Aurelia Butler

Take the time to curate your best family snaps for a gallery wall. Teresa Mack Noval of A Design Company says it pays to choose your frames wisely, though. “While family photos are cherished, filling your home with countless picture frames in various finishes and colors can overwhelm the aesthetic of your space. When photos are scattered across multiple surfaces in different styles—like mismatched frames from vacations—they can lose their impact and feel visually chaotic.”So what’s the best method for showing off an assortment of family photos? “A more intentional approach is to group family photos together in a single display. Whether it’s a gallery wall, a floating shelf or a dedicated console table, this method creates a cohesive focal point,” she says. Have fun picking frames with a similar finish, Mack Noval says. The options are endless — think matte black, brushed metal or natural wood. “Frames can vary in size and subtle design details, but keeping the finishes uniform shifts the focus to the images themselves.” More

As a home editor, I stay immersed in the latest design trends. I’m constantly chatting with interior designers to discover which colors, furniture styles and finishes they’re currently loving — and which ones they’re ready to leave behind. With 2025 around the corner, I tapped eight interior designers to see which popular home trends they’re skipping in the year ahead — and, honestly, their answers shocked me.Color drenching, bold cabinet colors and open shelving are just a few of the trends designers say are difficult to pull off and won’t age well. In general, the design pros I spoke to are weary of trends, especially microtrends that tend to last only a couple months. One key piece of advice I’m taking away with me in the new year: “If you didn’t love it before it was a trend, skip it,” says interior designer Andrea Lackie.Bold Cabinet ColorsWith the resurgence of ’70s vintage vibes, we’re seeing more yellow, green and even pink kitchens — but this trend may not be here for long. “A design trend working its way into 2025 with a vengeance — one that I believe will be working its way right back out — are bold and vibrant colored kitchen cabinets,” says designer and content creator Galey Alix. “Kitchen cabinets are one of the most expensive investments in your home’s design and can be difficult to change out in a few years when it’s not the trend anymore,” says Alix. “Instead, try going bold with the backsplash or lighting choices — those are far easier and less expensive to change out.”What’s Trending in Home DesignColor DrenchingAs a lover of color, this one hurts me to admit: Drenching an entire room with one hue may look trendy now, but you may not love it in a few years. “Done right, the vibe is cool, but it can quickly feel impractical and borderline garish,” says Rebecca Bobroff, an interior designer. izusek//Getty ImagesColor drenching involves painting the walls, ceiling and molding in a single hue, and often furniture and textures of the same color. Themed SpacesWe’ve seen cultural moments influence design trends, like the popularity of “Brat Green” following the buzz around Charli XCX’s Brat album. But, these trends are often short-lived and “can be a little too much,” says Cheryl Clendenon, creative chief of In Detail Interiors. “Overly themed spaces (like all-in on Barbiecore or a maximalist jungle) might feel fun now, but could date your home quickly,” she adds. “Instead, we say pick moments of these trends — like a pop of vibrant pink or tropical wallpaper in small doses or curated vignettes.” Open ShelvingOpen shelving in the kitchen is a surprisingly controversial topic. It looks beautiful when properly executed, but can quickly become cluttered and disorganized. “Whenever a client wants open shelving in their home, we always ask them to honestly answer this question: ‘Am I truly neat enough for this?'” says E. Norton of Norton Interiors. Minimalist DecorDesigners have been saying it for months: Minimalism is out. People are sick of their interiors feeling stark and cold. “Ultra-minimalist decor with zero personality is on its way out,” says Clendenon. “Homes should feel warm, lived-in and uniquely you. Skip the trend of styling for Instagram alone — design for your life instead. A thoughtful blend of classic pieces with subtle nods to current styles will always shine.”Westend61//Getty ImagesDesigners agree minimalist interiors — popular for clean lines and neutral colors — are on their way out.Mob Wife Aesthetic As minimalism fades, some are embracing what’s being dubbed the “mob wife aesthetic” — a bold, maximalist style