AVOID these IKEA DECOR MISTAKES! They are THE WORST! (+ EASY FIXES!)

These IKEA DECOR MISTAKES are easy to avoid! Use my link to get $70 Off your Blumene Face Pro PLUS a free ebook (Face Tightening Secrets) But it’s only for the the first 100 people! blumene.com/valentina
*Thank you to Blumene for being our video sponsor!
VIDEOS TO WATCH:
BEDROOM IN BEIGE: tinyurl.com/4cfup23e
HOMEGOODS SHOP WITH ME: tinyurl.com/4dz62xcm
CHECK OUT OUR KZbin LIVING CHANNEL: tinyurl.com/3avjevfx
SHOP V's AMAZON STORE FRONT: tinyurl.com/y2zkp37y
WATCH OUR AMAZON LIVE EVENTS: tinyurl.com/y2zkp37y
SHOP V's STYLE: tinyurl.com/57zyswss
F O L L O W M E -
// INSTAGRAM for HOME / thehouseofvalentina
// INSTAGRAM for LIVING / thehouseofvalentinaliving
// PATREON / houseofvalentina
// BLOG: www.houseofvalentina.com
// BUSINESS INQUIRIES: [e-mail]
// SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER HERE tinyurl.com/3u4ykjyj
IKEA DESIGNER PICKS:
IKEA Malm Nighstand : tinyurl.com/55j8fuw8
IKEA Vikhammer Nighstand: tinyurl.com/rhrvdxw9
IKEA Besta Media Cabinet and Sideboard: tinyurl.com/4cfb5cr2
IKEA Rodalm frame: tinyurl.com/3ej5vr97
IKEA Hovet Mirror: tinyurl.com/393678yw
IKEA Finnala Chair and sofa: tinyurl.com/3c6wufz3
IKEA Soderhamn Chair and Sofa: tinyurl.com/mvp4bncv
IKEA Berakna Vase: tinyurl.com/3ueshxmm
IKEA Pelarronn: tinyurl.com/3hsvaf92
IKEA Stilren: tinyurl.com/mwwp4dec
IKEA Sanela Pillows: tinyurl.com/yc3cze5c
IKEA Sanela Curtains: tinyurl.com/2bm9w7au
IKEA Fjadrar Inserts: tinyurl.com/4bbdn4w9
IKEA Billy Bookcase: tinyurl.com/yc5a2td7
IKEA Tversted Rug: tinyurl.com/navkx7v8
More Decor Faves:
Tom Ford 002 Book: amzn.to/3VWASwh
Sculpture: rstyle.me/+GDomWx4pWNI-M0nrKT...
Marble Bowl: rstyle.me/+VqvJQ_rC0rshvIPK7m...
Smaller Marble Bowl: amzn.to/3Lhm0Ud
Sculptural Ceramic Balls: amzn.to/3W8HRmV
IKEA DECOR MISTAKES:
0:00 Introduction
0:23 Don't Look to IKEA for Inspo
2:05 Not using Closed Storage
6:45 Making Collage Walls with lots of small items
8:13 Using IKEA boxes and bins as decor
9:13 Always Using a Bright pop of color
10:35 Overstuffing the Bookcases
13:29 Only Using IKEA pieces
14:22 Overstuffing the Sofa with Pillows:
16:36 Using Picture Ledges
17:56 Using IKEA kitchens as Inspo
Community Rules: Please be kind, everyone! No shaming of any kind. No politics, no excessive negativity, no bigotry, no abuse, no harassment, no hate speech, no personal attacks, no links, no spamming. Comments in these categories will be held for review and/or deleted.
This video contains affiliate links which may earn a commission for purchases made at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

[@HouseofValentina]

Don't fall into these IKEA DECOR MISTAKES! They are super EASY FIXES & BUDGET FRIENDLY!

[@katieswonders8249]

Bookcases are literally for books. Not for one book and decor.

[@erum.m]

OMG. This!! Exactly. I do not get the bookcases with that one book LOL. It is no longer a book case.

[@katieswonders8249]

@@erum.m :) I'm happy I'm not the only one seeing this madness. There is nothing that screams luxury more than a library filled with books. A cabinet filled with cheap decor from Amazon feels wannabe in comparison to that. And I get we are talking about Ikea, but I'd really prefer to fill a Billy with books rather than bowls.

[@sinat422]

Im afraid I cannot agree. Since I got rid of my books because of allergi I feel liberated. No heavy dusting duties. No guilty feeling of all of them I should have read. Instead I gave them to the local library so others can read my books, and I still have my books in my distant library 😂

[@erum.m]

@@sinat422 And that is also perfectly fine. We can all do what works for us without being condescending towards other people's design choices. I get when people point what is universally bad design but calling something bad design just because it is not your aesthetic comes under condescending for me.

[@katieswonders8249]

@@erum.m true! And books are not the only example that doesn't sit right. The generic graphic art looks like you bought frames and forgot to put pictures in them. Especially when there are multiples of the same one. There is no personality of the homeowners present there apart from interest in interior design. Even the books are multiples of the Tom Ford book. Luxury is about exclusivity i.e. making the space unique. If we all have generic art and Tom Ford books in our black and white houses then there is nothing exclusive about that. Dissing colour is another good example of this. I have seen dozens of gorgeous luxurious interiors (have you seen Palais de Versailles?) with great colour schemes. Valentina cannot go outside one specific idea of what luxury means and it's a shame.

