Style Killers: 5 Things Making Your Space Look Cheap (And What to Do Instead)

A good space can be undone by design choices that feel cheap—and too often, we’re the ones making them. Here are 5 common style killers to avoid—and 5 easy swaps to make your space shine.

Excessive Fluted Panels (Red Toned)

Contemporary design has become almost synonymous with the rise of fluted paneling—whether it’s made from PVC, wood, or metal, and used on both interior and exterior surfaces. Walls, ceilings, posts—you name it. Fluted panels are everywhere, though it's a go-to remedy for bare surfaces, it isn't always the most thoughtful choice, and can sometimes cheapen the overall look of a space. 

If you're considering fluted panels for your home, remember, they’re not meant to simply fill blank spaces. Thoughtless repetition can water down their impact and overshadow the more intentional elements of your design. 

Design is all about purpose. Before incorporating any element, consider what it adds to the overall value of your space.

Alternative

A great alternative to fluted panels is wainscoting—decorative wall treatments designed to frame and enhance specific sections of a wall. Originating in 16th-century England, wainscoting is a timeless design element that has truly stood the test of time.

Plastic Roller Blinds

Roller blinds are a type of window treatment designed to provide privacy and sun protection as part of your home. While they’re often a budget-friendly choice, many—especially those made from PVC—tend to look as inexpensive as they cost. They can appear bulky and often clash with both wall finishes and other window treatments. They occupy a significant visual area in our homes, so their impact on the overall aesthetic is hard to ignore.

Alternative

While not as common, Roman blinds hold their ground as a timeless choice that never goes out of style. Considered a classic in the design world, they’re known for their clean, tailored lines, soft texture, and ability to blend seamlessly with other elements without overpowering the space. They strike the perfect balance between beauty and functionality.

Of course curtains are always a top choice, so wherever they fit that's our top choice!

Perimeter Furniture Layout

A perimeter furniture layout—or wall-oriented placement—happens when pieces are intentionally arranged along the sides of a room, typically aligned with the walls. Think of a sofa with its back pushed up against the wall. This approach can be practical for smaller spaces where floor area is limited.

However, in terms of design, it often comes with more drawbacks than benefits. When all furniture is pushed to the edges, it can create an imbalance in visual weight. The central space—where a focal point would typically be—is left underutilised, making the room feel empty or disconnected. This layout also disrupts flow and zoning, making it harder to define distinct areas.

Alternative

When furniture is arranged around a central point, it naturally draws the eye inward—creating a clear focal area and adding purpose to the overall layout. This setup is especially ideal for spaces where interaction matters, as it defines zones that foster intimacy and encourage conversation. 

By distributing furniture more evenly throughout the room, you create visual balance that makes the space feel more harmonious. It also opens up opportunities for creative styling. For example, instead of placing a sofa flat against a wall, you can bring it forward and place a console behind it. This adds visual layering and gives the room a more intentional, curated look.

Erin Zamuco

Designer at Bethel Interiors