characterized by animal prints, faux furs and vibrant colors like red.”As with most tenants of good design, the heavy, over-the-top maximalism that is a hallmark of this trend only works if the client is a Soprano — or at least mob-adjacent,” says Sarah Henley, founder of Henley Design. “Authenticity should always drive the narrative thread of a project, so if the client, the home or the location doesn’t relate to the trend you are considering, we think you should steer clear!”Faux MoldingYou can install trim molding, wall panels or picture-frame molding to fake architectural details — but some designers don’t love the look. “Skip it — especially if your home isn’t from that era,” says Thea Bloch-Neal, founder of Curated by Thea. “Instead, focus on embracing the original details that give your space its unique character. Or, invest in a truly stunning piece of artwork — something timeless that you’ll treasure for a lifetime.”EricVega//Getty ImagesFaux molding can look tacky if it’s overdone or it doesn’t appear natural to the home. Fast FurnitureInvesting in quality furniture can be costly, but some mass-produced pieces are made with non-durable materials that lack longevity. “While these items might seem like a quick fix, they can prematurely age a space and end up being more expensive in the long run when replacements are needed,” says Vyanca Soto, owner and principal designer at Market Studio Interiors.”Instead, I suggest investing in higher-quality items that offer both style and longevity. These pieces become the anchors of your home, evolving gracefully over time and providing a much richer, more intentional design experience.”Limewash WallsIn recent years, more people have experimented with limewash as a way to add texture to their space — but it doesn’t always turn out as planned. “Skip the limewash, especially if you’re planning a DIY. It’s tricky to get right, and you’ll likely regret it halfway through,” says Bloch-Neal.More Design Mistakes to AvoidAlyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries. More

Recently, steam cleaners have surged in popularity as a powerful way to clean a variety of surfaces in your home without harsh chemicals. To help you get the most out of this appliance, the experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab share items you might not know you can clean and sanitize with a steam cleaner.We don’t recommend using steam cleaners or wet mops on wood or laminate floors or butcher block countertops, even if your machine’s manual claims it’s safe. However, steam cleaners can be incredibly versatile for other tasks. Use them to whiten dingy grout, degrease grills or ovens, remove build-up around faucets or freshen hard-to-wash fabrics. Just be sure to always check your steamer’s guidelines for recommended attachments, as not all models come with the same options.GrillsTo remove grease and grime from your barbecue once it’s cooled, fill your steam cleaner with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions, then use a scraper or brush attachment to guide the steam over the grates to loosen any stuck-on mess. Wipe with a damp cloth or a brush.Ovens and stovetopsMake sure your stovetop and oven are off and cool, then remove the burner grates and the oven racks (here’s our advice on how to clean oven racks). Turn the steam cleaner on and, using a scraper or brush attachment to direct the steam, clean the cooktop, walls, doors and any grooves where crumbs and grime may settle. Wipe clean with a sponge or microfiber cloth. Carolyn Forte/Good HousekeepingFaucetsFaucets are prone to lime and calcium buildup, particularly if you have hard water. Using a steamer with a soft-bristled attachment can help you get rid of this tough-to-clean residue without damaging the finish. Simply blow steam onto the faucet head and into any grooves around it, then use the brush scrub. Wipe clean with a dry microfiber cloth. GroutIf your steam cleaner comes with a small, narrow brush, you can use it to brighten dingy grout lines around the sink, tub or shower. Just make sure grout lines between the floor and wall tiles are sealed before you use steam to clean them. Once you’re done, use a cloth to wipe and dry the surface. DraperyIf your steam cleaner comes with a fabric-steaming attachment, you can use it on drapes and curtains to eradicate dust, remove odors and even remove certain stains. We recommend testing a small spot first to ensure colorfastness. Then, simply pass the steam over your drapes in small sections, moving from top to bottom. Stuffed animalsTo eliminate bacteria, dust mites and other allergens from plush toys without washing