Interior decor to avoid that will instantly make a home ‘look cheap and tacky’

Interior decor to avoid that will instantly make your home ‘look cheap and tacky’ (Image: Getty) There are plenty of ways to make a home look expensive without the high price tag.  The secret to achieving an expensive look for a home isn’t actually rooted in the amount being spent. In fact, when it comes to making a home look expensive, less is often more.  ConservatoryLand  has collaborated with interior expert Sylvia James of HomeHow to warn households on decor they are adding to their home that makes them look cheap. Old windows  Windows are an important part of a home’s exterior. They can add style, curb appeal, and energy efficiency. If windows are old, outdated, or damaged, it may be time to consider replacing them. The designer said: ‘Older windows can make your home look cheap.’ Sylvia explained that the style of your windows should complement the overall style of a home. She said: ‘If you have a traditional home, choose traditional windows. If you have a modern home, choose modern windows.  Older windows can make your home look cheap (Image: Getty) ‘If your windows complement the theme of your home, they will look more aesthetically pleasing and less tacky.’ Replacing windows can be a big investment, but it can also be a wise investment. New windows can improve the look, feel, and energy efficiency of a home. They can also ‘increase your home’s value’. Using matching flatpack furniture A room filled with matching flatpack furniture ‘can look cheap and tacky’ as this is often mass-produced and ‘lacks any unique design or character’. It can also be ‘flimsy and poorly made and may not last long’. For those on a tight budget, consider buying second-hand furniture instead. Second-hand furniture can be just as stylish and functional as new furniture, and it is often much cheaper.  A room filled with matching flatpack furniture ‘can look cheap and tacky’ (Image: Getty) When buying second-hand furniture, be sure to inspect it carefully for any damage. Households may also want to have it refinished or upholstered to give it a new look. Rattan decor Rattan furniture has been a popular trend in interior design for the past few years. However, the trend seems to be waning in popularity.  Sylvia claimed: ‘Some people find that too much rattan can be overwhelming and tacky. Rattan is now being used more as an accent piece rather than a focal point.’ For those considering buying rattan furniture, it’s important to think about how it will fit into the overall decor of a home. However, if the home is already quite busy, rattan furniture may be ‘too much’. Chevron patterns can be ‘overwhelming and distracting’ if used in large doses (Image: Getty) Chevron patterns became popular in UK homes around five years ago. However, this design can be ‘overwhelming and distracting’ if used in large doses.  For those who have chevron patterns in their home, it may be time to consider replacing them with something less distracting. The interior designer explained: ‘There are many ways in which chevron patterns can be distracting and overwhelming.  ‘They can be visually heavy and make a room feel smaller. They can also be too busy and may compete with other elements in the room.’