[@lisahunter6556]

I can appreciate your aesthetic, but I don't think a maximalist style is "wrong" or a mistake or chaotic. Yves St Laurent's house was chock full of objects and it's iconic. And all those great British maximalist houses with tons of patterns and books and mismatched rugs can be charming. It's not for everyone, but it's a valid aesthetic. Some people feel nervous in a room where everything is just so, particularly if someone else is making the rules about everything needing to be put away, using coasters, etc.

[@michellelord153]

Different strokes for different folks!

[@reneeburich9497]

I feel I lean more toward minimalist looks, but not barren looking. I appreciate the aesthetic suggestions here, but my house is lived in and it would be nice to see a more regular lived in house where there are toys, books, magazines and yes, things out on the kitchen counter 😀

[@leonieharry2941]

you are right. And ikea does not show maximalism. They show well lived rooms for families, students, young couples, working spaces, etc. A totally other concept than sterile hotel elegance.

[@MihaelaFroehlich]

Exactly! Homeschooling family of seven here making use of our spaces wisely.

[@ellaninkovic]

I used to live in the USA, in a four bedroom house with large kitchen where I could hide all of my stuff in the cabinets... but that's not the case now in my German apartment. My kitchen here is the size of what my laundry room used to be, lol...Most of the European apartments are like that, so we have to use every centimetre of space, even if it doesn't always look the prettiest. That's where Ikea helps with the ideas of how to be practical and use the space.

[@maja-ku5yn]

IKEA is about how to place and fit ALL in a small space, like flats in Europe

[@sylviavalukievich5506]

That Is exactly the case ❤

[@sandraivanitch7]

Every bibliophile is going to have an overstuffed bookcase. Our books are an expression of who we are.

[@Beajacks]

I think V is talking about bookshelves stuffed with lots of items as well as books, in the way Ikea styles them. Well organised bookshelves full of books can look very luxurious.😃

[@sinat422]

I used to have very much books. Than I got allergi and gave my books away to our local Bibliotek. So thats my Bibliotek and I have borrowed some of my own back again. So I have just a few jewels of them back and I must say I dont miss all the others very much. So I guess that shows who I am: a dustfree living allergic....happy without all those dustcollecting books!

[@Aigra]

If you look at the images in the video though - a lot of the items in the bookcases aren't books. I love our stuffed bookcases but I hate the cluttered look you get from all these random knickknacks. Looks like a child's room or an office.

[@katieswonders8249]

@@sandraivanitch7 she is actually saying you don't have to buy books. You don't, but having loads of books is true luxury. I cannot imagime anything more precious.

[@camillemacquarrie7797]

What is she talking about??

[@penelopewarren3168]

I fail to understand why a person even needs a bookcase if they don't have books. Why have them at all if all you have to put in them is "decor."? There are plenty of other places to put that. To me luxury is having enough shelves for my library.

[@samiageldner3451]

I totally agree with almost all you say. I certainly do not like clutter, and I keep my decoration items paired back. For me, too many just amount to dust collectors. However, when it comes to books, I disagree with you. I will not give mine away. I love the feel of used books. Being a university professor, I live in my books. They are all marked up and tell a story. I need them in plain sight. I must admit that I have moved to the Kindle for my leisure reading, simply because I have no more space and carrying a Kindle in my purse or luggage is just much more convenient. Still, books should not be reduced to mere decoration items.

[@HouseofValentina]

Our worlds are a bit different then. As a designer my design books are like your text books. So mine are decor and also highly used and referred to consistently.

[@wrenbayley]

Agreed. I have a very modern minimalist style and my brain can’t function in clutter. But there’s something very luxurious and sophisticated about a library or library wall done right. It creates a calm, serene atmosphere of intelligence. Done right, it can look like it’s meant to be there and is clutter free, even if books line the shelves.

[@mountaingarden8823]

I love a library wall and am currently planning one in our home office to replace the multiple bookcases and “stacks” around the house. I do use some in decor, but most are either sentimental or reference. I can’t resist a beautiful book, and I’m excited to arrange them all together.

[@sylviavalukievich5506]

I also love my books and would not give them away. As a design lover, I cannot agree with reducing books to sheer decoration purposes. Moreover in Europe a concept of coffee table books is almost non existing. Im planning a nice library in my new house ❤

[@erum.m]

Books are not clutter. Period. And they need to be on display and not hidden away. I had them inside for lack of space for a decade and now that they are on my shelf - all filled up, that is my happy space. I rolled my eyes when she said...give them away ...absolutely no way!!! And sigh...yah I have kind of shifted to the Kindle thanks to my eyesight. But I really miss the physical books and adding to my collection.

[@Pattyjohnson476]

I've never thought that Ikea's style was luxurious or even meant to look luxurious. Their look is relaxed, lived-in, & yes, a bit cluttered. I also think it's meant for a younger crowd...younger than you & me. 😊 I'm in between lived- in & slightly lux.🤷

[@lene4102]

Spot on, and IKEA has always had this urge to use bright colors - young people love it - The older we get, the more 'silent' we need our homes. That said, I do like living very colorless, and it makes me feel relaxed - but adding so many of the same paintings does not at all look luxurious, elevated nor highend to me. Find real art that has the height and expression you like - or make it yourself. OK V, you asked for our opinions, you got it.

