I’m an interior design expert – 6 things making your home look cheap

WHILE some people opt to decorate their homes in classic and timeless styles, others prefer something a little more eccentric.

But if you’re looking to renovate your , then you may just want to take note…because according to one interior design expert, there are six trends that are at risk of making your house look cheap.

Speaking exclusively to Fabulous Digital, Jim Evans of & Design By Uber, has shared the top trends he’d advise everyone to avoid – and it’s not good news if you’re a fan of glitter or crushed velvet…

ALL THINGS GLITTERY

Jim begins by warning: “Glittery ornaments and cushions in abundance just overload the senses – like walking into a pound shop.”

He goes on to say that crushed velvet fabric and diamante-lined mirrors may seem “luxurious” at first glance, but notes they can “quickly become gaudy and OTT.”

Sharing his top styling tips, he advises: “Elegance needs to be understated, especially in smaller rooms.”

CLUTTER

According to the whizz, clutter is and always will be the number one thing to make a room look “cheap, tacky, and unwelcoming.”

He continues: “I’m not saying you have to embrace minimalism, but thinking about how a room is spaced is so important – showcase your furniture, don’t lump it in haphazardly.

Glittery ornaments and cushions in abundance just overload the senses – like walking into a pound shop

Jim EvansUber Interiors

“When you have more sofas than floor space you’re left navigating a maze when you should be relaxing – and you’re guests will feel just the same way.”

FLATPACK FURNITURE

Jim explains that flatpack furniture is another hindrance when it comes to making a room look “affluent.”

“It has its uses but when a room is designed with nothing else, it can get a bit samey,” he explains.

“Everyone will know where you bought it from, and how easy it is to replicate.”

He goes on to say that you’ll end up with a room that’s identical to a showroom and “lacking personality.”

WALL ART

Speaking of personality, Jim advises that when it comes to art and wall hangings, “think original!”

He explains: “Hanging a keep calm and carry-on sign in your living room isn’t going to set you apart as an individual.”

Instead, the pro recommends using paintings, carpet hangings, and artwork that means something to you.

“It will ultimately come across as more upscale and interesting to visitors,” he says. “Avoid brands, logos, and slogans (unless they’re your own)!

“Live, Laugh, Love; Keep Calm & {insert slogan here}; Eat, Pray, Love are all nice slogans.

“However, when stuck up in neon on a living room wall they just look like they’ve come from a home bargain store.”

ILL-FITTING CURTAINS

The interior design expert also points out that curtains can make a big difference.

“Hanging curtains improperly or haphazardly will ultimately cheapen a room,” Jim explains.

“Always get a professional who can make a window treatment look the way it should.”

He advises aiming for long curtains over short – adding that a long properly fitted curtain brings a “touch of elegance” to the room, whereas short curtains make a room look unfinished.

“Think formal slacks over board shorts,” Jim adds.

MISMATCH COLOURS

And last but not least, the interior design guru suggests diligence over the choice of colours in a room.

“A feature wall is always a showstopper, but having it stand alongside mismatching colour choices for the surrounding furniture and art will have an overbearing effect,” he says.

“Too much colour is a bad thing, try not to make your room look like a disco floor!”