them, go over them slowly with a steamer. Then vacuum the toy thoroughly with your vacuum’s upholstery attachment. MattressesIf you have a steamer equipped with a fabric-steaming attachment, pass it over your mattress in sections, holding the nozzle as close to the fabric as you can (without causing the steamer to drip). The steam will help kill any dust mites lurking near the surface and help remove odors. Finish by vacuuming your mattress with the vacuum’s upholstery attachment. jopstockPillowsYou can also use a steam cleaner to freshen up pillows — particularly those that can’t take a spin in the washing machine. Simply run the steam cleaner’s fabric-steaming attachment over the entire surface area of the pillow, front and back, then let air dry. WindowsIf your steam cleaner comes with a squeegee attachment, it can clean your windows. Use it to loosen any dirt on the glass, then wipe clean with a dry microfiber cloth for a streak-free finish. Glass shower doorsTarget limescale buildup on glass shower doors with your steam cleaner. This task is particularly effective if your machine comes with a squeegee attachment, but you can also use any small brushes to eradicate buildup and residue around the drain, along the walls and even inside the tracks of a sliding glass door.Pet bedsFirst, thoroughly vacuum your pet’s bed to remove any hair and debris. Then use your steam cleaner’s fabric-steaming attachment to steam the bed in sections, holding the nozzle as close to the fabric as you can (without causing the steamer to drip). The high heat will help tackle light stains and remove lingering odors caused by dirt and dander. Once done, let the bed air dry before letting your pet use it again. Outdoor furnitureYou can clean much of your outdoor furniture with a steam cleaner: benches, pool loungers, couch cushions, tables. Just make sure you have the right attachment for the item you’re working on. For example, a microfiber pad is safe for aluminum options, while a fabric-steaming attachment is better suited for cushions and pillows. Tools and garden equipmentShovels, rakes and even dirty or rusty tools can get quite the makeover from a steam cleaner. Use attachments like nozzles and brushes to get into any small crevices to remove dirt and debris, then wipe with a clean cloth. Car hubcaps and rimsRemove brake dust and dirt with your steam cleaner’s precision attachment, getting into all the crevices on the wheels. Then, wipe with a clean microfiber cloth. SneakersA fabric-steaming attachment can help rid your sneakers of dirt and grime on the sole, but can also help clean the upper and deodorize the interior. Just be sure to test a small area first to ensure the steam won’t damage your shoes. Backpacks and luggageHold your steam cleaner’s nozzle a few inches away from the bag’s surface and move it across the fabric, both inside and out, to spot clean small stains, remove caked-on dirt and help sanitize. Related StoriesBrigitt is a writer, editor and craft stylist with nearly 15 years of experience. She specializes in lifestyle topics, including home, health, parenting, beauty, style, food, entertaining, travel and weddings. She has written for Glamour, People, Good Housekeeping, Women’s Health, Real Simple, Martha Stewart, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and more. More

It’s almost impossible not to feel comfortable and at home at grandma’s house. And while that may have a lot to do with fond childhood memories or the fact that she’s family, at least part of it comes from the charming, nostalgic decor all grandmas seemingly master naturally throughout their lives.”The quintessential ‘grandma’s house’ is often associated with a colorful and cozy aesthetic, characterized by patterned drapes and eclectic decor,” says Miranda Cullen, principal designer and founder of Inside Stories. Designers are seeing certain vintage trends come back to life — and to no surprise, you can find a ton of inspiration by taking a quick trip to grandma’s. From patterned wallpaper to embroidered linens, we spoke to three interior designers to learn more about the retro design trends that are making a comeback this year. Wood Tones Eric Lucero PhotographyOak dining tables, stained bookcases and even rustic wooden picture frames are becoming more and more popular — and the trend isn’t difficult to implement, thanks to the rise of antique shopping.”With its inherent warmth and texture, wood adds depth and character to any space,” says Cullen. “We are seeing wood incorporated in distinctly ‘retro’ ways, such as reeded finishes, like this fireplace front.” Related StoryPatterned Wallpaper