[@erum.m]

@@lene4102 So agree with it. I used to love color - in a way I still do. I have a yellow wall in my bedroom - loved it a decade back. Now it needs to go. I just set up a work space and I used to say I would never get boring beige - guess what the wall color is? There is color in the space - I have sage green and teal - but it is muted and not in your face. And it is such a warm and comfy space to be in.

[@lene4102]

@@erum.m I too have been around colors, forced myself to paint art with colors - but it never really spoke to me. I got so tired of having to 'see' it all the time. Now I only paint in black, white, shades of brown, and as they are huge, they still make me feel relaxed and not always having to deal with them. So I have had that color time too, and now we just do as we please 😂

[@robinsmith4499]

🤔 wow, I hear you and have watched your home become busier with vases, plants, and statues pieces. You have changed the simple, scaled back, sophisticated look in your home. Nothing wrong with changing your home into what you love. You love things. Just finished a house of a professor, nutritionist, and nurse. She has more books than I have ever seen. They were in her bedroom. I designed a cozy library nook with the book, reading chair, and great lamp. The books are in an amazing bookcase all along one wall and shelves over the headboard. Home owner shared I was the only designer who didn’t even question all the books. I explained joy is seeing individual embracing personality in their homes with style. You do the same thing in your home as it has gotten busier, it is still beautiful just like you.

[@tamikaa2020]

I use my bookshelf for books. I love my bookshelves.

[@04nbod]

I got a billy/oxberg to actually house books. It doesn't look good. I'm going to get some reeded glass film to obscure while still keeping it as glass.

[@jennifergraham3752]

I agree with you about the current styling at IKEA. I remember being inspired by the images when the catalog would arrive. It was fun to see how they used their products. That is no longer the case.

[@HouseofValentina]

Those were definitely the glory days of IKEA. I miss those catalogs and the cleaner styling aesthetic of those days. The catalog was so inspiring!

[@jennifergraham3752]

@@HouseofValentina yes! I wish that I had kept some of the older catalogs

[@sheilahalpin6664]

I don't think Ikea is going for modern luxury. They put all that stuff out to sell their product not “stage” our house

[@user-xr4ds1oi3n]

I'm a bit confused...you talk about luxury and then show Ikea...here in Italy we have a completely different idea of luxury in home decor and clothes...I think that in the US you have different tastes

[@derbit-yd5ib]

please name an epoca/ decorstil 😊 or material, or color - or your favorit furniture, or an favorit workspace 😅

[@timbarnosky9298]

Thank you for saying that about “pop of color”. I had a designer come over to help me with paint and design and then said where is your “pop of color” i never had her back. She didn’t get me..

[@HouseofValentina]

I know right!!! Where did this obsession come from???

[@alexanderpasnl]

I guess we're not all so sophisticated to throw a bunch of pebbles on a plate haha

[@HouseofValentina]

I'm not sure what you're talking about? 🤣

[@jessicahampton4995]

I'm not a big Ikea person so I agree. Funny you mentioned the chaotic and noisy look of a collage wall of pictures because when we watched your home tour, my husband and I both said at the same time the 10 framed art pieces entering your bedroom and the 14 framed art in the bedroom were too busy and needed to be paired back.😅🤣 LOVED the house tour but when we entered that area, my eyes were jumping from wall to wall. Too much art competing with each other. But I totally agree with what you said about collage walls - having too much can be visually noisy. Yes, we all need visual and mental calmness!

[@marilyn6905]

ABSOLUTELY!

[@carolynspringer6151]

Yes my thoughts exactly. Maybe the series of pictures above the bed would not compete with the other art if it was just one large elongated print?

[@marionandrews176]

You don’t need a pop of color…thank you so much for saying that! I get compliments on my apartment and I don’t have a pop of color anywhere. I have a consistent color palette throughout my apartment in the varying tones, tints and shades. The most expensive pieces are from big box stores like Pottery Barn and Crate & Barrel mixed with Ikea, Target,Amazon and Home Goods.

[@HouseofValentina]

People try and shame me all the time with that phrase. It's a concept that came from someone but it's not necessary for a beautiful home!

[@jennifergraham3752]

@@marionandrews176 Out of curiosity, are you also a Nick Lewis watcher? “Tints, tones and shades” always reminds me of him. 😃.

[@rachelturner8286]

@@jennifergraham3752 I had the same thought 😂

[@helloorganizedyou]

​@@HouseofValentina Yes! Didn't that expression come from Christopher Lowell or someone?! Wow back in the day!

[@brendasizemore382]

Almond girl?

[@eileenalbanese5362]

I totally agree, you can mix IKEA pieces in, but too many things in one space cheapens the overall look.

[@zoegoodfellow1988]

Ikea's "lived-in" look reminds me of when someone has a cold/flu!!

[@HouseofValentina]

That's hilarious!!! Maybe Flu aesthetic is the next big thing!!

[@zoegoodfellow1988]

@@HouseofValentina 😰 I hope not!

[@mytigereyez]

That's funny!

