the thing: trends come and go, and what’s “in” today might feel outdated and stressful tomorrow. Investing in trendy design elements can leave you feeling dissatisfied down the road, and constantly chasing trends can feel exhausting.
The Problem
A trend-driven design can lack staying power, which means you might quickly feel the need to redecorate (again). That constant pressure to keep up with the latest design craze? It’s exhausting, not to mention costly.
The Solution
Focus on creating a timeless, classic design that reflects your personal style. You can still incorporate trends in smaller ways, like accessories or throw pillows, but the bones of your home should feel enduring. Our goal here at TSID, is to help you create a space that feels fresh now but also stands the test of time.
How Working with an Interior Designer Can Relieve Your Stress
So, how do we fix all of this? That’s where TSID come in. When you work with us, our job is to take the stress off your plate and replace it with peace, joy, and excitement for your home.
We’ll help you avoid these common design mistakes and create a space that feels intentional, calming, and uniquely you. From space planning and color selection to custom storage solutions and lighting design, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Imagine this: A home where everything works perfectly, feels right, and looks incredible—without you having to lift a finger. No more stressing about whether the sofa will fit or if that paint color will drive you crazy in a month. Just a home that feels like your sanctuary.
Ready to turn that vision into reality? Let’s chat. Together, we’ll create a space that supports your well-being and brings out the best in your daily life.
Until Next Time,
Katherine Jordan
P.S. Don’t wait until you’re overwhelmed by your space—let’s get started on turning your home into the calming retreat you deserve!