1. Exposed lightbulbs
People think they look trendy and industrial.
They look like you can’t afford lampshades.
(Although the main reason I hate them is because they irritate my eyes.)
Better: Literally any lamp with a shade.
The important part here is not the style, but the soft, soothing glow.
2. Open shelving
Are you human? Does your skin shed and turn to dust?
If not, these things are for you!

Better: Cabinets.

3. Tall, narrow bookshelves
People think they make the room look taller.
Forbes says:
“By using tall, skinny bookshelves that go to the ceiling, you draw the eye upward and create the illusion of height.”[1]
This is a lie.
Tall bookshelves actually make the room feel cramped, like the books could topple onto your head at any moment.
Instead of vertical lines, you want to create horizontal lines across the bookshelves.
Better: A book wall in one color.

Best: Low bookshelves.

4. Anything with words on it
It’s twee, sentimental, cutesy:
And worse, telling me what to do:
Please die.
5. Flouncy, patterned fabric
(Plus too much decorative crap)

Basically, anywhere Umbridge would feel at home.

Better: Room to breathe.
Notes
[1] Gillian Lazanik, “13 Ways To Make A Room Seem Taller.” Forbes.com/sites/houzz/2015/09/11/13-ways-to-make-a-room-seem-taller/?sh=149f95bc6193.
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