The Interior Design Trend Queer Eye's Bobby Berk Avoids At All Costs

One of the best parts of interior design is how it brings in so many perspectives. These perspectives and opinions can help shape your own interior design style. Interior designers will often tell you about the trends they love and would put in their own homes and the ones they aren't so fond of and would rather leave at the store. For Bobby Berk from "Queer Eye," the trend he avoids is simple: word art. "I would never use generic word art," Berk explains in a TikTok video about things he would avoid as a celebrity interior designer. "The secret ingredient ... it's not word art."

These word art pieces are often found at craft stores like Hobby Lobby and home retailers like Target. They can be generic, themed for specific rooms in the house, or used as holiday decorations. Regardless of how you use it and where many people agree that word art is kind of cliche and cheesy. The words often send a clear message, whether cheeky or inspiring, and that doesn't leave much room for emotion or thoughtfulness the way other art does. A piece of art like a painting or a photograph can be much more evocative, thought-provoking, and memorable. It can also be an easy way to infuse some personality into your space. However, there is a much greater chance for a friend or neighbor to have a similar, or even the same, piece of word art.

Bobby Berk avoids using word art in his designed spaces. "[I]nstead I would use a collection of different types of art," Berk explains via TikTok. "Some, like painted art, some photography ... some wood pieces ... but just not words." Having a mix of art styles and mediums makes your space look more visually interesting. Layering different kinds of art will make the room look much less cookie-cutter. Plus, you can use this art to bring color and character to your room.

One reason many people word art is because it's easily accessible; you're often able to find it while shopping, even if you aren't looking for it. Looking for other art kinds of art pieces can be a challenge, but it's worth the effort in the end. Choosing the perfect artwork for your home just requires knowing where to look. The best place to start is in person, so visit art galleries, antique stores, and local markets to find unique pieces. Look for artists selling their work online, either on platforms or on their own websites. You can also have family photographs professionally printed and framed to use as artwork.

When it comes to choosing a work of art, you want to consider the ambiance of the room and how the piece will contribute to the mood. Something bright and vibrant may work better in a lively living room, while something calming and mellow works better in a bedroom.