6 Underrated Design Ideas Interior Designers Want You to Try

There are thousands of ways to design a room, but the real challenge is creating something truly special. While we can find inspiration in the loud frenzy of trends taking the world by storm, some of the best design concepts and ideas are actually much quieter, more subtle, and often overlooked. But these small changes can have a major impact on the feel and aesthetics of a space. Here, designers share six underrated design ideas they want you to try in your own home.

Adding Molding to Plain Walls

According to Robin Baab Olascoaga, owner and principal designer at RMBO Studio, applying molding to plain walls can be game-changing. “This cost-effective technique can quickly transform your space from boring and basic to elevated, Parisian pied-à-terre chic,” she explains. “It can make a room feel more classic and traditional or even put a contemporary spin on a space.”

The designer also mentions that painting molding to match your walls or color drenching can create a sophisticated look. Don’t want to paint? Consider adding wallpaper instead.

Textiles as Wall Art

Olascoaga says using textiles as wall art is frequently overlooked. “For an interesting spin on wall decor, add a tapestry, blanket, rug, or even frame a beautiful piece of fabric you love,” she says. “It’s unexpected, adds a pop of color, pattern, and texture, and makes the room look chic and expensive.”

It’s also a fantastic way to display sentimental things like that knit blanket your grandmother made or that fabric you love but don’t know what to do with. Just be sure to have it beautifully framed because fabric simply tacked onto the wall will make your home look like a college dorm.

Interior Windows

While you might think of a window as just a way to let light into your home, an internal window can also be a cool choice. “A more interesting way to partition a room than the obvious wall or door is the internal window,” Olascoaga suggests. “It adds architectural detail, brings additional light into a room, and is an unexpected and charming addition to a space.”

Layered Lighting

Interior designer Amy Switzer reveals that when it comes to lighting, more is definitely more. “Layering different types of lighting—ambient, task, and accent—can dramatically alter the mood and functionality of a room,” ” she explains. “Instead of relying on a single overhead light, adding floor lamps, sconces, or under-cabinet lights brings depth and texture to a space.”

This will enhance both the visual appeal and usability, as people tend to forget how many different types of lights need to be layered into a room.”

Millwork Painted to Contrast a Wall

One of the most impactful yet overlooked design concepts is painting trim or molding in contrasting colors, such as black trim with white walls. This is also a smart way to create visual interest in a room that might not be all that exciting otherwise. “It frames the space, giving the room an architectural quality even if it lacks elaborate detailing,” Switzer says.

Wallpaper

According to Switzer, wallpaper instantly upgrades any wall, giving it major wow factor. This is particularly true for smaller rooms. “Designers often use wallpaper in small spaces like powder rooms or entryways to make a bold statement,” she says. “The idea is that small spaces can handle dramatic designs without feeling overwhelming.”

It’s also the perfect way to use a print, pattern, or color you’re drawn to but aren’t quite sure how to incorporate into your home. For example, while you might not want a butterfly print throughout your house, it can make a fun and creative addition to a home office, powder room, or hallway.