Benji Lewis, a UK-based interior designer with 27 years of experience in luxury design, shares his top 10 interior design choices he'd never have in his own home. From accent walls to porcelain flooring, Lewis offers a unique perspective on what he considers outdated and impractical trends. He emphasizes the importance of personal touches and thoughtful design choices, advocating for a more curated and atmospheric approach to interior styling.
1. Accent Walls: A Missed Opportunity
Lewis advises against accent walls, particularly those with small floral patterns or geometric prints. He believes they can make a space feel unfinished or lack confidence. Instead, he suggests panoramic wallpapers, which create a statement without the need for multiple accent walls. These can be expensive, but they add an iconic touch to a room.
2. Personality in Kitchens
While fully fitted kitchens are practical, Lewis recommends adding a freestanding piece to inject character. He suggests an antique or mid-century item like a French armoire or an antique breakfast table as a kitchen island. This approach adds a personal touch and demonstrates thoughtfulness in design.
3. Open Shelving: A Curated Approach
Open shelving requires careful consideration of lighting, measurements, and dusting. Lewis advises designing the spacing between shelves based on the items you plan to display. This ensures a neat and curated look, avoiding the messiness that can occur without proper planning.
4. Floor Lighting: Discretion is Key
Statement floor lights can be impractical, according to Lewis. He prefers discreet, well-positioned lights that provide a subtle and chic ambiance. A floor lamp beside an armchair, for example, creates a smart and elegant lighting effect.
5. Vintage Branding: Move Beyond Clichés
Vintage branded signs and advertisements have become overused, says Lewis. He suggests opting for movie posters instead, using a spotlight to create a focal point. This approach adds a unique and less cliché touch to a space.
6. Retro Statement Pieces: Subdued Retro Vibes
Some retro statement pieces can be bulky and unappealing, making a space feel like a bachelor pad. Lewis recommends a more subdued approach, such as a mid-century sideboard with a sound system or record player, adding a cool retro vibe without overwhelming the space.
7. Wall Art: Less is More
Cheesy or inspirational wall art, like signs with affirmations, is not a trend Lewis follows. He believes in avoiding these pieces, as they can be unnecessary and overdone. A more minimalist approach to wall decor is preferred.
8. Porcelain Flooring: Opt for Alternatives
Porcelain flooring is not Lewis's choice, as it can be challenging to replace if cracked and may not absorb sound well. He favors linoleum flooring, which offers a range of interesting designs, such as checkerboard patterns, providing a more durable and aesthetically pleasing option.
9. Beanbags: Messy and Awkward
Beanbags are out, according to Lewis, as they can look messy and are awkward to use. He suggests tub chairs or other seating options that provide a more refined and comfortable experience.
10. Recessed Lighting: Zoned for Atmosphere
Recessed ceiling lights, or can lights, are best used sparingly, says Lewis. He advocates for zoned lighting, which can spotlight specific areas, creating a more atmospheric and gentle lighting effect. Dimmer switches can also be added for further customization.
Lewis's insights offer a fresh perspective on interior design, emphasizing the importance of personal touches, thoughtful planning, and a curated approach to creating a stylish and functional home.