Jacqueline MarqueWhile there was certainly a period of time where all-white-everything had completely taken over, we’re happy to officially announce that patterned wallpaper is back. “Clients are requesting wallpaper in more rooms than ever before, in brighter and bolder patterns,” says Debbie Mathews, founder and principal designer of Debbie Mathews Antiques & Designs. “It has become almost commonplace now to wallpaper ceilings, which is something I was not doing 10 years ago!” Vintage Linens and GlasswareGrandma always seems to have the loveliest linens and most beautiful glassware. Each piece comes with a story — and that’s what people seem to be after these days. “I always love sifting through vintage dishes, china, linens and glassware as they can create the most interesting tablescapes,” says Mathews. “Coupe glasses are now back in vogue and are perfect for serving cocktails or dessert.”Whether placed on a bar cart for decoration or on the dining table for hosting, vintage linens and glassware enhance a home’s personality. Plus, there are tons of unique finds in thrift stores or even on Facebook Marketplace. Related StoryDecorative MoldingErin KestenbaumHomeowners are becoming more and more interested in living spaces that are architecturally exciting. The solution? Wainscoting. According to Cheryl Clendenon of In Detail Interiors, decorative molding is on the rise due to its “ability to add structure and sophistication” to a home. While it may seem like a structural change that requires professional work, adding wainscoting or decorative molding can actually be a fun DIY project with the right materials. Related StoryGallery Walls With Old-School ArtEric Lucero PhotographyIt takes patience, but building a gallery wall with art that matches your own interior design style and carries a history is a trend worth trying out. “Gallery walls featuring vintage or ‘old-school’ art are an easy way to mix the past with the present,” says Clendenon. “We are seeing a lot of this but done with a modern and unexpected twist, like color-dipped portraits for example.”Bold Colors Gone are the days of all-white kitchens and minimal wall decor. Grandma’s house has much more character than that, right? Vibrant wallpaper, colorful curtains and bold appliances are making a comeback in today’s home design, according to Cullen. Recently, designers have even been noticing surprising color-specific interior design trends, including an increase in pink retro kitchens and purple living spaces.Antique MirrorsMedina Interiors / Sarah Baker PhotographyJust because there are a few retro trends that have been revived recently doesn’t mean the whole house needs to be full of them — adding an antique mirror is one way to infuse a bit of the past into an otherwise modern home for added visual interest. As an antique dealer and designer, Mathews loves when her clients request ornate, vintage mirrors.”In my mind, successful design is all about contrast and the mixing of old and new,” says Mathews. “Retro styles resurface because we draw inspiration from previous eras, reimagining them to suit contemporary tastes and needs, bridging the past with the future,” says Mathews. Related StoriesLaura Millar (she/her) is the assistant editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home design. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2024, she wrote for NBC’s TODAY.com where she covered everything from entertainment news to product reviews to pop culture updates. More

1Create a “grab-and-go” drawer.Courtesy of SettledDesignate a drawer to kids’ snacks, treats or on-the-go breakfast, so everyone in your household can quickly (and neatly) grab what they need. “It’s perfect for busy mornings and preventing the infamous snack avalanche,” says Shira Gill, organizing expert and author of Minimalista.”This involves decanting all items from their original packaging and displaying them in an aesthetically pleasing and easily accessible way,” says Pam Meluskey, co-founder of Settled, who suggests arranging the grab-and-go station at a kid-friendly height. 