The Property Brothers Say One Common Design Mistake Makes Homes Look Boring

Ever felt like your home décor could use a bit of a zhush? You're not alone. According to The Property Brothers, one design mistake that instantly tags your home as "blah" is the overuse of matchy-matchy elements. Yes, it's tempting to coordinate your curtains with your couch, and your cushions with your coffee table, but as Drew Scott told Good Housekeeping, "People think you have to match things in open floor plans. Matchy-matchy is really boring. Find things that complement [each other] and even [introduce] some nice contrast throughout the space to bring more personality."

Imagine stepping into a room where the sofa is the same shade of beige as the walls, the carpet, and even the lampshades. Or going into a bedroom where everything is just ... gray. Not very exciting, right? While conventional wisdom says that matching everything means you don't have to try and find things that "fit," this overly coordinated look can make a room feel stagnant and, dare we (and Drew and Johnathan) say, lifeless. It goes back to older, less adventurous times when everything adhered to a strict color script. 

The truth is the eye craves diversity, and when everything blends into the same tone, there's nothing left to capture interest or curiosity. While homes filled wall-to-wall with the same neutral color scheme might come off as sophisticated at first, it won't take long before they appear aged and dull. So, how do you escape the clutches of matchy-matchy and bring your home back to life? 

Starting off strong, using the red theory trend can introduce a sense of drama and excitement into any room. Known for its ability to evoke strong emotions, red can capture attention and break up the monotony of overly harmonious designs. Consider incorporating a red accent wall or red accessories like cushions, rugs, or artwork. This bold choice can invigorate a space and add a dynamic contrast to softer, more subdued hues.

Another vibrant solution is color drenching, which involves saturating a room in one main color and then sprinkling in pops of different colors to create a visually intriguing contrast. For example, if you have a room drenched in deep blue, add mustard yellow cushions or a splash of fuchsia through a few decor pieces. The contrast not only prevents the room from feeling one-dimensional but also adds a playful and contemporary twist.

Finally, highlighting distinctive designs or textures is another sure-fire way to avoid the matchy-matchy trap. Go for a statement piece that stands out — a velvet emerald green sofa in a neutral room, a rustic wooden coffee table in a contemporary setting, or a uniquely patterned armchair. These elements bring in texture and complexity, inviting the eye to explore different layers within the space. By following these tips, you can break free from the monotony of overly coordinated designs and create spaces that are not only cohesive but also captivating. Remember, while harmony is essential, so is a bit of daring and deviation — plus, it adds a bit of fun!