5 Minimalist Decorating Mistakes Designers Never Make

If you’re drawn to minimalism and want to redesign your home so that it better reflects your aesthetic, you already know that you’ll have to cut the clutter and streamline your stuff to get started.

But are you aware of some of the common pitfalls that emerge when people aim to go minimalist? We asked designers what they commonly see so you can avoid the same mistakes.

Accumulating Too Many Small Pieces

Being a minimalist doesn’t mean that you can’t incorporate any decorative objects in your home whatsoever. However, minimalists know to focus on quality over quantity when it comes to accents.

Designer Becky Shea recommends displaying things like sculptural pieces, books, and plants instead.

“Minimalism isn’t just about having less; it’s about cherishing what you have,” she says.

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Forgetting to Add Layers and Textures

A minimalist space should be textural and warm, so bring on the layers—think: soft furnishings, wall coverings, and more. Shea recommends warmer tones and textures that will add depth and character to your space, creating a home that is inviting and comfortable.

“It’s all about striking a balance between simplicity and warmth,” Shea says. “When executed effectively, a minimalist space can exude a sense of soulfulness and richness that makes it truly special.”

After all, there are downsides to designing a space that’s too simple.

“Avoid creating a sterile environment by infusing warmth through warm paint undertones, natural materials, varied textures, and plush furniture,” designer Ayten Nadeau says.

Not Being Creative With Storage

There are some things even a minimalist isn’t able to part ways with. Instead of letting your collections sit out and make your home appear cluttered, you’ll want to think about ways to creatively conceal your stuff like a pro.

Designer Amanda Foster suggests sneaking in storage solutions that will strategically and effortlessly hide remotes, magazines, and anything else that’s often lying around.

“It’s like magic—stash away the essentials, and voila, your once chaotic room turns into a zen haven with double the space,” she says.

Lidded baskets, beds with storage drawers underneath, and ottomans with seats that lift up and can transform storage in a home; there are so many excellent, stylish options that still serve a functional, storage-friendly purpose.

Infusing Too Many Different Colors Into Your Space

Rather than bringing the entire rainbow into your home, be mindful about the colors—or color, singular—that you choose to decorate with, Foster says.

“Ditch the color chaos and opt for soothing creamy tones,” Foster says.

She loves the simplicity of monochromatic color palettes, especially subdued hues. To finish off the look, Foster recommends layering in some neutral shades, too.

Not Personalizing Your Space

A minimalist space should be pared down yet not completely devoid of personality.

“Personalize the space with family heirlooms or photographs to add character and depth,” Nadeau says.

Remember that you can always recover meaningful pieces of furniture that have been passed down over time so that they better complement your minimalist space. You can also reframe photos and art pieces in frames that are more sleek and modern in style.