3 Common Home Design Mistakes (and How to Avoid them with Story)
Are You Making These Mistakes?
A common mistake is thinking that buying high-end or trendy pieces will automatically make your home unique. While these pieces help to elevate your space, it’s how they’re combined with other elements that’ll make them truly unique.
Another is relying on one supplier for everything. This might be convenient and save some money in the short term, but often results in a one-dimensional design, lacking variety in texture, style, and most importantly - character.
Finally, there’s the belief that you need to start from scratch and buy everything brand new to “get it right”. A good decluttering session is definitely an important step in refreshing your space, but keeping meaningful pieces ensures your home doesn’t feel generic or lifeless.
This is Where Story Comes In
So what do we mean when we say “story” when it comes to home design? Story is about curating meaningful art, accessories, and personal items that reflect your life - rather than just following trends. These things make your home unique and full of character, showing who you are.
As automation and contactless technology become the norm, homes are increasingly wanting to tell more personal stories. People want their spaces to feel connected to who they are, creating a stronger sense of belonging.
Design styles are mixing together more than ever (which can make things confusing!), and new styles are popping up to help people express a wider range of experiences.
“Oh but I’m a minimalist”
There’s a spectrum when it comes to “minimalism” and it can feel cold and uninviting if it’s not done right. Our approach is to start with a clean, minimal, neutral base, and add meaning by layering art, texture, and special details to tell your story - and feed your (minimalist) soul.
The science agrees with the importance of story - this study published by the British Psychological Society shows that personal belongings often become part of who we are. They help us express ourselves and add emotional resonance in a home.
An Example of Story
Here’s a glimpse of story from my own home to illustrate how it can be woven into a home interior.
In this bookcase, a beautiful coffee table art book is paired with a sculptural object that was a birthday gift.
Below it, we introduce a touch of green in a clear vase to add height, and layer it with a polaroid taken on the flight back from our honeymoon, and a sculptural pomegranate that was gifted to us on the day.
Where to Start
The beauty about integrating story into your home is it’s something that can happen over time; as your life experiences continually unfold. As such, it doesn't need to be approached with an “all or nothing” mindset, and you can start simple:
Pick a moment: Choose one area to start, like a shelf, coffee table, or wall. Keep it manageable.
Gather inspiration: Find a couple of mood images that really resonate with you.
Audit: Look at what you already own - art, souvenirs, or decor with personal meaning.
Experiment: Arrange your pieces into small groupings, mixing textures, heights and layers to tell a story.
Refine: Take a step back, adjust and remove anything that feels out of space - or if you’re missing something make a note to keep an eye out.
In a Nutshell
If you want your home to truly feel like you, don’t overlook the power of story. It’s about curating meaningful pieces that reflect your life experiences and arranging them in a way that’s both personal and beautiful, creating a space filled with emotional connection and depth.
Still need some help with your home design project? Give me a call. - use the link to book it in.
