Whether you’re remodeling an entire first floor or updating a single room, home improvement projects take planning, time, and budget. Along with the helpful advice you’ll hear during a renovation, there are also plenty of home improvement myths that can lead to costly mistakes or design decisions you may regret later. Here are a few common home remodeling myths that deserve a closer look.
Myth 1: Trendy is Always Best
This is one of the most common home design myths during a remodel. The latest trends can absolutely influence your design choices, but your personal style should still lead the way. If you love color, there’s no reason to commit to an all-white room simply because it’s popular right now. A well-designed home should reflect how you actually want to live.
If you want to balance your personal tastes, timeless design best practices, and current home decor trends, then adding a pop of color through a bespoke coffee table, bright console, or fun light fixture is a simple way to bring personality into a more neutral space without overwhelming the room.
Henry & Co keeps a pretty neutral color palette, but the result is anything but washed out
Myth 2: DIY is Always a Great Way to Save Money
DIY home improvement projects can save money in some situations, but not every project should be handled without professional help. Taking on work outside your skill set can easily turn into an expensive repair later.
Installing a light fixture may seem straightforward, but before starting, ask yourself if you truly know how to install it safely and correctly. Improper electrical work can lead to tripped breakers, damaged fixtures, or sparking outlets. In some cases, trying to cut costs during a remodel can end up increasing your overall home renovation expenses.
Myth 3: Expensive Materials Always Add Value to Your Home
This home improvement myth might come disguised as a “tip,” but the reality is that consistency throughout all of the rooms is more important. High-end materials alone do not automatically increase home value. One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make during a renovation is investing heavily in one area while leaving the rest of the home untouched.
Imported tile in the entryway or luxury kitchen appliances may look impressive, but buyers also pay attention to consistency throughout the home. If bathrooms and bedrooms feel outdated compared to recently remodeled spaces, the home may come across as unfinished or mid-renovation rather than fully updated.
A little can go a long way for a bedroom upgrade (PS - that's what oomph is ALL ABOUT!) Cape project by Amanda Zorumski
Myth 4: Going Green is (Almost) Always Worth It
Finally, this is one home improvement tip that actually holds up, and deserves the hype. Energy-efficient home upgrades may cost more upfront, but they can help reduce long-term energy use and monthly utility costs over time.
Features like energy-efficient lighting, updated appliances, improved insulation, and ceiling fans can improve comfort while helping your home run more efficiently. That said, not every “green” upgrade automatically makes financial sense for every homeowner. The best approach is to focus on upgrades that fit your home, your budget, and how you actually use the space.
Literally, the coolest fans ever
Myth 5: You Need Matching Furniture Sets to Tie a Room Together
Perfectly matching furniture sets were once seen as the easiest way to make a room feel complete, but that approach can sometimes make a space feel flat or overly staged. Mixing materials, finishes, textures, and furniture styles often creates a more natural and lived-in look that gives a room more personality.
The key is consistency in scale, color balance, and overall style rather than having every piece come from the same collection. Thoughtfully combining different wood finishes, accent pieces, or upholstery can make a room feel more layered and visually interesting without looking disconnected.
Myth 6: Function Outweighs Aesthetic
A functional space matters, but that does not mean design should become an afterthought. The most successful home interiors balance both practicality and appearance so the space works well while still feeling inviting and personal.
Storage, lighting, seating, and layout should absolutely support everyday life, but aesthetics also affect how comfortable and enjoyable a room feels. A well-designed home should make daily routines easier without sacrificing style. In many cases, small design choices like furniture placement, lighting fixtures, or color accents can improve both function and overall appearance at the same time.
Turn Home Inspiration Into a Space You Love
Home remodeling advice is everywhere, but not every tip applies to every home, budget, or personal style. While trends and design “rules” can help guide decisions, the best spaces are usually the ones that balance function, comfort, and individuality. Avoiding common home improvement myths can help you make more confident design choices and create a home that feels right for the way you actually live.
Planning an update to one room? Getting ready to renovate your home? Thoughtful details, practical upgrades, and pieces that reflect your style can make a lasting impact throughout your home. If you’re ready to bring new life into your space, shop oomph for furniture, lighting, and home accents designed to add personality and function to every room.