[@claudiasamperio]

YES!!! 😂

[@carotainteriordesign]

I just said the exact same thing on my channel😂 Flu aesthetics

[@mathildemaijer2396]

I don’t like closed storage. I need to see my things to not forget them. Especially drawers, they are not part of my way to store things away. In the kitchen they are okay, but books and hardware I need to see. I love collage walls. I love the small New York apartments full of energy, color, collage walls. So, we are all different. Different opinions, it is not that one way of interior design is a mistake and the other is right.

[@anniedoke]

have you heard of Clutterbug? we all have different organizing styles and yours seems to be more visual! That’s okay! everyone is different and working against your organizing style actually just means your home will be more disorganized.

[@mathildemaijer2396]

@@anniedokeyes that feels like me!

[@janetk8800]

But Valentina...you have a lot of stuff in your entire house! Whats the difference? Please explain

[@chouchouhargneux]

There is no clutter in her house. Every object is curated and mindfully placed. It’s tidy and inviting

[@janetk8800]

@@chouchouhargneux Thank you but I don't want your reply I would like hers it looks cluttered sometimes to me there's too much stuff

[@sheilahalpin6664]

I thought it was interesting you mentioned overdoing artwork but noticed that in your new bedroom reveal, there is tons of artwork on your walls (?)

[@TeresaBotha-mf5gt]

My daughter who is a qualified interior designer always says my space looks like it belongs in a Condé Nast magazine. She didn't design it, i did.

[@HouseofValentina]

That's awesome and what a wonderful compliment from your daughter!

[@FrankieOlive91]

You wouldn’t like my house! lol. If I don’t find open storage, I just end up leaving it out. That lived in maximalist life is my jam. Lots of color, art, stuffed bookshelves (with actual books), hanging items out in the open… I love it all. You said you don’t want the lived in look but I don’t like feeling like I live in a museum. If I don’t see the stuff, I get the stress. My goal is constant organization so everything has its place but it’s not to hide it away. Frequently used stuff is stored in the open and infrequent is stored away. Funny thing is that if you open any drawers or closets at my house they are cleaner and emptier than you would ever imagine. I’m about to take my closet door off in my bedroom because I don’t see the point. It just gets in the way. 😂 I watch you because you have great ideas and you’re hilarious but I recognize that we are very different. That’s okay. Still enjoyed the video. My jaw dropped a few times when you said how horrible something looked when I thought it was beautiful. I definitely don’t collect all IKEA stuff, though. I like thrifting and shopping around at all different places for an eclectic look that is specific to me. Thanks for the video.

[@plantsbeautylove]

I’m the same way ! 🫡 my home is basically a vintage shop and I love having lots of bookshelf’s with read and loved books over filled .. book wealth hehe💗 and I love throw pillows and throw blankets .. I personally need a cozy home to feel relaxed.

[@LisaMarie-br8tn]

Totally agree with you! I love a cozy home of artistic expression.

[@marilyn6905]

Not at all sure the favored HOV larger Art in "Repeating Pattern" is all that superior or more "Luxurious" than some of the "busy" IKEA vignettes!

[@bcgirl9369]

I have watched your videos for years now, but worry about you! I think your starting to be a bit like IKEA and have to much decor in your home now 🙃 im begining to feel stressed looking at your house filled with such beautiful things but so many of them, i would kindly suggest that you switch out your art/decor from time to time rather than having it all out all the time, everything is lovely but there's so many items now that i struggle to focus when watching now. I still really love your videos and it is inspiring ❤

[@o0oRin]

I don't usually comment but I totally agree with you. I used to love her modern style, but now it's too much! Mixing of styles is not always good. Please declutter and focus on 1 style.

[@melodymulhall7860]

I hate to say it but I agree. I love Valentina but do not care for recent art pieces especially the one she is standing in front of. I know she loves that but it’s getting too much. If she took them down less is more and with all of the others on the wall looks cluttered. I have bought so much with her suggestions and love what I bought. She is a great shopper but I have never been an IKEA fan. It’s too cheap looking to me. Start walking thru Restoration Hardware. That’s my look.

[@kristivenancio7816]

Some of how you framed this was a bit offensive to be honest. Sure it was not your intention. It is my opinion that one can have a bit more of a maximalist design aesthetic and still have a luxurious space. There are ways to include color in a sophisticated way. There was a feeling of, you can do these things but they won't be stylish or sophisticated. I watch your videos because i can implement aspects of your style into mine but not need to insult the differences in our style.

[@HouseofValentina]

Oh no! I'm not sure what part offended you but I'm so sorry as this definitely wasn't my intention. The video was really more about IKEA than it was our own personal homes.

[@kristivenancio7816]

@@HouseofValentina thank you for saying that! I probably just unnecessarily personalized it. Really appreciate your response and I figured it was not your intention.

[@bhazleton]

@@HouseofValentina There was nothing offensive about this show. If some people don't agree with your opinion, they take offense. Sheesh. You can make everyone happy.

[@ednareid5315]

People need to loosen up!!!!

[@triciajulian1320]

Love to use the ledges and wall collages!!!!! Nothing wrong with them!

[@user-df4pn3ix1n]

Who said it has to feel luxurious ... ? I guess 95 % of Ikea customers are not living a luxurious life. And modern doesn t necessarily mean luxurious... Imho

[@SoilMama]

No one did. Certainly not Valentina. She did say however, IF you want the luxurious look.

