Too much matching furniture is the ultimate interior design sin: it shows a lack of creativity.
Good interior design may be subjective, but there are a number of common pitfalls that can give off the wrong impression. If you’re trying to design an office space that properly reflects your business’s style and brand, you’ll want to make sure that you avoid these costly mistakes. Here’s what you need to know.
Too Much Matching Furniture
Furniture that matches looks good, right? Not necessarily. Too much matching furniture in your office or business space will actually make it feel monotonous and too visually heavy — like a showroom. It also says that you don’t care enough to invest in a personal style for your brand. What’s the solution? Mix metals, furniture fabrics, and other textures and patterns so that your decor can stand out more. Remember, an eclectic mix of furniture doesn’t mean chaos — it can still be cohesive and consistent. A layered look is flawless.
Fake Flowers
Fake flowers might save you some money, but they’re tacky and will never come close to the true beauty of fresh flora. Fake flowers send the message that you’re cheap. There are actually quite a few plant varieties that are low maintenance. And if you must use fake flowers, please, keep them indoors!
Bad Wall Treatments
Decals and wall stickers are becoming more commonplace, and occasionally they can work. But frankly, most of the time they look awful. Ask yourself, are you trying to design an office/business space or a kid’s room? If you’re looking to add some color and texture to your space, wallpaper is a much more tasteful and sophisticated answer.
Lack of Color
Many modern designers mistakenly interpret minimalism to mean no color — only neutral tones. True minimalism, however, is about placing an emphasis on choice rather than the absence of color altogether. All-white and all-black rooms are authoritative, cold and uninviting. Instead, use neutral tones as a baseline for your other colors to pop.
Poor Cable Management
Cables are everywhere in today’s fast-paced, computer centric world. And they’re a giant eyesore! They’re also a huge fire hazard. Whenever possible, use wireless products or cable management systems. Camouflaging your cables with some colorful designs is also a great do-it-yourself project for the office. An office with good cable management isn’t just more productive — it signals that to customers and clients that you care about your image.
Office Furniture & Planning from Edwards & Hill
Need help choosing the right commercial furniture for your small business? Edwards & Hill can help you plan and install. Edwards and Hill is a leading office furniture supply and installation firm, able to install one cubicle with its applicable furnishings and computer hardware, yet equally adept at installing hundreds of cubicles, performing office relocation and reconfiguration services, including workstations, multiple offices, chairs, filing cabinets, and more. If you’re interested in talking to a professional about any of our services contact us at 301-317-4250. 1