Plus, how to fix them.

But decorating it can be a challenge.

One misstep and the entire space feels thrown off.

living room with white couches and chairs

Photo:Robert Daly/Getty Images

So how can you design a living room that has the right balance of function and aesthetics?

Its easier to accomplish this goal when you know whatnotto do.

Here are five mistakes to avoid whendecorating your living room, according to interior designers.

When selecting furniture, it’s important to create balance, beauty, and excitement in the design.

For example, a coffee table, side tables, and credenza all from the same collection.

Avoid uncomfortable furniture thats just for show.

Quite the opposite is true, reveals Alexis Vitale of Vitale Design Group.

Using soft, comfortable performance fabrics will make a huge difference.

There are also so many greatrug linesnow that cater to looking great, while also being extremely durable.

So one couch and one coffee table really doesn’t work.

Get creative and add stools or ottomans to the space.

They can fit under your coffee table, too, says Vitale.

You wont believe how useful these pieces can be.

This can affect the functionality and efficiency of the space.

This way, you might get a better idea of the size before clicking add to cart.

Dont forget to consider height as well, especially for bookcases andcredenzas.