[@erum.m]

@@SoilMama I feel like if you do, then IKEA is not necessarily the place you get your stuff.

[@SoilMama]

@@erum.m Proving you've completely missed the point of this video and this channel.

[@erum.m]

@@SoilMama I normally like her videos but this one was just not the right tone and you can see it did not sit well with many. It just seemed like she was looking down on anyone who doesn't have the same design aesthetic as her and she is the only one who knows what luxury is. Like someone mentioned in another comment, there is nothing more luxurious than a book shelf actually filled with book vs decor from Amazon. But as per OP you should just donate all your books because they are clutter.

[@bhazleton]

Geez Valentina. I just read some of the comments and I feel sorry for you. Your opinions seem to fry some people. I for one, really value your guidance. It has helped me save money from buying too much crap. Thank you.

[@Tasha-ss9mq]

I wholeheartedly agree with you

[@HouseofValentina]

It's ok, I can handle it!

[@chickaweeka]

There are a lot of people in the world that have inner work to do lol. Yes, she is an expert but everyone has free will to do as they please. They’re insecure about their design style, but pretending not to be. If they truly loved how they’ve curated their home, they would just watch her for entertainment-their insecurity makes them take her opinion as a personal attack instead of an opinion 🥴

[@anisk8627]

And yet they are still watching , lol . Valentina u must be doing something right , great job

[@ibislife]

Dear Valentina, I totally agree with you, until the bookcase subject - they are for storing books! 😅 I dont have one anymore, but my books end up in piles in the windowsill, in front of the tv - which I can toss out to tell you the truth, big ugly screen. And dont get me started on the books with the pages out...! 🤣I do like a pop of color, but muted, and the same colours repeats itself throughout the house. Strange this, but being a Scandinavian, I always end up scandi, light and airy.. Back to Ikea, the commercials? They wants to celebrate life, and all the mishaps that can happen with kids at home alone parties, dogs peing on the rugs and so on.. We know all these things, right? We want to be inspired in beautiful homes! I am building a greenhouse right now, but I do have to address my open shelving in the bathroom, you guessed it, "Ivar" from Ikea, it was a temporary solution, well, 5 1/2 years later it is still there..

[@lynnnogare7987]

I was surprised that you did this video because I thought you liked clutter. There are very few empty spaces in your home.

[@matildamiranda3269]

I haven’t watched in a while and feel the same! Not to mention in this one tiny shot of her alone, there’s a random bowl of rocks (?), a book that’s never opened being used as a coaster for a generic piece of art, an incredibly generic abstract painting behind her, and BLACK walls. None of this is luxurious nor screams paired down to me. I’m sorry, Valentina but you’ve swapped IKEA tacky for whatever style of tacky you’re displaying.

[@mytigereyez]

Awesome tips and items! I don't want ANYTHING to show what I'm hiding, hellooooooo! I have a hidden junk drawer in every room I go through every few months. The more organized and minimal I can look like I am, the better. 😄

[@HouseofValentina]

That's hilarious!!! The appearance of organized, love it!

[@exeterline1930]

It feels kind of tyrranical to live with so many rules. I'd be in tears all day long and/or behind a locked door. I'd never sit down out of fear of forgetting to fluff the pillow or leave a wrinkle in the cushion. I wouldn't last long there. I agree about the clutter being too much, but the pillow thing is scary.

[@bae4844]

I really love Ikea, but I mix it with Antiques. Also not a big fan of open storage, but they have closed storage as well. It‘s always nice to mix things up.

[@HouseofValentina]

Thanks for sharing!!

[@user-zb2ss3es3v]

I like to see personality. I like your house but looks very show home to me.

[@HouseofValentina]

Thanks!

[@liisaking1247]

Please, I beg you, lose the karate chopped pillows! It is *never* a good or luxurious look IMO. Neither, of course, should your sofa pillows look like you just tried out a Cloud sofa at the store and the staff at RH hasn't fluffed it back up yet. From your comments, I would say you are strongly looking for visual simplicity. Do you like to sort things into large categories or very precise ones behind closed doors? My niche is the chronically disorganized/neurodiverse individual and anything small space living (under about 700 sq ft). Many neurodiverse individuals struggle with object permanence and require a more functional, more visual system in order to maintain their space successfully. It may never look like a $20 million house, but it can certainly look less cluttered and chaotic than the IKEA photos you were showing! As for bookshelves, I am so over the pretentious placement of one item per shelf with something that carries zero meaning for the people who live in the space. Bookshelves are for (gasp) books! Make them appear less busy by putting paperbacks on the bottom half of Billy bookshelves and using solid doors (with knobs that co-ordinate with the rest of the space). Style hard cover series books up top, or replace the upper wood shelves with glass and add personally meaningful and attractive memorabilia in a tiny space. Oh yes, and forget about using "books by the yard"; it doesn't fool those of us who actually read and love books!

[@heikejanka302]

I think IKEA is desperately trying to portray particularly "lifelike" rooms; rooms where someone has just got up from the dining table without tidying up, where children have just jumped around on the couch, and where someone is trying to create some supposedly inviting vignettes in a completely unmotivated and pointless way. I agree with you wholeheartedly. I couldn't live in an IKEA flat.

