According To Designers These 9 Items Are Ruining Your Space, And These 9 Are Saving It
I’ll admit it, I’ve hung onto things just in case more times than I can count. But at some point, the clutter starts to crowd out the calm.
If you’ve ever stared at a room and felt more overwhelmed than inspired, you’re not alone. I’ve been there too. That’s why I turned to designers for a little clarity.
What’s actually worth keeping, and what’s just taking up space? The answers might surprise you. It’s time to let go of the guilt and make room for a home that feels lighter, calmer, and way more you.
1. Toss: Outdated Throw Pillows
Throw pillows can be the unsung heroes of comfort, yet when they become threadbare relics, it’s time for a refresh. Pillows should complement your sofa, not outshine it with age.
A splash of new color or texture can invigorate a space. If your pillows have lived longer than your couch, it might be time to find new companions for your seating.
2. Toss: Overly Matchy-Matchy Decor
Too much of a good thing can lead to a decor disaster. When everything matches too perfectly, your home risks feeling like a furniture showroom instead of a cozy retreat.
Mix textures and colors for a vibrant environment. Avoid the overly coordinated trap, and let your home’s personality shine through thoughtful mismatching.
3. Toss: Worn-Out Furniture
Furniture should provide comfort and style, not remind you of its better days. When couches sag and chairs wobble, it’s a signal to upgrade. Investing in quality pieces can transform a space and offer long-lasting enjoyment. If your furniture is more sag than swag, it’s time to invite new pieces that promise both support and sophistication into your home.
4. Toss: Cluttered Shelving
Shelves can be a delightful display of curated decor, or a chaotic mess of forgotten treasures. When your shelves start resembling a yard sale, it’s a telltale sign it’s time to edit.
Embrace minimalism, and let your cherished pieces shine. Remember, less is more when it comes to showcasing your style. A clean shelf makes room for creativity, not chaos.
5. Keep: Functional Artwork
Art is more than decoration; it’s inspiration captured on canvas. When carefully chosen, artwork can become the heart of a room, sparking conversation and joy.
It doesn’t have to match the curtains or carpet, but it should speak to your soul. Keep pieces that move you and elevate your space, transforming ordinary walls into extraordinary narratives.
6. Keep: Thoughtfully Chosen Rugs
Rugs have the power to anchor a room, creating a cohesive look while adding warmth underfoot. Choose ones that withstand time and trends, becoming the statement piece of your decor.
Rugs should never be temporary; they’re the unsung heroes of flooring. Let them pull together your space with style and grace, creating a soft landing for both feet and eyes.
7. Keep: Versatile Lighting
Lighting sets the stage for ambiance and functionality. Versatile fixtures allow you to tailor the mood to any occasion, from bright and lively to soft and intimate.
Include a mix of sources—floor lamps, table lights, and dimmable overheads—to achieve balance. Lighting isn’t just about visibility; it’s about creating the perfect atmosphere for every moment.
8. Keep: Natural Elements
Nature’s touch enriches any interior, offering texture and warmth. From lush plants to earthy wood and stone, these elements breathe life into a room.
They add depth without cluttering, offering a serene escape from the digital world. Keeping nature indoors not only enhances aesthetics but promotes well-being, turning any space into a harmonious retreat.
9. Toss: Excessive Wall Art
Walls can tell a story, but when they scream chaos, it’s time to edit. Over-cluttered walls lose impact and drown out individual pieces.
Select a few meaningful artworks to showcase, and let them breathe with space. Quality over quantity ensures that each work of art is appreciated and contributes to your home’s narrative rather than cluttering it.
10. Toss: Fake Plants
Fake plants might seem like a hassle-free option, but they often collect dust and look out of place. Real greenery breathes life into a space, offering vibrancy and freshness.
Go with low-maintenance plants if you’re concerned about upkeep. If the idea of nurturing a plant feels overwhelming, consider just a few. A real plant’s presence is worth the effort.
11. Toss: Unused Appliances
Appliances can be kitchen wizards, yet when they gather dust, they become counter clutter. Evaluate your gadgets: if they haven’t been used in months, it’s time to part ways.
Clear space for culinary creativity by keeping only what you actually use. A tidy kitchen counter is more inviting, inspiring you to whip up meals without battling a cluttered battlefield.
12. Toss: Old Magazines
Magazines, once the gateway to a world of ideas, can become dusty relics in the digital age. If they’re collecting more dust than admiration, it’s time to recycle.
Keep your coffee table fresh and inviting with a few current issues or books. Let go of the past and embrace the now, creating space for new inspirations to land and flourish.
13. Toss: That Inspirational Word Art From 2010
You know the one we’re talking about. The wooden sign that says “Live Laugh Love” or “Blessed” in curly fonts that seemed so meaningful when you hung it up.
They lack personality and make your home look like every other house on the block. The problem isn’t the message itself, but rather how generic and overdone these particular phrases have become in home decor.
Instead, try framing a handwritten note from someone special or displaying artwork that actually moves you.
14. Keep: Vintage Pieces
Vintage pieces bring stories and character, adding depth to modern spaces. They’re timeless treasures that can anchor a room with nostalgia and charm. Integrate these heirlooms thoughtfully to elevate your decor. A well-placed vintage item offers a nod to the past while keeping your style current. Treasure these pieces and let them tell their tales within your home.
15. Keep: Personalized Decor
Personal touches turn a house into a home, weaving your story into every corner. Handcrafted items, cherished photos, and travel souvenirs paint a picture of who you are. T
hese aren’t just decor; they’re memories and milestones. Embrace personalization that speaks to your heart. Let your space resonate with pieces that matter, creating a unique reflection of your journey.
16. Keep: Quality Books
Books are more than pages; they’re portals to different worlds and ideas. A bookshelf speaks volumes about its owner, showcasing a curated collection of knowledge and adventure.
Quality books enrich any space, offering both wisdom and warmth. Let them be accessible and organized, inviting exploration and reflection. Books are more than decor; they’re companions and catalysts for growth.
17. Keep: Multi-Functional Furniture
In a world where space is a luxury, multi-functional furniture offers smart solutions. Pieces like ottomans with storage or fold-out desks blend practicality with style.
Adapting to your needs, these designs provide convenience without sacrificing aesthetics. Clever designs maximize space and maintain a tidy environment. Function meets flair, proving that efficiency and elegance can coexist harmoniously.
18. Keep: Your Grandmother’s Weird Cookie Jar Collection
Before you donate that quirky cookie jar shaped like a pineapple or the one that looks suspiciously like your uncle Bob, hold up. Designers actually love collections that tell a story, even if that story is slightly bonkers.
These personal treasures add character and spark conversations that generic store-bought decor simply cannot match. The key is displaying them thoughtfully instead of cramming them all onto one overcrowded shelf.
Group them by color or size, give each piece some breathing room, and watch how they transform from clutter into curated charm.
