Interior Design Myths You Should Stop Believing

Interior design is one of those things that everyone has an opinion on. But not all of those opinions are true or helpful.

Whether you're on a limited budget, living in a small house, or embarking on your first decorating venture, you've likely encountered some myths that have caused you to reconsider your decisions. And if you've ever thought, "I'm not a designer, I can't make this look good," you’re strictly who this post is for.

We’re busting the most common myths in house interior design so you can confidently create a home that works for you, your lifestyle, and your budget.

Myth #1: Interior Design Is Only for the Rich

This is the most common misconception out there. And it couldn’t be further from the truth.

Reality: 

Good design is not determined by your spending but by how effectively you utilize your resources.

Yes, interior designers often work on high-end projects. But they also know how to style a space on a budget, using practical strategies like:

• Rearranging furniture for better flow
• Choosing affordable decor with impact
• Reusing and updating existing pieces (hello paint, and hardware!)

There are budget-friendly resources everywhere. We have thrift stores, online marketplaces, DIY projects, and even free mood board tools to help you get started. Interior design is for everyone, not just people with big renovation budgets.

Myth #2: Small Spaces Can’t Be Stylish

Wrong. Some of the most well-designed homes are tiny apartments or studios that maximize every inch.

Reality: 

Small spaces can be both functional and beautiful when designed intentionally.

Designing small spaces simply means being smarter with:

• Storage – Use vertical space, hidden compartments, and multipurpose furniture.
• Scale – Choose pieces that fit the space. A compact loveseat often works better than a full sectional sofa.
• Lighting – Use mirrors and layered lighting to create a sense of depth and openness.

Tip: In the house interior design, smaller spaces benefit more from planning and creativity than large ones do from square footage.

Myth #3: You Have to Follow Trends to Have a Beautiful Home

It’s easy to fall into the Instagram or TikTok trap, thinking your home has to look like the latest Pinterest board to be “in.” But following every trend isn’t just exhausting. It’s expensive and unsustainable.

Reality: 

The best homes reflect personality, not passing trends.

Trends come and go. What’s timeless? A space that feels like you. Pick a color because you love it, not because it’s this year's hype. Style your shelves with things that make you happy, not what’s trending.

Want to dip into a trend? Do it with small, interchangeable items like pillow covers, candles, or art prints, but not your whole sofa or cabinetry.

Myth #4: Matching Everything Is the Key to Good Design

If your living room set comes with a matching sofa, loveseat, and coffee table, then this one’s for you.

Reality: 

Matchy-matchy design can make your space feel flat and uninspired.

In modern interior design, mixing materials, textures, and finishes adds character. It creates contrast and a sense of depth. You want your space to look curated and not like a showroom set.

Try mixing:

• Metal finishes (like matte black and brass)
• Different wood tones
• Upholstery fabrics (leather, linen, velvet)

In the house interior design, balance is more important than matching. Mix thoughtfully, not randomly.

Myth #5: White Walls Are the Only Way to Keep Things Simple

White walls have their place. They’re clean, bright, and timeless. But they’re not the only (or best) option for every home.

Reality: 

Color can be calm, cozy, and still simple.

Soft greys, sage greens, warm taupes, and muted blues all offer a sense of serenity without sticking to plain white. Even a moody navy or olive green can act as a neutral when paired with natural textures like wood, rattan, or linen.

Tip: If you love white, consider layering in color through furniture, curtains, or art so your space doesn’t feel sterile.

Myth #6: More Decor = Better Design

We get it. You bought the tray, the vases, the stacked books, and the faux plant. But now your console table feels cluttered, not curated.

Reality: 

Too much decor can overwhelm a space. Less (when done right) is more.

Good styling comes down to editing. Choose fewer, bolder pieces. Let negative space (a.k.a. breathing room) be part of the design.

Try this:

• Group items in odd numbers (3 or 5)
• Arrange in various heights and shapes
• Leave space between groupings

Designer trick: Step back and squint. If your eye doesn't know where to go, it’s time to simplify.

Myth #7: You Must Choose One Style and Stick to It

Labeling your style helps guide your choices. But locking yourself into just one? That’s a fast way to get bored.

Reality: 

The most beautiful spaces blend styles effortlessly.

Mid-century meets boho? Modern with a touch of vintage? Scandinavian and a bit coastal? Yes, yes, and yes. The key is cohesion, not uniformity.

How to make different styles work together:

• Stick to a consistent color palette
• Repeat key materials (wood, metal, texture)
• Mix eras with purpose. Don’t just pile on

The best interior design isn’t rigid. It’s layered, personal, and a little unexpected.

Myth #8: Professional Help Isn’t Worth It

There’s a common idea that hiring an interior designer is expensive, unnecessary, or only for huge renovations.

Reality:

Working with a designer is a yes, even on a consultation basis. It can save you money, time, and regret.

Designers help you:

• Avoid costly mistakes (like ordering the wrong sofa size)
• Maximize your space and budget
• Make decisions faster
• Bring clarity to your vision

If hiring a full-service designer isn’t in your budget, many now offer:

• One-hour consultations
• Virtual design services
• Room-by-room design packages

You don’t have to DIY everything. A little professional input can go a long way.

Design Your Space, Not Someone Else’s

The biggest myth of all? That there’s one “right” way to do interior design.

Good design isn’t about rules. It’s about intention. It's about creating a space that reflects your lifestyle, your taste, and your everyday routines. It's not someone else’s Instagram aesthetic.

So go ahead:

• Mix that vintage table with a modern lamp
• Paint your bedroom that deep color you’ve been eyeing
• Hang family photos next to abstract art
• Keep the hand-me-down sofa if it’s comfy and works for you

When in doubt, ask yourself: Does this make my home feel more like me? If the answer is yes, you’re doing it right.