Before Renovating a House, Avoid These 7 Interior Design Mistakes

YOGYAKARTA - Renovating a house often feels like a fresh start. You imagine a cleaner kitchen, a warmer living room, or a bathroom that feels like a boutique hotel. But according to designers who share their experiences at House Beautiful, many renovation decisions actually end in regret because they are too focused on appearance and don't consider function. So that your home renovation is really a long-term investment, here are seven interior design mistakes that should be avoided from the start.

1. Too much captivated marble countertops

Marble does look elegant and luxurious, especially for the kitchen or bathroom. However, this material is quite easy to stain and scratch, especially if you are actively cooking every day. Many new homeowners realize how intense the care is after using it for some time. Alternatives such as engineered stone are often chosen because the look remains beautiful but is more resistant to stains and scratches.

2. The concept of open space without careful consideration

Open spaces without barriers do give the impression of being spacious and modern. Unfortunately, the sounds, smells of cooking, and different activities in one area can interfere with each other. Privacy is also a challenge, especially if you work from home or have children. Solutions such as flexible partitions or sliding doors can maintain a balance between openness and comfort.

Illustration of interior design mistakes that need to be understood before renovating a house (Freepik)3. Outdoor areas that are less protected

Having a sitting area outside the house feels ideal for relaxing or entertaining guests. However, without protection from heat, rain, or wind, this area is often rarely used. As a result, the space that has spent a considerable budget is not fully functional. Adding a roof, canopy, or shading element can make it more comfortable throughout the season.

4. Tiles that follow trends too much

The motif of the tiles that are currently popular does look attractive on social media. But the design that is too striking is at risk of quickly feeling outdated or making you bored. Replacing the tiles is not a simple matter and certainly requires additional costs. Therefore, many designers suggest choosing a more neutral color or motif, then playing accents through decorations that are easy to replace.

5. Using barn doors or shiplap without adjusting the style of the house

Elements such as barn doors and shiplap walls used to be a favorite in the farmhouse style. Although it looks unique, the two are not always suitable for modern or minimalist house architecture. In addition, barn doors are often less soundproof and shiplap is easy to collect dust. Adjusting the decorative elements to the character of the building will make the renovation results feel more harmonious.

6. Fully mirrored cabinet

Cabinets with clear glass doors can beautify the kitchen and give a light impression. However, if the contents inside are not always neatly arranged, the kitchen looks messy. Every equipment or packaging that is not aesthetically pleasing will be immediately visible. Alternatives such as frosted glass or textured glass can still give an elegant touch without displaying all the contents inside.

7. Shower without a door that is less controlled

The design of the shower without a door looks minimalist and modern. But the splash of water that spreads outside the shower area can make the floor quickly wet and slippery. Quoting House Beautiful, Tuesday, March 3, in the long run, excessive moisture is also at risk of damaging the surrounding elements. Adding a glass panel or repairing the drainage system can be a solution to stay aesthetic and safe.

Before the renovation of the house begins, it is important for you not only to pursue the current look, but also to think about its long-term function. Interior design mistakes often occur not because of lack of taste, but because of lack of planning. By understanding the seven points above, you can make wiser decisions and create a home that is not only beautiful to look at, but also comfortable to live in every day. Mature renovation is a renovation that does not leave regrets.