[@HouseofValentina]

I agree with your view on this. I see what they're trying to do but it's a bit like a clothing store trying to sell clothes by having them on the floor like someone just stepped out of them.....ewwww!🤣

[@amyl3921]

My husband loves chaos, posters, items, etc. everywhere. I consistently work on a decluttered, neutral, clean space. It is a constant battle. I feel overstimulated, and his ADHD brain wants all stimulation. Does anyone else have an opinionated husband who wants a say in all decor designs? As someone who is passionate about design, cleanliness and a calm, peaceful space - this is the one area we continue to dispute. (I say this as a psychotherapist who has used all the usual communication techniques).

[@i.m.7777]

I just moved into a new house and brought along four of those big wall picture ledges yet I have been hesitant to drill holes into the walls because they cause so much damage upon removal. Watching this helped me decide to get rid of them. Thank you.

[@creatingmissjones1711]

I usually like your videos and agree with your opinions, however on this one I think you missed the book. It came across as your design aesthetic is the only “right” one and everything else is cheap and cluttered. Not your best work.

[@whiskersBOOSTER2]

This was an awesome video! You made me laugh so many times with your comments about the no’s of IKEA. 😂 Completely agree. You look gorgeous!

[@HouseofValentina]

Thank you so much! That's so sweet of you to say!!!

[@afeefacellularhamzacellula4730]

I think they taking the photos that way is to sell their products, I think they are giving ideas on how to use their furniture etc.

[@izziegirl6871]

As I look back on the seasons of my life, it has been a gradual and gentle transition from lots of primary colors and stuff to a much more pared back neutral palate and less but better. ( I just purchased a beautiful original oil painting from an artist in Ukraine on Ebay.) Lately have been learning about Swedish death cleaning which intrigues me at this time of my life. Always appreciate listening and learning to others as it helps me hone in on my own personal style. I appreciate that Valentina is true to herself and knows how to bring it all to life in her home, takes insight and courage. Kudos to you and Jack!❤

[@g.970]

I just read the Swedish Death Cleaning. Although I can’t pare back that much I am doing a lot of donating, selling, and trashing. Feels good too

[@msalazar413]

Ikea does a great job of staging their rooms to SHOW AS MANY PRODUCTS AS POSSIBLE. That is the entire point. They want to show the customer as many products in one photo as they can. They are not selling perfection. They are showing you all the possibilities. I love the Ikea catalog because each showroom shows so many options. Also … they sell and target young adults / college students. Hence, green blankets. Finally, Ikea does not target “luxurious”. I think you missed the mark here.

[@jessieroark9376]

Long time follower/watcher, first time commenter. Thank you for putting into words how I feel about IKEA. It was my store of choice for most inexpensive items needed when I was younger. But over the years I’ve upgraded the “cheap” furniture styles for the more luxurious solutions. I’m still “upgrading” some of my cheaper looking furniture and I’m sure I’ll always want to make changes, but knowing I shouldn’t feel judged for looking at an IKEA solution despite wanting a more elegant look is so encouraging. Everything in moderation - and the color, shape, size, and feel of the item really is all that matters.

[@HouseofValentina]

Welcome to the comments!!! I love how you said all of this, I love how you're evolving and growing your style and home!

[@yourconnection9303]

I dropped off some items to donate at a thrift store this week, and I noticed the great amount of vases they had. I hear you what you say about color, although I do find that EQ3 do stage their showrooms very sophisticatedly with using color.

[@kimberlymc2]

Love this video! I was wondering about the IKEA kitchen cabinets. Would you recommend the door fronts too? I know you mentioned you would be picky but I wasn’t sure if that you meant you’d avoid the doors altogether. We are looking into to a kitchen remodel but do not have a huge budget. If it’s not a good move, then I don’t want to throw money at it! I value your thoughts!! Also, do you have any recommendations for Roman shades?

[@mraduma]

Let the records show that today is the day Valentina had a meltdown 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 you’re so funny! And yes, Ikea is pioneering the “bougie hobo” look.

[@susanpera2131]

In a maximalist home, the items are carefully curated . If you use items that aren’t really beautiful or unique, then what you have is clutter. I agree, these IKEA photos look cluttered, as if they want to show very single thing they sell rather than create a beautiful setting. I don’t like “pops” of color, but instead have one, subdued shade of mossy/spring green that is used minimally throughout my home. I love your videos. I style my bookcases very carefully and I love them.,

[@DonnaRo]

Yes! Lol it looks like someone had a wild party 🥳 and didn’t clean up! 😳😂😅

[@user-zb2ss3es3v]

What about if your things are sentimental. I love my belongings because they have meaning to me. What about if you don’t have a huge house?

[@HouseofValentina]

I prefer a less cluttered look. We've lived in 23 different places in our life and this home is double the size of most of the places we lived. Even when we were five people living in a 1600 sq ft home I had the same style and aesthetic. We had storage hidden everywhere because space was so limited but I did it in a way that the house never felt small.

[@user-wo5xs9jd6o]

I agree with everything you said. Great video! Thank you. Truly resonates with me

[@huldaolafsdottir4898]

Amazing, as always.