2Hang kitchen tools from a rod or rail.Photo: Keyanna Bowen; Design: Weeth HomeInstall a metal rail or small tension rod under a pantry shelf to “hang lightweight kitchen tools like measuring spoons or produce bags,” says Gill. “It keeps them accessible and frees up drawer space.”Here, designer Jess Weeth of Weeth Home hangs a brass rail, then uses S-hooks to display small pots and utensils.SHOP KITCHEN RAILAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below3Install battery-operated lights.If you’re lucky, your pantry has overhead lighting — but still, it can be difficult to see every shelf. “Under cabinet lighting is a game changer,” says Emi Louie, professional organizer. “Stick-on motion-sensor lights can help you see what you have in deep shelves or cabinets.”There are plenty of battery-operated options available. All you have to do is adhere them to the bottom or side of your pantry shelves. SHOP PUCK LIGHTS4Add storage to the pantry door.Alison GooteeWhether for jars, spices or snacks, an over-the-door organizer will improve your pantry’s functionality. “This space is generally overlooked, but is a great place to add a door rack with baskets to increase storage capacity,” says Natalie Schrier, founder of Cut the Clutter. SHOP OVER-THE-DOOR ORGANIZERSAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below5Use cardboard magazine holders for storage. Julie Stobbe”Magazine holders aren’t just for a home office,” says Gill. Use them to store awkward items like foil, parchment paper and storage bags vertically. They’re also great for plastic cutting boards and boxes of pasta. “This hack is very versatile,” adds Julie Stobbe of Mind Over Clutter, who prefers cardboard magazine holders with sold sides.SHOP MAGAZINE HOLDERS6Bring in a rolling cart.Photo: Polina Pigulevsky; Design: South Home Design”If you need more flexibility, a rolling cart tucked into a corner is a clever way to store extras while keeping them accessible,” says Gill. Here, 27 South Home Design brings in a bronze rolling cart to organize entertaining essentials that can be pulled out when guests are over.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below7Put snacks and spices on a Lazy Susan.Courtesy of SettledOrganizers agree: Lazy Susans are a great way to ensure everyday ingredients, snacks and spices are within reach. “They’re always useful for oil, vinegar, condiment and sauce bottles, as well as canned goods,” says Schrier. SHOP TURNTABLES8Write expiration dates on the back of canisters.Courtesy of SettledAny organizer would suggest decanting ingredients into glass jars and sticking a label on the front — but don’t forget to hide key information on the back. “Use a dry erase label on the back of the jars to write expiration dates or cooking times,” says Meluskey.SHOP LABELSAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below9Use tiered shelving.Courtesy of SettledWhether for cans, spices or decanted containers, tiered shelving helps to tame clutter and maximize space.”The tiered approach ensures you can see every ingredient at first glance,” says Meluskey.”Now you can actually see what you have instead of accidentally buying the same thing three times,” adds Gill. SHOP 3-TIER SHELFAlyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries.Watch Next Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More

1Decorative Storage BasketsNow 20% OffDecorative baskets and boxes are perfect for organizing and storing things like toys, blankets or even snacks for a practical yet visually appealing organizing solution. T.J. Maxx is chock-full of them.”I love using unique wicker baskets to introduce contrast when organizing my home or a client’s space. They add personality and a bit of style to any area,” says Jennifer Du Bois, professional organizer and founder of Home With Jen D. “It is easy to find matching baskets in bulk from big-box stores; however, I can always count on T.J. Maxx to have beautiful, uncommon options.”2Leah Travel Cosmetic CaseKeeping organized at home is one thing, but staying organized on the go is another. Travel cases for jewelry and cosmetics can be a lifesaver for your next trip. Lisa Jacobs, founder of Imagine It Done, recommends shopping for jewelry storage at T.J. Maxx for unbeatable prices. “All of these things are competitively priced in order to move product,” she says. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below3Sliding Under Sink OrganizerNow 22% OffIf you approach organizing under the kitchen sink with an “out of sight, out of mind mentality,” you’re most definitely not alone. But T.J. Maxx has some affordable options that’ll make the process a bit less daunting. “For kitchen organizing, you can score great deals on clear bins for your pantry, Lazy Susans for cabinets and refrigerators and over and under sink accessories,” says Violetta Elezovic, owner of VS Organized Interiors.4Clear BinsYou can’t go wrong with clear storage containers. Find a design that fits in the closet for towels and linens, under the bathroom sink for toiletries or even in the refrigerator for snacks or condiments. Summers suggests shopping for acrylic bins, in addition to a range of other decorative pieces. “They have unique, affordable items like pretty wall shelves with hooks, perfect for a mudroom or family command center, as well as wicker baskets and acrylic organizers for refrigerators,” says Summers.