As the spookiest time of the year approaches, Halloween isn’t the only thing spooking homeowners.
In the wake of changing seasons, people often try to change their interiors, but the results can be frightening.
Kate Conrad, GB News’ resident interiors expert and senior stylist at luxury homewares brand Madison & Mayfair, tips people off about some of the potentially horrifying interior design mistakes that can haunt your home long after Halloween has passed. Our mission is to help people avoid this.
She said: “It’s important to remember that no matter how fashionable your interiors are, they can fall victim to common design mistakes that creep in when decorating for Halloween. It’s a great time to experiment, but there’s a fine line between stylish ghosts and decorative failures.
Here are Kate’s top tips for avoiding Halloween-themed interior design mistakes:
Don’t overdo seasonal decorations
“It’s easy to get carried away with pumpkins, skeletons and fake cobwebs, but overdoing it can turn your home into a cluttered nightmare.
“Instead of drowning your home in kitschy decor, think about something subtly sophisticated. A few black candles, metallic accents, or well-placed velvet textures can transform the cliché into a space. “You can create an eerie atmosphere without overpowering it,” advises Conrad.
avoid color clashes
“Orange may be the signature color of Halloween, but when combined with too many bold tones, it can clash badly with your home’s existing decor.
“Stick to a sophisticated palette. Charcoal, midnight blue, and deep plum can create a moody, mysterious atmosphere that blends beautifully into your interiors,” suggests Conrad.
Don’t ignore the power of lighting
“While dim lighting may scream ‘haunted house,’ the home still needs to have a cozy feel.
“Good lighting is key. Use soft ambient light to set a warm glow, and add a touch of Gothic charm by pairing it with statement pieces like black lampshades and antique-style lanterns. ”
don’t forget the details
“From outdated furniture placement to ungainly and mismatched furniture, overlooked elements can add chaos to a room.
“While it can be tempting to focus on Halloween decorations, it’s important to remember the basics: a thoughtful layout and cohesive furniture are key to maintaining the overall feel.
“Halloween decorations should be the perfect addition to an already beautifully decorated room, adding the perfect touch of seasonal charm to your home without taking center stage.
“Halloween is a chance to have fun with your decor, but you don’t have to sacrifice elegance,” says Conrad.
“With the right balance of décor and a few timeless pieces, you can create a memorable and beautiful space that reflects both your personality and your perfect style.”
