14 Unnecessary Decor to Let Go of for a Calmer Living Space

Creating a serene and calming environment in your home often starts with decluttering unnecessary items that may cause visual noise or disrupt the sense of tranquility. By letting go of these unnecessary decor items, you’ll create more physical space, reduce visual clutter, and invite a sense of calm and tranquility into your living environment.

Overly Busy Wall Art

While wall art is a great way to express your style, too many or overly busy pieces can overwhelm the senses. Abstracts with chaotic designs or bold, loud colors may create an atmosphere of tension. Opt for minimalist artwork or a single statement piece that brings a sense of balance. Calm, muted tones or nature-inspired designs are great for fostering a peaceful environment. Less is often more when it comes to achieving a serene look.

Excessive Throw Pillows

Throw pillows can add color and texture to a room, but an abundance of them can make your space feel cluttered. Instead of covering your sofa with pillows, consider reducing the number to just a couple of thoughtfully chosen pieces. Pillows that are too bright or patterned may add unnecessary visual busyness. Stick to soft hues and comfortable fabrics that contribute to the overall harmony of the room. Simplifying your couch will instantly make the space feel more inviting and calm.

Unused Books and Magazines

Bookshelves filled to the brim with old books and magazines can make your living space feel cramped. If you’re not planning to read or use these items, it’s best to donate or recycle them. Too many books stacked everywhere can also collect dust and make cleaning harder. Select only your favorite reads and display them neatly, allowing for more open space. This helps create a more organized and tranquil atmosphere, giving you mental clarity.

Fussy Window Treatments

Heavy curtains with intricate patterns or multiple layers can weigh down the look of your room. They may block natural light and create a feeling of confinement. Instead, choose simple, lightweight window treatments that allow sunlight to filter in and brighten the space. Natural light is known to boost mood and create a sense of openness, helping you feel calmer. Let go of overly complicated drapery in favor of sleek, minimalist designs.

Outdated Furniture Pieces

Holding onto outdated furniture, especially those with loud patterns or mismatched styles, can disrupt the flow of your space. Old, bulky furniture tends to take up more room than necessary and detracts from a clean aesthetic. Consider donating or repurposing old items that no longer serve a functional or aesthetic purpose. Replace them with furniture that has clean lines and neutral colors, promoting a sense of order and calmness. Your living room will immediately feel lighter and more serene.

Overfilled Shelves and Surfaces

Shelves cluttered with too many knick-knacks, photos, or trinkets can quickly become overwhelming. When every surface is packed with items, it disrupts the sense of open space and calm. Instead, practice minimalism by keeping only a few meaningful pieces on display. A cleaner surface allows for more visual breathing room, which contributes to a serene atmosphere. Letting go of excessive decorations also makes it easier to clean and maintain the space.

Trendy Items That Don’t Reflect You

Decorating with the latest trends can be fun, but too many trendy items that don’t reflect your personal style can make a room feel inauthentic. Instead of following every decor trend, focus on pieces that have a timeless appeal and resonate with you. Letting go of items that feel impersonal or that you’ve outgrown will make your space feel more aligned with who you are. This brings a sense of calm because your surroundings will be a true reflection of yourself. A well-curated space always feels more peaceful.

Unnecessary Rugs

While rugs can anchor a room, too many or oversized ones can make a space feel cramped and disorganized. A rug that’s too small may throw off the balance of the room, while a rug that’s too big can dominate the space. Consider limiting your use of rugs, especially if they clash with other elements of the room. A bare floor or a single, well-placed rug in a neutral tone can make the space feel more expansive and open. Simple, natural fiber rugs often evoke a calming, grounded vibe.

Distracting Patterns and Colors

Bright, bold patterns and clashing colors can create visual chaos, making it harder to relax. Consider neutralizing your color palette with soothing tones such as soft grays, whites, and pastels. Let go of bold decor items that disrupt the harmony of the room. A monochromatic or simple color scheme promotes tranquility and helps the room flow seamlessly. This change will invite a calmer and more serene environment, ideal for unwinding.

Old or Unloved Decorative Pieces

If a decorative item no longer brings you joy or has lost its meaning, it may be time to let it go. Holding onto items simply because they’ve been part of your decor for years can contribute to clutter. Choose only decor that brings you happiness and peace when you look at it. Removing old, uninspiring pieces will free up space for items that genuinely reflect your current style and enhance the calmness of your living area. This intentional curation helps foster a more peaceful and refreshing space.

Fake Plants

While real plants have been shown to reduce stress and improve air quality, fake plants often have the opposite effect. Faux greenery can collect dust and add to the visual clutter without offering any real benefits. Let go of the artificial plants and consider replacing them with low-maintenance real plants like succulents or snake plants. The presence of living greenery can significantly improve the sense of calm in your space. Real plants bring an organic, soothing energy that’s hard to replicate with artificial ones.

Overly Themed Decor

A room that’s too theme-heavy, such as beach-themed or rustic-themed decor, can feel contrived and overbearing. While it’s fun to incorporate themes, an excess can make a room feel kitschy and cluttered. Let go of items that are too on-the-nose and instead focus on subtle nods to the theme through color or texture. Balance is key to creating a calming space that reflects your style without feeling forced. A less-is-more approach often leads to a more sophisticated and peaceful environment.

Unnecessary Lighting Fixtures

Multiple or oversized lighting fixtures can crowd a room and overwhelm the space. Chandeliers or statement lighting in every corner can contribute to sensory overload. Instead, simplify your lighting by opting for functional, streamlined fixtures that provide soft, ambient light. Well-chosen lighting can highlight your favorite features of a room without becoming a focal point. Eliminating excess lighting allows for a more restful and balanced atmosphere.

Excessive Family Photos

While displaying a few family photos is meaningful, covering every wall with them can make your space feel cluttered and busy. Choose a select few that bring you the most joy and display them in sleek frames or a dedicated gallery wall. This way, you can still celebrate your memories without overwhelming the visual calm of your space. Fewer photos will allow for a cleaner aesthetic while still personalizing your home in a meaningful way.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

More From RetailShout

13 Must-Try Snack Combos from Trader Joe’s for Every Craving

Do you have a go-to snack combo? If not, Trader Joe’s is about to fix that with some seriously tasty pairings. Whether you’re craving something sweet, salty, or a bit of both, these must-try combos are about to become your new snack obsession. Read More.

15 Overlooked Seafood Options Packed with Omega-3s

Seafood is packed with so many good-for-you nutrients, and one of the most important is Omega-3 fatty acids. You might already know about popular sources like salmon or tuna, but there’s a whole world of delicious and nutrient-rich seafood out there that often gets overlooked.  Read More.

17 Southern Snacks the Rest of the World Needs to Experience

When it comes to comfort food, the American South knows best. Rich in history and bursting with flavor, Southern snack foods are a testament to the region’s diverse cultural influences. Read More.