Alfie’s Faux Pas
4 things this Knoxville interior designer notices immediately
As interior designers, we’re trained to spot the details that most people might overlook. When our founder, Alfie, walks into a home, there are a few things she notices instantly—details that can make or break the overall look and feel of a space. From window treatments to rugs, these elements might seem small, but they play a significant role in the harmony and quality of your home’s design. If you’re looking to elevate your space, understanding what stands out to a professional can help guide you toward making impactful changes. Here are a few of the most common design faux pas that Knoxville interior designers like Alfie notice immediately.
1. Improper Window Treatments
Curtains that are too short and not substantial enough leave a space looking unfinished.
Custom window treatments that just touch the ground and hang at ceiling height will make short ceilings look taller.
One of the first things Alfie will assess is the window treatments. Curtains, or drapes, are an essential part of any room, but they can also be a quick indicator of whether a space has been thoughtfully designed or not. According to Alfie, “If your window treatments are on grommets, that’s probably going to change once you bring me into your life.”
Grommet curtains might be fine in a child’s bedroom, but they often lack the elegance and sophistication required for more formal spaces. Another common mistake? Curtains that are too short, too long, too skimpy, or simply don’t suit the scale of the window. “It has been said that I’m a window treatment snob, and it’s true,” says Alfie, adding that she is passionate about high-quality, well-made window treatments that fit perfectly.
As experienced Knoxville interior designers, we understand the importance of high-quality drapery that fits perfectly and adds elegance to a room. Custom window treatments can instantly elevate your home and make it feel more polished. If your drapes are falling short—literally—it might be time to invest in a professional’s touch.
2. Rugs That Don’t Fit the Space
Your rug should sit beneath at least the front legs of your furniture. This room shows an improper rug size.
A properly sized rug will ground your room and elevate the space.
Another major design element Alfie quickly notices is the rug. Whether it’s too small, too large, or simply doesn’t suit the grandeur of the space, an inappropriate rug can detract from the overall aesthetic of your home. In some homes, particularly larger or more luxurious properties, a cheap, machine-made rug can clash with the elegance of its surroundings. Alfie points out that a $4,000,000 home with a $400 rug under a stunning dining table is a mismatch that stands out immediately.
The key is to make sure your rug not only fits the space in terms of size but also aligns with the room’s style and quality. A custom or handwoven rug that complements the design can tie everything together. If your rug is undersized or lacks the quality to match the rest of your décor, Knoxville interior designers like Alfie will notice—and recommend an upgrade that fits the space perfectly.
3. Lampshades That Fall Short
Your lamps and their shades should be appropriately sized for the space
It might not be the first thing you think of, but lampshades are another detail that Alfie hones in on as soon as she enters a room. “I love great lamps,” she says, and rightfully so. Lamps can be a statement piece, bringing light and style into a room. However, if the lampshades are poorly made, have large seams, or are too starkly bright, they can detract from the entire look.
Alfie mentions that she frequently notices overly bright white lampshades that don’t fit with the overall color scheme of the room. As discerning Knoxville interior designers will tell you, even something as small as a lampshade can make or break a room’s design. Replacing those poorly fitting or overly bright lampshades with custom, high-quality ones can bring a subtle yet impactful improvement to your space.
4. Mismatched Quality Between Furniture and Décor
One final detail Alfie often notices is when there’s a disconnect between the quality of furniture and the décor. For instance, you might have a beautiful, antique dining table but paired with inexpensive, mass-produced items like a low-quality rug or chairs. Alfie explains, “You want the expectation to meet the reality of what you’re coming into.”
In high-end homes, everything from the rugs to the accessories should reflect the level of investment you’ve made in your space. For this reason, Knoxville interior designers like Alfie place a strong emphasis on ensuring the entire room feels cohesive and balanced in both style and quality.
Final Thoughts: Elevating Your Home with the Right Details
The truth is, small details can make a big difference in how your home feels and functions. From the fit of your window treatments to the quality of your rugs and lampshades, each element plays a part in the overall design. That’s why professional Knoxville interior designers like Alfie have a keen eye for these details, helping homeowners elevate their spaces in ways they may never have thought possible.
If you’re noticing some of these design faux pas in your own home, it might be time to bring in a professional for a consultation. The team at Rowan Hall Interiors is ready to help you refine your space, making sure every detail is perfectly in place. Whether you’re ready for a full design overhaul or just need advice on those tricky details, our team of Knoxville interior designers is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to get started!
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