20 Design Mistakes (and What They Teach Us About Good Design)

These 20 design mistakes aren’t just entertaining—they highlight what actually matters when planning a functional, well-designed home.

No. 1 | This just hurts! Even the microwave is shocked!

aprilcotz

No. 2 | I guess that's... convenient?

Henry Franks

NO. 3 | if this is their bathroom... I wonder what their car looks like!​

Czechs_out

NO. 4 | i have a love hate relationship with this kitchen...​

DrFetusRN

NO. 5 | Do not, i repeat, do not use a black light on the carpet! gag.​

jbird2525

I have so many questions!  The most important one…

NO. 6 | guys... the doorway is drunk again...​

bored panda

NO. 7 | why did lion king's "circle of life" song pop into my head?​

bored panda

NO. 8 | all i'm saying is don't complain when you get the urgent care bill...​

zillow

NO. 9 | this hurts my soul!!!!!!

SirCadwaladr

NO. 10 | a seemingly beautiful home...​

Realtor

that beautiful home's basement... oh boy!​

Realtor

NO. 12 | wash your hands and say your prayers...

Realtor

NO. 13 | washing your hands here is interesting...

Bagni orrendi anni '60/'70/'80

NO. 14 | this broke my mind...

Realtor

NO. 15 | listen... the tile was on sale!!

mayoroftuesday

NO. 16 | client: i don't want a mirror and i don't want to see the dirt..... tile guy: 'i got you!'

Bagni orrendi anni '60/'70/'80

NO. 17 | lining things up is overrated....

@pleasehatethesethings / Instagram

NO. 18 | umm can you turn the washer down please? i can't hear the tv...

@pleasehatethesethings / Instagram

NO. 19 | i guess when you really love something...

@pleasehatethesethings / Instagram

and last but certainly not least…

NO. 20 | if you know, you know... ha!

@pleasehatethesethings / Instagram

Which fail was your favorite?  Let me know in the comments section!

  • Jessie Ellis
    Jessie Ellis
    Founder | Architectural Designer

    Jessie Ellis is an architectural designer and founder of Gable Design. She helps homeowners and small businesses navigate design and construction decisions with clarity, confidence, and intention—before those decisions become expensive or overwhelming. Drawing from experience across residential and commercial projects, Jessie focuses on thoughtful planning that leads to calmer processes and better long-term outcomes.

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