We Asked Our Colleagues to Share Their Biggest Interior Design Icks

Interior design pet peeves, straight from us.

Just like fashion and beauty, interior design is completely subjective. What looks good to someone can be the complete opposite to another – just take a look at the age-old debate of minimalism and maximalism, for example.

But subjectivity aside, we were still curious about the design choices that people simply cannot get behind. So, we asked around the office, and here’s what our colleagues said:

1. Extravagant marble designs

A common feature in modern luxury homes, marble-look surfaces are the go-tos for a sophisticated, high-end look. But in the age where quiet luxury reigns supreme, some homeowners find it too extravagant – or, as our colleague Sara bluntly puts it, “very obiang”.

Instead, more homeowners are leaning towards materials with subtler designs – think quartz, sintered stone, and laminates – with gentler veining that can still give the home a polished look without being too over-the-top.

2. Curves/arches

Curves and arches have seen a resurgence in the 2020s due to their eye-catching and ergonomic design – but with the trend making an appearance in one too many homes, it’s unsurprising that homeowners are getting tired of it.

From arched doorways to curved niches, what was once a striking feature in spaces dominated by clean lines has now lost its charm.

3. Ugly furniture

Homeowners spend a lot of time and effort ensuring that their renovations turn out nicely, so it’s a pity when the furniture they buy doesn’t match.

Whether it looks cheaply made, mismatched styles, or designs that clash with the overall aesthetic, poorly-chosen furniture is enough to mess up the look. As our colleague Jocelyn puts it, “it’s sad when a few ugly pieces mess up what you spent thousands to build”.

4. Bulky TV feature walls

TV feature walls are a tried-and-tested way to add a striking accent to a home, but when you’re living in a tiny BTO flat, something bulky – like thick display shelves – can risk making the home feel cramped and boxed-in.

In fact, this is why more homeowners are opting for simpler setups. Think wall-mounted TVs paired with sleek consoles and a backdrop swathed in paint or panelling – an easy way to keep the space open without incurring extravagant carpentry costs.

5. Exposed piping and trunking

While they look right at, ahem, home in an industrial- or retro-style space, exposed piping and trunking are huge eyesores. Our colleague Lucas even admitted that he would willingly spend thousands to conceal them – to him, it mars the overall design of the home.

If you’re planning to conceal your piping and trunking as well, note that you’ll need to leave an access opening of at least 600mm in height and width to ensure easy access during inspections and repairs.

Explore: 9 HDB Renovation Works That Are Actually Illegal (and to Avoid)

6. Limewash everywhere

If there’s a trend that’s taken the interior design world by storm, it’s limewash. Loved for their ability to add texture and depth, this form of textured paint is especially popular in homes with organic, natural looks (which are especially trendy at time of writing).

But as with most trends, not everyone’s on board with it. Several people we spoke to felt that it’s overused – particularly in homes where every ceiling and wall is swathed in it. “In some extreme examples, it can look like a mud hut,” our colleague Farhana puts it.

7. Overly bright white lights

Lighting is the unsung hero of a home, but while bright white lights are great for visibility, they don’t do much for your space and ambience. Our colleague, Melinda, likens the effect to “the kind you’d find in a hospital, since it’s so harsh.”

Warm or neutral lighting, on the other hand, tends to create a cosier, more inviting atmosphere – in fact, this is the type of lighting homeowners are increasingly leaning towards.

8. Neutral colours with wood

In a time where wabi sabi design is everywhere, it’s hard to ignore how so many homes have adopted the same look – neutral colours like grey and beige paired with wood tones.

While loved for that natural look, it’s also so commonly done that people are tired of it. What was once an earthy, organic alternative to bright all-white spaces has now become “just another one in a sea of similar-looking homes,” as said by our colleague Glenda.

To sum up

While these are our personal interior design icks, there’s nothing wrong if you happen to love them. After all, design preferences vary from person to person, and your home should ultimately reflect what you love.

If you’re still figuring out what your own style looks like, Qanvast can help. Get matched with 3-5 reliable interior designers who can bring your vision to life – for free! Simply complete the form below to proceed: