Quick Takes: Design Hot Takes Edition

Each week we send our Quick Takes questionnaire to a celebrity design guest—and week over week, one prompt proves particularly popular. To mark the first six months, we’re looking back at 11 hot-take design opinions—some of them a little spicy…

My unpopular design opinion is…

Open-plan living is overrated. Bring back individual rooms with character, each with their own purpose. – Sophie Rowell

Live in your home for a bit of time before contacting a designer or architect. It’s important to understand how you will utilize a space with your daily routine over time. No need to jump into renovations right away. – Patrick Bernatz Ward

A potted begonia or geranium should be the only house plants allowed. – Grier Stockman

Dinnerware, mugs, and glassware don’t have to match. I love the look of mismatched items because it feels like a real collection and has a story to tell, instead of just a set of 12 white plates or bowls. – Katie Bowes

What is ugly today will look interesting tomorrow. It is is important to search what is under the radar. – Pablo López and Iñigo Aragón

You don’t need to follow design trends, ever. – Ajiri Aki 

I really don’t think there’s ever a need to stain wood floors. Just get the wood species that is the color you want, or let it naturally age. Stained floors just don’t wear well in my experience. – Helen Rice

Try not to focus on what’s trendy. Buy what you like. Trends go in and out of fashion and you’ll frustrate yourself trying to keep up. I know people often factor in the resale appeal when doing things like remodeling a kitchen, but you have to live with it, so get what you like. – Ferren Gipson

Dark paint does not make rooms look smaller: It makes them more interesting and cohesive. We’re both very into the immersive paint trend; it hides so many construction flaws and imperfect walls while giving personality and depth.  – Hollister and Porter Hovey

Keep all original features, including the ones you might find ugly. Fashions change and period details should be preserved. – Clare de Boer

There is never a single “right” design or decision. Thinking that there is brings so much unnecessary stress to the design process. Realizing that many different paths can all lead to happiness, comfort, and beauty allows the design to unfold organically without the pressure of fearing mistakes. – Maria Berman and Brad Horn

See the first six months of Quick Takes, right over here. Featured photo from The Table as a Space Where All Are Welcome: Ajiri Aki on Design.