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below5Lux Beauty Organizer With Top And Bottom StorageNow 20% OffRather than leaving your makeup on the vanity or rummaging through your shelves every time you need to get ready, consider an organizer for all things beauty. This affordable option has top and bottom storage to fit all of your favorite products.”Storage bins, over-the-door hooks and makeup organizers are all products we love to use that are available at T.J. Maxx,” says Jacobs. “These products maximize your space and create an organized home thus an organized life.” 6Storage OttomansNow 51% OffWho says you need expensive furniture to organize all of your things? Whether you’re looking to store extra toiletries, a few blankets or toys for the kids, T.J. Maxx has a wide range of storage solutions that’ll do the trick. “You can also find furniture pieces like storage ottomans and dressers to keep things tidy without breaking the bank,” says Ashley Hines, founder of Thee Tailored Life.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below73-Piece Towel SetYou can always use an extra set of towels around the house. And what better way to keep organized visually than with a matching set for the bathroom? The discount store also has tons of other bathroom-related products like shower liners, toiletries and bath mats, according to Jacobs. “They offer a variety of quality products for a great price,” she says.82-Tier Sliding Drawer OrganizerNow 22% OffDeep drawers with lots of downward space can be detrimental to organization. That’s where dividers come in handy. You can find a variety of organizer-approved options for all of your drawers to keep them clean and clutter-free.”The key to a great organizing project is the last step — getting the right bins and drawer dividers to keep your decluttered drawers organized! I love shopping T.J. Maxx for aesthetic and functional clear bins and dividers so I can take my clients’ junk drawers up in purpose and beauty,” says Melissa Klug, owner of Home By Eleven. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below96-Piece Packing Cubes SetPacking cubes can completely transform the way you travel. Organize by outfit, clothing type or simply keep your suitcase compact for the whole trip. Jacobs recommends T.J. Maxx for their travel accessories, and there’s no better way to keep your stuff intact while on the go than with packing cubes of different shapes and sizes.Alyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries.Laura Millar (she/her) is the assistant editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home design. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2024, she wrote for NBC’s TODAY.com where she covered everything from entertainment news to product reviews to pop culture updates.Watch Next Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More

The living room is one of the most frequently used spaces in a home, which means one thing: It needs to be beautiful and functional. A successful room layout is the key to achieving both. In the past, living rooms were primarily used for formal entertaining, but the way many people live in their homes has dramatically changed over the years. These days, a living room can now double as a home office or playroom, making it harder to devise a practical floor plan.Sometimes knowing what not to do is the best way to get started, so we asked four interior designers to share the most common living room layout mistakes. They stress the importance of a focused, streamlined yet versatile space, and encourage breaking away from some things that may seem instinctual — such as pushing all the furniture against a wall or purchasing a matching furniture set.❌ Don’t push furniture against the wall.While it may seem natural to push furniture against a wall, it makes for a layout that’s awkward both practically and aesthetically. It’s not conducive to conversation or traffic flow, and it leaves some areas empty and others cramped. “A long time ago, a decorator told me that furniture needs to breathe, and it stuck with me all these years,” says Maggie Griffin, founder and principal designer at Maggie Griffin Design. Her expert tip for creating a comfortable and visually appealing living room layout? “Anchoring a great sofa on the wall, with a pair of comfy chairs nearby instantly creates a sitting area that begs one to linger.” Emily FollowillTake note from designer Liz