11 Tacky Trends Designers Want You to Ditch ASAP

When it comes to home design, certain lighting fixtures can make or break the overall aesthetic. In particular, oversized lighting fixtures are a trend that many designers wish they could get rid of.

1. Oversized Lighting Fixtures

Oversized lighting fixtures have become a staple in some homes, often featuring chunky shades and bulky frames that dominate the room's architecture. While their dramatic effect may be intended to create a sense of grandeur, these fixtures can actually make spaces feel cramped and claustrophobic. Furthermore, they often require an excessive amount of power to operate, which can lead to increased energy bills and environmental concerns. Additionally, oversized lighting fixtures can also distract from the natural beauty of a room, drawing attention away from its original design intent.

2. Busy Patterns on Walls

Busy patterns on walls have become a design faux pas for many, with some trends veering perilously towards the kitsch. A busy, swirling print can be overwhelming and visually cacophonous, making it difficult to create a sense of calm within a room. Designers are increasingly opting for a more minimalist approach, favouring a clean and uncluttered aesthetic that allows the eye to rest. Instead, bold patterns are being reserved for statement pieces, such as armchairs or rugs, where they can add visual interest without overwhelming the space. By stripping back the busyness of wall decor, designers aim to create rooms that feel more serene and inviting.

3. Gaudy Window Treatments

Gaudy window treatments are a design faux pas that should be avoided at all costs. Overly elaborate and flashy curtains can detract from the overall aesthetic of a room, making it feel cluttered and overwhelming. For a more subtle look, consider opting for simple, neutral-toned blinds or shades instead. These understated options will not only add a touch of sophistication to your space but also allow natural light to filter in unobstructed. By ditching gaudy window treatments, you can create a cleaner, more polished environment that exudes elegance and refinement.

4. Clashing Colours in Furniture

1. When combining colours that clash on a piece of furniture, start by identifying the main colour and considering how it will work with other hues in your room.
2. To avoid overwhelming the senses, use clashing colours as accent pieces or incorporate them into small decorative elements, such as throw pillows or vases.
3. Consider the 60-30-10 rule, where a dominant 60% of the room is a neutral colour, 30% is a secondary shade, and 10% is an accent colour that creates visual interest.
4. If you're unsure about combining two colours, try painting one side of the piece or creating a graphic pattern to add visual interest without committing to full colour saturation.
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5. Overly Ornate Planters

At Emma's Floristry, a small flower shop in the city centre, the owner is constantly battling to keep her customers from buying overly ornate planters that are more about show than practicality. One customer recently asked for a planter with intricate carvings and a built-in water feature, which Emma politely explained would be too expensive and maintainable for her business model. She suggested simpler, eco-friendly alternatives that still made the plants look stylish without breaking the bank. This approach has earned Emma's Floristry a reputation as a reliable choice for customers looking for beautiful flowers in modestly priced planters. By sticking to timeless designs, Emma can focus on delivering excellent customer service rather than trying to justify over-the-top planters.

The resurgence of the ' utility chic' trend has led some designers to incorporate functional details into their designs, often in the form of exaggerated pockets and pouches that can be filled with various items such as smartphones, wallets, or make-up bags. This trend is meant to evoke a sense of practicality and hands-on functionality, but it can sometimes come across as overly cluttered and lacking in style. To avoid this pitfalls, it's essential to strike a balance between form and function and not over-accessorise with too many extraneous pockets or pouches that detract from the overall aesthetic of an outfit. A more streamlined approach would be to incorporate just one or two practical features that complement the rest of the design, rather than overwhelming the senses with excessive embellishments. By doing so, you can create a look that is both stylish and functional without sacrificing your personal style.