Living in the vibrant NYC Tri-State area offers access to historic architecture, dynamic urban lifestyles, and diverse home layouts. But designing or renovating a New York City home brings unique challenges. Whether you're updating a Brooklyn brownstone, refining a Manhattan condo, or refreshing a pre-war co-op on the Upper West Side, avoiding common interior design mistakes is essential.
At LSB Interior, we help homeowners across the NYC metro area create interiors that are not only beautiful but also functional and timeless. Below, we share the top five interior design mistakes NYC homeowners should avoid, and the smart solutions that will help you get it right.
One of the most frequent interior design mistakes in New York homes is failing to account for storage. Space is limited, and without proper planning, clutter can accumulate quickly, diminishing both aesthetics and livability.
Smart Solution: Integrate custom built-ins, hidden storage, and space-saving furniture. Use vertical wall space, under-bed storage, and dual-purpose pieces like ottomans with compartments. Our designers specialize in maximizing function without sacrificing style.
Lighting is often overlooked during the design process, yet it plays a critical role in how a space feels. Many NYC apartments have high ceilings, older layouts, or limited natural light, which can make single light fixtures feel cold and ineffective.
Smart Solution: Use a layered lighting approach with ambient, task, and accent lighting. Install dimmers to control mood and functionality. Highlight architectural features with wall sconces, under-cabinet LEDs, and pendant lights. Effective lighting design can make even basement-level spaces feel bright and welcoming.
Renovating a New York City property often means dealing with complex building codes, board approvals, and time restrictions. Overlooking these can lead to delays, fines, or costly rework.
Smart Solution: Hire an interior designer experienced in NYC codes and regulations. At LSB Interior, we handle board approvals, coordinate with contractors, and plan around co-op and condo policies to keep your project running smoothly.
Oversized sofas and bulky furniture can look appealing in showrooms or online, but they rarely work in tight NYC layouts. One of the most common interior design mistakes is buying furniture without measuring your space.
Smart Solution: Prioritize modular, multi-functional furniture that fits your floor plan. Measure doorways, hallways, and elevators before purchasing. We help clients select stylish, space-conscious pieces that enhance flow without overcrowding.
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While it’s tempting to follow the latest design trends, doing so can make your home feel dated within a few years. In NYC, where many homes feature unique architectural details, mismatched trends can disrupt the space’s character.
Smart Solution: Focus on creating timeless interiors that reflect your personality and your home's architectural charm. Choose classic materials and neutral palettes, and layer in trends through accessories or accent pieces. We craft interiors that feel current but will stand the test of time.
LSB Interior specializes in designing refined, functional living spaces for NYC and Tri-State homeowners. Whether you’re renovating a historic brownstone, redesigning a downtown condo, or refreshing a co-op apartment, our experienced team delivers tailored solutions that avoid common interior design mistakes and elevate your home.
Let us help you create a space that reflects your lifestyle and respects the unique challenges of New York City living.
Contact LSB Interior today to schedule your consultation.
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