Shared Living Decor Choices Spark Regular Arguments Among Brits, Poll Reveals
Living with housemates in shared accommodation often leads to spirited disagreements over interior design choices, with the color of walls being the primary source of contention, according to a survey of 1,000 individuals.
These decor disputes arise roughly every four months on average, underscoring the importance of harmony in shared living spaces.
Interior Discord: What Gets People Talking
In shared living arrangements, 20% of respondents found themselves at odds over the number of cushions to adorn the sofa, while 24% engaged in debates about furniture arrangement. An additional 15% butted heads over curtain colors.
Similar clashes emerged about hiding ‘unsightly’ appliances (15%), determining wall art placements (17%), and even deciding whether to showcase personal photos or opt for real or artificial houseplants (both choices selected by 11%).
Moreover, 15% admitted to spending money on decor that matched their housemate’s preferences but not their own, while 17% confessed to avoiding consultation on design decisions, such as painting walls.
Seeking Harmony Amidst Decor Diversity
Deborah Dolce, group director at Homesense, the organization behind the research, highlighted the significance of creating a welcoming and comfortable living space for overall well-being. A remarkable 25% of respondents, however, acknowledged that they’ve clashed with housemates over decor choices.
The findings revealed that 51% of participants believed having a similar design taste to their cohabitants was vital. For 54%, this shared preference provided a sense of belonging in their living environment, and 42% believed it led to fewer disagreements.
Top 15 Decor Disputes Among Housemates
- Wall color (51%)
- Furniture arrangement (24%)
- Curtains or blinds (22%)
- Decorative items on surfaces (22%)
- Cushion count on sofas (20%)
- Open or closed internal doors (18%)
- Surface decorations (18%)
- Placement of wall art/prints (17%)
- Curtain color (15%)
- Storage of ‘ugly’ appliances (15%)
- Displayed photos (11%)
- Choice of throws (11%)
- Warm vs. cold lightbulbs (11%)
- Real vs. fake houseplants (11%)
- Preferred fragrances (11%)
Striking a Balance
Eight percent of respondents refused to compromise on their decorating preferences. Dolce advised initiating discussions about style and decor before moving in together. Collaboratively shopping for decor and furnishings can be an enjoyable way to prevent potential conflicts down the line.
Unveiling Decor Personalities
Survey participants described themselves with various decor inclinations, with 30% identifying as ‘minimalists,’ drawn to serene, Scandinavian-inspired decor marked by clean lines, neutral tones, and simplicity. Meanwhile, 18% embraced ‘naturalist’ aesthetics, bringing the outdoors inside with earthy tones and natural textures, complemented by greenery and floral accents.
Only a minority (5%) fell into the ‘maximalist’ category, opting for bold, vibrant decor characterized by bright colors, quirky items, and eclectic patterns.
The survey was conducted by OnePoll.com.