Ep. 357: Common Design Mistakes with Minhnuyet Hardy

How to Decorate

Atlanta-based interior designer Minhnuyet Hardy joins us this week to discuss common interior design mistakes and how to avoid them. Minhnuyet shares her expertise on proper rug sizing and orientation, as well as drapery width, hardware placement, and lining importance. She gives some great tips for measuring spaces and hanging artwork at the ideal height, pesky furniture delivery challenges, accessorizing with trays, and grouping small items.

Follow along with this week's decorating dilemma here on the How to Decorate Blog.

What You’ll Hear On This Episode:

• Common rug size mistakes and how to properly size and orient rugs.
• Custom rug options for unique spaces.
• Drapery hardware placement and width considerations.
• Hanging drapery too low or not having it wide enough.
• Proper artwork hanging height and placement tips.
• Furniture delivery challenges in tight spaces.
• Why the tallest person in the house shouldn’t be the one hanging artwork.
• Accessorizing with trays and grouping small items.

Also Mentioned:

• Ballard Designs
• Minhnuyet Hardy
• Watch the Full Episode - Ballard Designs YouTube
• Minhnuyet Hardy Interiors
• @minhnuyethardyinteriors

Decorating Dilemma:

Hi Amy Lynn! Thank you so much for your question - this is a great question. Here are some suggestions:

First, painting the mantel trim the same color as the wall will help create a cohesive backdrop that draws the eye to your artwork. We would stack larger art pieces on the mantel that lean against the wall, layering smaller pieces in front. A large mirror with art displayed in front would also look very striking. Additionally, placing some birch logs inside the fireplace will add visual interest year-round. You could also consider stringing battery-operated twinkle lights during the holidays for a festive touch. We hope these ideas help highlight your beautiful original fireplace mantel! Also, be sure to check out our Essential Stocking Holder, it will be sleek and is great for kids!