Design Myths We’re Leaving Behind
Safe works for seat belts—not for design.
After decades in this industry, I can tell you that the most beautiful spaces are rarely born from following the rules. They come from curiosity, intuition, and the courage to challenge what’s been done before.
Every year, I hear the same so-called “truths” about how to design a home. Some are well-intentioned. Others are just outdated. But they all share one thing in common—they limit creativity.
So let’s set the record straight. These are the design myths I’m officially leaving behind in 2025—and what intelligent, timeless design really looks like instead.
Myth #1: “Neutral Means Boring.”
You might be surprised to hear this from someone who loves color as much as I do—but neutral shouldn’t mean dull.
Neutrals are what allow us to breathe. They create balance, depth, and calm. A room with a thoughtful mix of tone, texture, and light can be every bit as dynamic as one with bold hues.
The secret? Contrast. A rough plaster wall next to a polished surface. Matte finishes beside subtle sheen. Natural fibers layered with metal or glass. Those quiet combinations create rhythm and energy without shouting for attention.
I always tell clients:
“Color makes a statement. Neutrals create a mood.”
It’s never about choosing one or the other—it’s about harmony. The most vibrant designs can be created using neutrals, as can the most peaceful designs. It’s all about the mix of rhythm and energy.
This room is anything but boring! All neutral colors, both light and dark, with a cocoon of wallpaper, allow the food and conversation to take center stage./Photo by Karen Palmer
Myth #2: “More Is Better.”
Luxury doesn’t live in abundance—it lives in intention. This doesn’t mean that every room needs to be minimalist. Even a maximalist room needs to be created with intention. A beautifully designed space isn’t the one with the most things in it. It’s the one where everything belongs. Each piece has purpose, and nothing competes for attention.
Editing is one of the most underrated design skills there is. Negative space isn’t empty—it’s essential. It’s what gives the eye time to appreciate form, texture, and proportion.
“If everything is emphasized, nothing stands out.”
True design is a conversation between elements. Let something be bold, and let something else whisper. That’s where elegance lives.
A minimalist countertop allows space for making coffee. Carefully curated shelves lean toward maximalism but are very intentional in the products used and the placement. The best of both worlds. /Photo by Karen Palmer
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Myth #3: “Trends Are the Goal.”
I love a good trend as much as anyone—it’s exciting to see new materials, palettes, and ideas surface every year. But chasing what’s current is not the same as designing what’s lasting. Trends can inspire, but they should never dictate. Intelligent design begins with the people who live in the space, not what’s circulating online.
The most successful rooms are rooted in feeling and authenticity. Maybe that means a dramatic pop of color or a serene tonal palette—but it should always reflect your story, not someone else’s.
“Design for living, not for likes.”
Because the truth is, good design still feels good ten years later.
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Black, white, and light wood are current trends. Here, we changed it up a bit with white quartz and porcelain, dark wood, and a touch of gold. (left)
Changing the floor to tile that mimics dark wood parquet creates a focal point in the tub area and allows the tub’s curves to stand out. (right)/Photo by Karen Palmer
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White quartz with gray veining has been trending. We chose white marble with brown and gold veining for a richer look and to complement the dark wood cabinets. The flooring under the tub was repeated in the shower to provide a solid base for the dancing tile./Photo by Karen Palmer
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Bonus Myth: “You Have to Start from Scratch.”
I’ve always believed that good design honors what came before it. Some of the most interesting spaces I’ve ever created began with a single beloved piece—an heirloom table, a favorite painting, even the bones of a room that just needed a fresh point of view. You don’t have to erase your home to reimagine it. You just have to see it differently.
“A great designer doesn’t erase. She refines.”
That’s where the magic happens—when you blend the past and present into something that feels completely, unmistakably yours.
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Existing bed, nightstands, and wallpaper stayed. Everything else was chosen to create a peaceful respite from the world. /Photo by Karen Palmer
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The Takeaway
Design is courage and clarity in equal measure. It’s knowing when to take a risk, when to show restraint, and when to listen to your intuition.
So as we move into 2025, I’m leaving these myths behind. Because homes should never be ruled by fear or formula. They should be shaped by curiosity, confidence, and a deep understanding of how you want to live.
If you’re ready to create a space that feels fearless, refined, and unmistakably you—let’s talk.
Your story deserves a space that reflects it. Schedule your consult today.
Existing breakfast table, existing breakfast chairs with new fabric, and existing leather chairs. New rug, coffee table, sofa, and accessories. Painting the fireplace wall deep eggplant pulls from the breakfast chair fabric. /Photo by Karen Palmer
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