5 Interior Design Myths Debunked

With a seemingly endless supply of interior design tips and trends available online, tackling a home makeover can feel overwhelming. Ever-changing design fads and conflicting advice make the process tricky to navigate, whether you’re working with an interior designer or transforming your space on your own.

Here at Studio Howes, we strive to make the interior design process simpler and more transparent by debunking common design myths and misconceptions. Here are the top five misconceptions we encounter:

 

Myth 1 : Interior design is only for the super-wealthy.

One of the most common misconceptions about interior design is that it’s only available to the ultra-affluent. At Studio Howes, we believe that great design should be accessible to everyone, and our cost-conscious interior design service delivers thoughtful, personalised spaces without compromising on style or quality.

Alongside our bespoke FF&E schemes and consultancy services, we also offer convenient furniture packages. Ideal for landlords or homeowners seeking a quick and personalised furnishing solution, these bring style and comfort to your home on a budget, and in as little as six weeks.

 

Myth 2: Furnishings must match.

Last year, House & Garden declared the death of the three-piece suite, heralding the era of artfully mismatched furniture in its wake. Gone are the days of matching armchairs and perfectly coordinated cushions; blending different materials, textures, and finishes creates a more dynamic and timeless space.

Instead of sticking to one uniform look, choose items of furniture and decor that truly speak to you. By layering these elements over time, you’ll naturally build a home that feels curated and personal. A thoughtful mix of materials and styles adds depth and character, ensuring your space remains both stylish and enduring.

 

Myth 3: You should only use one tone of wood.

Another interior design decree that belongs firmly in the past is that wood should be a single tone. At Studio Howes, we believe that blending different wood tones is an art that brings depth and character to a space. Mixing finishes can create a harmonious, layered look that feels intentional and curated.

Instead of striving for a perfect match between furniture and flooring, embrace contrast and individuality – as shown in the furniture, flooring and joinery for our South London Townhouse project. Pieces with varied finishes can balance a room’s aesthetic, adding warmth and visual interest. The result is a considered, inviting space that tells a unique story – one that feels collected, not decorated.

 

Myth 4: Bigger furniture makes a room feel smaller.

In the past, those of us living in compact period properties or bijou apartments may have shied away from buying large items of furniture, favouring smaller pieces that sat neatly in the space.

While it’s important to consider proportion and what suits your space, a statement piece of furniture can be far more impactful than multiple smaller ones. A generously sized sofa, for example, can create a sense of openness by drawing the eye to a focal point, making the room feel more expansive – as with the large, U-shaped sofa in our Battersea Power Station project. The key is to balance larger furniture with minimal accessories and an open layout to maintain a clean, uncluttered aesthetic.

 

Myth 5: Interior design is easy.

 

Interior design may seem effortless, but it’s a complex discipline that requires a deep understanding of design principles, space planning, and materials. Becoming a skilled interior designer takes years of training, experience, and a refined eye for detail.

 

At Studio Howes, our skilled and experienced team has the expertise to ensure every space is thoughtfully designed, seamlessly functional, and uniquely tailored to your lifestyle. If you’re considering an interior design project and you’d like to discuss it with us, get in touch!