Williams and allow ample space between the walls and furniture. ❌ Don’t ignore traffic flow. Aesthetics are one thing, but “considering how people will move in the space is key,” says Liz Williams, founder of Liz Williams Interiors. “If furniture blocks natural pathways or forces people to walk around obstacles, the room feels cramped and uncomfortable.” She recommends planning the living room layout around the main walking areas to avoid obstacles and ensure the space doesn’t feel cluttered. ❌ Don’t create too many focal points.Too many focal points — think a fireplace, TV or big window — in the living room create a chaotic effect. “Try to limit your focal points and if you have multiple stars in the show, like a view and an incredible fireplace, let them anchor the space at two distinct points in the room,” says Nureed Saeed, owner and creative director of Nu Interiors. This is especially important in open-concept living spaces, where it’s ideal to visually divide the area and develop each as its own zone. Design by Liz Williams Interiors, Photo by Emily FollowillIn this coastal-inspired living room by Liz Williams, large art over the fireplace serves as the room’s focal point. Photo by Emily Followill❌ Don’t buy a matching furniture set.A furniture set may seem like the easiest way to make sure your living room looks cohesive, but designers warn against this mistake. “Not every design showroom’s area complements your living room and it’s much more interesting to find pieces that work together instead of buying them all at once,” Griffin says. If the task of piecing together a living room setup seems daunting, Tiffani Baumgart of Tiffani Baumgart Interiors shares a helpful tip: “An easy way to mix it up is to hunt for vintage pieces, like a side table or lamp. A few one-of-a-kind finds will help create both interest and add a feeling of timelessness.”Design by Maggie Griffin Design, Photo by Brian BiederMismatched furniture often looks more visually appealing than a matching furniture set, plus it’s a great way to showcase personality. Photo by Brian Bieder❌ Don’t forget about scale.Furniture pieces that are mismatched in scale with one another and the size of the room result in a cluttered layout. Whether it’s a tiny chair that’s next to an oversized sectional or an excessive number of small pieces such as side tables or ottomans, furniture of different scales can instantly ruin a space.”Instead, choose a few larger, more cohesive pieces that work well together and fit the scale of the room,” Williams advises. To create visual harmony and a balanced layout, “use pairs, whether it’s sofas or chairs, to create a more streamlined look that feels comfortable and organized.” ❌ Don’t center the living room around a TV.There’s nothing wrong with having a TV in your living room, but experts say you should treat it as a room feature instead of its focus. “Prioritize a more flexible layout by creating a balance between the TV and social seating areas,” Williams says. This ensures the space works just as well for a movie night as it does for enjoying a conversation. Also, consider the size of the TV and make sure it’s proportional to the size of the living room. “Though a big TV is a great thought, some rooms simply can’t handle ‘the bigger is better’ concept,” Baumgart warns. Design by Nureed Saeed of Nu Interiors, Photo by Christopher StarkWhile sometimes a TV can act as the focal point of a living room, so can beautiful artwork, a sectional sofa or in this case, large windows with a view. Photo by Christopher Stark❌ Don’t put style above function. “I encourage my clients to think about layout and function as connected concepts, so the idea of creating zones like you would in a kitchen is a fantastic way to make the most of a space,” says Saeed. Make a list of activities your living room needs to accommodate and use it as a guide for selecting furniture and creating a layout. To ensure the space doesn’t begin to feel cluttered, take Saeed’s advice and bring in multi-functional pieces. “Do you need to work from your living room? Add a secretary desk to work from home and then simply lift it up when the day is over,” she says. Design by Nureed Saeed of Nu Interiors, Photo by Christopher StarkUse furniture and area rugs to create zones in an open-concept living space, just as designer Nareed Saeed does here. Photo by Christopher StarkRelated StoriesMaria Sabella is a lifestyle writer with a passion for home and interiors — from paint colors and holiday decor to the latest design trends. Her work has appeared in outlets including Better Homes & Gardens, The Spruce, BuzzFeed and Bustle.  More