The 5 Most Common Design Myths

By Ester White Gherea | WBN News | June 12, 2025

Have you ever stopped yourself from decorating your space because someone told you, “You shouldn’t do that,” or “That won’t look right”?
Well, guess what? A lot of those “rules” in interior design aren’t true at all.
In fact, some of the most creative, beautiful spaces happen when you break the rules—on purpose!

As an interior designer, I hear these myths all the time. Let’s bust them wide open so you can design with confidence and joy.

Myth #1: Small Rooms Must Use Light Colors Only

Nope! People often say, “Don’t use dark colors in a small room—it’ll feel tiny.”
But the truth is, dark colors can actually make a space feel cozy, dramatic, and special. It’s like wrapping yourself in a soft blanket. The trick is using the right lighting and balance.

So yes—you can paint your little bathroom navy blue or deep green. It might become your favorite room.

Myth #2: Everything Has to Match

If your sofa, chairs, rug, curtains, and artwork are all from the same store, in the same color, guess what? Your room might look like a catalog… and not you.

Mixing styles, colors, and textures adds personality and depth. A modern couch with a vintage lamp? A classic table with bold artwork? Yes, please!

Your space should feel layered and lived-in, not like it was copied and pasted.

Myth #3: You Need a Big Budget to Have a Beautiful Home

Let’s stop this one right here: Style is not about money.
Some of the most charming, creative spaces I’ve seen were designed on a tight budget—with thrifted finds, DIY projects, and smart styling.

You can transform your space by rearranging furniture, painting something old, or just adding a plant and a cozy lamp. Thought matters more than cost.

Myth #4: You Should Follow the Trends

Trends come and go. Fast.
One year it’s all about minimalism, the next it’s colorful, the next it’s all beige again. If you decorate just to follow the trend, your space might feel nice—but it won’t feel like you.

The best homes reflect who lives in them. Love bold color? Go for it. Love soft neutrals? Do that. Forget what’s “in” and trust your gut.

Myth #5: There’s a Right and Wrong Way to Design

This one drives me a little crazy—because it keeps people stuck.

There’s no “perfect” layout. No “correct” way to hang art. No “must” for what size rug you have to use.

Design is personal. It’s trial and error. It’s about how the space makes you feel.
And if something doesn’t work? You move it, change it, or try again. That’s all part of the fun.

So... What’s Holding You Back?

If any of these myths have stopped you from decorating your space, I hope you feel more free now. You don’t need permission to create a home you love. Just start—move something, try a new color, hang up that piece you’ve been hiding in a drawer.

Let’s Bust More Myths Together!

Have you heard a design rule that makes you hesitate? Or tried something “wrong” that turned out amazing?
Tell me! I’d love to hear your story or see your space.
Let’s keep the conversation going and help more people create homes that truly feel like them.

Ester White Gherea is an Interior Designer and the founder of Gherea Studios.
She can be reached at 236-339-6644 or estergherea@gmail.com. Connect with Ester on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ester-white-gherea-6b339a2b5/. Connect with Ester at https://www.ghereastudio.com/.

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