Our decorating knowledge stems from a variety of sources. Sometimes, it’s intuitive. Other times, it’s from the years of perusing home and garden magazines at our dentist’s office.

Just because something strikes us as “trendy”, however, doesn’t necessarily make it quality interior design. In fact, there are a variety of home decor faux pas committed on a daily basis, many of which we may not even notice.

Here are the top decorating mistakes homeowners fall victim to — and how to avoid them.

#1) Too many tabletop picture frames.

You’ve probably noticed this at your nana’s house the most. The end tables scattered with picture frames, each featuring loved ones. We certainly don’t suggest you toss all of these out, just that you repurpose them.

The best way to display a collection of photos is with a gallery wall. In your entryway or in a hallway, display each treasured photo in a wall frame instead of a tabletop frame. This eliminates the clutter that tabletop frames create while concentrating all the memories and photos in one place.

#2) Too-small area rug.

It’s right in the name. An area rug should encompass, well, an area. So, what happens when an area rug appears to just be floating purposelessly in the middle of a room?

It looks extremely awkward. An area rug should touch, even just slightly, each of the objects surrounding it — be they ottomans or chairs. You could bring the furniture in, but this would likely create empty space around the edges of the room. So, instead, grab a tape measure and ensure you choose an area rug big enough to cover 70% of the space in that room.

#3) Over-simplifying.

It is possible to take minimalism too far. We should all downsize and de-clutter, but to what extent? A little bit of aesthetic clutter can be appealing. A space should look lived-in, not like a sterile environment.

Lay some magazines out on the coffee table, drape a throw over your sofa, accent with some decorative cushions and pillows. In other words, get a little creative with the clutter! Just make sure it’s artful and complements your remaining decor.

#4) Over-matching.

A little bit of an eclectic style can really spice up a room. Nobody wants a space that’s all-white or all-gray. Matching too much can make a room seem monotone and boring.

Colorful pieces, particularly in easy-on-the-eye hues like earth tones or neutrals, can really make a room stand out.

#5) Choosing style over comfort.

Metal, skeletal chairs may look cool in the magazines, but they don’t really do much for practicality. This does mean you have to opt for a clunky La-Z-Boy armchair, just that comfort trumps vogue.

Some upholstered, plush pieces can never hurt and will give your interior design a warm and inviting look. Seating shouldn’t be uncomfortable, it will hinder your guests’ ability to appreciate the decorative prowess of your home.

Opt for an upholstered Thonet bentwood chair for your dining room, or perhaps a modern lounge chair to soften up the look, while keeping it trendy.