[@suanneamos4491]

Valentina, I had no idea the ledges had been around for so long but you’re right!! I have three white ledges from Pottery Barn but now that I look at them I can see how my room could look larger and more clean if I took them down and only had a few pictures or artwork instead. Thank you for the reality check. I have probably had them for over 15 years and hadn’t even realized it!

[@maryandrews2265]

Great video. Thank you!!

[@frazzledthoughts1308]

I have Sanela curtains & cushions - I just love the luxurious feel velvet has.

[@sinat422]

Hei igjen Valentina! I have had many Ikea kitchens and always been happy with their solutions. Now I have a high brand kitchen in Norway and I miss my old Ikea kitchen. The high brand was already installed in our new home and since money doesnt fall from the trees we feel obliged to keep it for a while. But Im looking forward to get rid of it so I can get a fully customised Ikea kitchen!

[@SoilMama]

Thank you for your videos like this one, Valentina. I think knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do (same with your amazon duds video). I have loved and desired the luxury look all my life but never thought I could achieve it because I didn't have $5,000 for a dining table and $800 for each chair, etc. You've shown me it's not only possible on my budget, but how to achieve it and also how to level up. I'm implementing your advice and slowly, I am creating a home that reflects what I truly love.

[@bhazleton]

I would love to know more about Ikea kitchen fronts. I have outdated oak cabinets that are in great shape but new fronts would look spectacular. I suppose I could have them painted but I would like to know all my options. I just don't know where to begin. Thank you

[@lapetitefeuille8684]

Ma maison est pleine de couleurs. Elle date de 1922, j’ai utilisé les couleurs à la mode à cette époque pour la peinture des murs et pour le papier peint. La couleur est un écrin luxueux pour les jolis meubles en bois massifs. Seuls les paysans avaient des murs blancs. Les livres sont la plus grande richesse, ils peuvent être visibles.

[@trikywu]

You're awesome, Valentina. Such great solutions. I'm guilty of all that open storage and controlled or tidy clutter. Time for a change.

[@beckya1809]

I agree with you Valentina~too much clutter gives me anxiety 😬 love your style ❤

[@rachelchudley1527]

Really helpful ! One of your best videos 👏👏👏

[@HouseofValentina]

Glad it was helpful!

[@stinaljungstrom8691]

I don't think IKEA has never been striving to be luxury. They are about cheap, affordable furniture for working class people. The founder Ingvar Kamprad was a simlpe dowen to earth man; still living in the same house, with his old car, even after he became very rich. They always have been aiming for affordable, relaxed and lived in homes in some different styles. They also are about how to fit much into a smaller space, because we live much smaller in Sweden. A room can be half of the size or one third of yours... even one fourth. We could not have a full size bed in our last bedroom because then it was not possible to have bedside tables. They try to have a little for everybody; some basics and some of the trends. Family life where everybody are welcome to take place in all parts of the home is one thing they always show. Everybody and everything is welcome; even kids toys in the livingroom. They also have cheap sets for young people moving from home. But you can find some things even if you have a more paired back or luxury style. But I never saw a showroom at IKEA that looked really fancy. I think cosy and some playful things are more of their vibe.

[@ValleyGreenNaturals]

Yes! I'm so glad you made this video! We are planning to buy an apartment in France (not Paris), and everyone there seems to use Ikea ad nauseum for furniture, storage and decor. I've noticed in the homes there, they use A LOT of open storage (small art & small rugs too). It makes me stressed just to look at all the chaos and mis-sized choices.🤦‍♀

[@carolyncwilliams]

Love it! Would love a how to design a quality ikea kitchen!

[@mireyaharo6977]

Love your energy and your passion for interior design I agree that a decluttered home is a more relaxing environment 👍

[@carolyngrotaers4454]

I agree with Valentina 💯. I think the key when purchasing Ikea goods is to look at the material the items are made from.

[@Sanialearns1]

I disagree with you on your comments regarding book cases. Bookshelves are for books. Period.

[@MyshelLeAnn]

Maybe because I’ve never lived anywhere other than US but I have never looked at IKEA for design, furniture, inspiration or anything. I have always just looked at IKEA for a college student, a single person or newly married couples first home from moving out of parents house. 🤷‍♀️

[@virginiasanchis1717]

Totally agree about the cluttered look on the Ikea photos.

[@donnaluna6139]

I think you’re right how they overstuff everything because they have so much stuff to see since I’ve been watching your videos. I gone to Kia and got a couple things I would like for you to do a video On smaller apartment how to use storage look like IKEA

[@donnaluna6139]

I mean, that doesn’t look like a Kia

[@nattyboomboom7026]

My gramma had a house full of stuff, little nicnacs here and there, everywhere, bookcases full of books not vases, vinyl albums. She never changed her decor unless it really needed replacing. And btw, she had money to do it, she preferred to spend money on her family and holidays. Bringing back little pieces from all over the world and displaying them. She also had a very active social life and was always hanging out with friends. My other grandmother was the total opposite. She changed everything every 3 years. Even down to the little nicnacs. She never had money for anything. She never had hobbies except for shopping and redesigning her home. She didn't really have friends. I loved them both but when they died one left behind a house full of memories and the other left nothing. I know what I'd prefer to leave behind. Ikea doesn't go for luxury. It goes for a down to earth real look. Thats what most peoples homes look like. The sad thing is every designer is trying to tell us to have houses that look like an Air bnb.

