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There’s a reason why Aoife Tobin’s TikTok videos have more than a million views. Sure, it could be her lovely Irish accent (which reminds us, we still have an episode of Bad Sisters in our queue of shows to watch). But it’s more likely the calm, nonjudgmental way she describes the design mistakes she’s made, so you don’t make them, too. Like, it’s okay if you’re not in on the secret. That’s exactly why she’s sharing. Whether it’s a too-small rug that throws off a whole room or lighting that’s more interrogation than invitation, Tobin has seen it all—and made peace with it. Her videos are part confessional, part tutorial, and all delivered with an easygoing charm that makes you want to sit up, take notes, and laugh a little at your own design blooper reel. With that in mind, we asked the designer behind the firm Style So Simple to break it down for us, revealing her top mistakes, the lessons she’s learned, and the foolproof fixes she suggests.
Buying a Too-Small Rug
If your coffee table is sitting on a rug island in the middle of your living room, you’re not alone. Why do so many people buy too-tiny rugs? It comes down to the cost and hesitations about measurements, Tobin says. People are often surprised at how much a large rug actually costs, and they’re also nervous that a large rug will overwhelm the space. “The way it should be: a rug is to create an area or a zone. You want all those pieces of furniture in that zone touching the rug,” Tobin says. “A good tip is keeping the front two feet of each piece of furniture on the rug.”
Hanging Art Way Too High
You shouldn’t have to crane your neck to see a piece of art. As a rule, keep it within the same visual frame as your furniture, Tobin says: “Keep it close to the bed, credenza, dresser, or sofa for cohesion.”
Living With Harsh Lighting
By now, you’ve probably seen a meme about never using “the big light,” a.k.a. overhead lighting. According to Tobin, spotlights have the same harsh effect. Instead, switch it up with multiple light sources. “Three layers of lighting is the magic number. Whether it’s a pendant light, wall light, and table lamp—or another combination—you want options for reading, chilling, and working,” she says.
Falling for Fast Interior Design
Before you click “add to cart,” ask yourself if the item will really work with your design scheme now—and a year from now. “Interiors aren’t like fast fashion. You want a space that feels timeless and intentional,” says Tobin. “A well-thought-out home means you won’t feel the need to change it in a year or two.”
Overwhelming a Space With Heavy Furniture
How much of your furniture is on lofty legs or sits on the ground? A mix is the most aesthetically appealing. “If you have a sofa that goes to the ground, balance it with accent chairs or a coffee table on legs. Mixing grounded and elevated pieces avoids making the space feel too heavy or cluttered.”