[@sandragalda]

It could be stated more often in this nice video ( thank you for your super content), that there is a difference between the agenda of decorating your house, and creating a sales brochure (or a sales room).....

[@cindysteffens8065]

Clutter makes me crazy! I totally agree with you.

[@mr-tg4xn]

I agree with you on the clutter. However, since u talk so much about personal touch and adding a personality, Why dont u incorporate that in the speaces u create and promote. Black and white repeating art has nonpersonality and u can do better eith you amazing style with everything else ❤

[@HouseofValentina]

I absolutely love the artwork. It's graphic, strong, fierce and truly speaks to my heart.

[@mr-tg4xn]

@HouseofValentina duplicate prints and graphic real art are very very different . If u were doing q show that didn't promote sophistication the u could c2ll us the fact that u like this art. But if u like sophistication and teach that, then u cant promote poster prints that have 1000,000 copies . The paintings are bad and don't even go with ur home or ur personality.

[@wendymarrero9010]

You are 💯 right I wish you would do a board of ikeas items arranged it to show an example

[@kcchicana]

Does chic and luxurious mean dark and cluttered?

[@ginathomas5115]

YES FLUFF THE DANG PILLOWS! PLEASE!!!😂😂😂

[@mcanultymichelle]

Totally agree

[@oliverakatic9299]

Scandinavian contries are over populated and the accent os on small apartments, there is a lot of students from all over the world , so all these stuff are mainly for them to dill up apartments while they are studying abraod

[@emilyprice861]

I love empty space...my husband and kids fill empty space...it's a circle. How do you express 'the negative space is intended not to be filled'?

[@emilyprice861]

Two things I have taken to heart: 'I don't decorate with clothes and the couch is not a storage space'.

[@HouseofValentina]

Thanks for sharing Emily, I'm glad these videos are helping you!

[@a.m.icadete7578]

Says the woman that has a home that's mega cluttered in so many ways 😂😂I 😂. KZbinrs are just something else

[@user-bd6jw5xx2e]

I completely agree with you, it gives me the impression of a messy house also cheap

[@crystalcaprice]

Hi Valentina! Will you make a video on how to create a luxury space with young kids? I have a baby and a toddler, and I think I’ve done a pretty decent job, but I would love some more ideas!

[@SaraWhiteChi]

*It had to be said.* I lol'd at the VADHOLMA rack. (We still 💙 you, IKEA!)

[@debbieparisian4792]

I love your channel, but home decor is a personal preference- some people prefer a maximal style - I get inspiration from you but I also I happen to like many (not all ) Ikea style photos. Also, not everyone has the priviledge of owning a big house so it can easily look cluttered. If you put all your stuff ibn a small house, it would look cluttered.

[@ritagross6044]

Pottery Barn over-decorates their rooms, too. But with more expensive stuff.

[@cathyhermann2640]

I agree! Ikea is known for space saving solutions but they're advertising does not portray that with all the clutter out! Spot on Valentina, I hope they see this & take note.

[@libenakubalikova5889]

I agree with you ❤, greetings from Czech Republic

[@misled5036]

I get it, but instead of talking about what to do instead of IKEA’s styles you could show examples of what you mean especially w/ bookshelves and pairing back stuff.

[@rafarazo2657]

Loved this video. Been waiting for content like this. Im excited for what’s more to come!

[@HouseofValentina]

Glad you enjoyed!

[@leonieharry2941]

Ikea makes their photos like rooms which are lived in!! So we all can relate to it. Nobody wants to live in a catalog-room sterile like a hotelroom or even worse like in a hospital or nursing room. And you get the look with having books laying around, plaids on the couch etc. As if someone has just left the room for coming back soon. Even if not everything suits your taste (it doesn't in any furniture store), IKEA showcases its goods well. and since many people in the USA already have ikea furniture, a lot of inspiration is taken from there. It only appears clittered because residential scenes are depicted. And yet the room still appears cozy. What you can't say about all interior design styles...;-))

[@leonieharry2941]

The longer you speak the more I must smile because I get the impression that you have plenty of neurotic traits. i believe you that you cannot stand if someone in your family stands up from the couch and does not instantly fluff the pillows, or if the picture frames are not all the same etc. It is sooo much neurotic and very "monk-ish". I get that you need it to feel personal freedom and peace in your room. But in my opinion ikea shows the normal family or students or couple life with all the things we love like books, pictures in different frames, colour, plaids, pillows, couches to REALLY lay on etc. Having things and colours around can be the difference between plank and sterile and cozy. And cozyness is in this time often we are searching more. And good news is you can mix it. There is a way of making a room reduced and cozy too! Maybe THIS would be a good theme for a video!?

[@decoratingtheshack]

LOVE THIS 🎉❤

[@virginiasanchis1717]

My take on the Ikea "pop of color" thing is that it's a cultural thing. In Sweden, like in most Scandinavian countries the climate calls for pops of colors inside.

[@AmandaOwensliterature]

Full bookshelf is great, BUT IKEA has doors for the Billy bookshelves. I have 2 of them.

[@lucywood5545]

Hm, you really triggered The Book People today.