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Decoration

7 most common mistakes in the first apartment — and how to avoid them!

Planning, observation and respect for real needs are fundamental allies to avoid mistakes in assembling the first apartment

By CASACOR Publisher

Submitted at Dec 3, 2025, 9:30 AM

08 min de leitura
Roberta Alonso - Casa Bem Vivida Electrolux. Projeto da CASACOR RIbeirão Preto 2025.

Roberta Alonso - Casa Bem Vivida Electrolux. Projeto da CASACOR RIbeirão Preto 2025. (Divulgação/CASACOR)

The first apartment is the dream of many Brazilians, and when it comes true, it evokes enthusiasm, but inexperience and haste to see everything in place can directly influence the comfort and functionality of the projects. At this initial moment, it is common for the lack of knowledge and anxiety to lead to little strategic choices. Understanding these points avoids rework and contributes to more coherent and well-utilized spaces.

Ana Paula Paolinelli - Singular Space. Project from CASACOR Minas Gerais 2025.

Ana Paula Paolinelli - Espaço Singular. Projeto da CASACOR Minas Gerais 2025. (Estúdio NY18/CASACOR)

By observing the most recurring slips, it is possible to perceive how simple adjustments improve the routine without major interventions. From furniture to the use of light, each aspect composes a essential stage of this beginning of domestic life. Next, the 7 most common mistakes in the first apartment and the best tips and inspirations to avoid them.

1. Buying all the furniture before living in the space


In the first apartment, many decisions are made even before understanding the dynamics of the projects. This leads to purchasing complete sets, which may not meet the real needs of daily life. Without knowing the circulation or how the space will be used, it is common for the furniture to become excessive or inadequate.

Renovation in a 1130 sq ft apartment creates a cozy home for mother and daughter. Project by Rafael Ramos. In the photo, living room with integrated kitchen and slatted cabinetry.

Reforma em apê de 105 m² cria lar aconchegante para mãe e filha. Projeto de Rafael Ramos. Na foto, sala com cozinha integrada e marcenaria ripada. (Fotos: Anita Soares / Produção visual: Studio Jefferson Stunner/CASACOR)

When purchases happen gradually, there is more clarity about what really works. The space gains visual coherence, the choices become more intentional, and each piece begins to make sense within the routine.

2. Underestimating the importance of circulation


It is common to set up the layout of the first apartment thinking only about fitting the furniture, and not about freedom of movement. By creating physical barriers, the home becomes less practical and more exhausting in everyday life.

Ary Polis Jacobs and Renan C. Mutao - Being Gourmet. Project of CASACOR Paraná 2025.

Ary Polis Jacobs e Renan C. Mutao - Estar Gourmet. Projeto da CASACOR Paraná 2025. (Guilherme Rocha/CASACOR)

Prioritizing fluid paths and open areas, the space gains comfort and organization. Good circulations also enhance the furniture and make coexistence lighter.

3. Betting on colors without considering lights and proportion


The choice of colors in the first apartment usually follows wished references, but reality does not always accompany the imaginary. Dark tones in small or poorly lit projects can create a sense of compression, while very vibrant colors can tire quickly.

Aconchegos Portinari. Très Arquitetura - CASACOR SP 2021

Aconchegos Portinari. Très Arquitetura - CASACOR SP 2021 (MCA Estúdio/CASACOR)

When the palette takes into account the natural brightness and the proportion of the space, the home gains harmony. Colors tested on the wall and observed throughout the day prevent surprises and help to compose a functional and pleasant environment.

4. Ignoring the importance of lighting


The lighting is often left for later, as if it were just a decorative detail. However, in the first apartment, it is decisive for the perception of amplitude, comfort, and well-being. A single central light leaves the projects flat and uninviting.

Amanda Miranda - Chef's Kitchen - Roots. CASACOR Rio de Janeiro 2023 project.

Amanda Miranda - Cozinha do Chef - Raízes. Projeto da CASACOR Rio de Janeiro 2023. (André Nazareth/CASACOR)

Layered lighting delicately solves this problem: table lamps, sconces, and indirect light create more varied atmospheres adjusted to the rhythm of the home. Combined with natural light, these solutions transform the experience of living.

5. Not checking measurements before purchases


One of the most frequent mistakes is acquiring furniture based solely on what appears proportional in the store. In the first apartment, this lack of measurement results in sofas larger than the project can accommodate, tables that block passages, and cabinets impossible to transport.

Daniel de Castro Cunha Architecture and Interiors - Urban Office of a Young Amazon. CASACOR São Paulo 2025 Project.

Daniel de Castro Cunha Arquitetura e Interiores - Escritório Urbano de uma Jovem Amazona. Projeto da CASACOR São Paulo 2025. (Carolina Mossin/CASACOR)

Measuring walls, doors, and circulation areas avoids frustrations and ensures that the furniture fits correctly. This simple care reorganizes expectations and ensures a fluid home from the beginning.

6. Overdoing the quantity of objects


It is common for the first apartment to receive many decorative items at once, either due to excitement or the desire for filling. The result is a heavy space, which hampers organization and compromises circulation.

Paloma Estrela - Casa Cacho by Fina Casa. Project from CASACOR Ceará 2025.

Paloma Estrela - Casa Cacho por Fina Casa. Projeto da CASACOR Ceará 2025. (Felipe Petrovsky/CASACOR)

The visual decluttering brings lightness and highlights the elements that truly represent the personality of the inhabitants. Projects that breathe tend to be more warm and functional, valuing each choice.

7. Forgetting storage spaces


Many residents only realize the lack of storage after settling in the first apartment. Without designated places to store, items accumulate quickly and make the space visually cluttered.

Carla Grüdtner - Kitchen. CASACOR Paraná 2025 Project.

Carla Grüdtner - Cozinha. Projeto da CASACOR Paraná 2025. (Eduardo Macarios/CASACOR)

Multifunctional pieces, tall shelves, internal organizers, and discreet trunks help create an efficient storage logic. Predictability facilitates daily routines and keeps the home atmosphere always light.

CASACOR Publisher is an exclusive content creator agent, developed by the CASACOR Technology team based on the knowledge base from casacor.com.br. This text was edited by Yeska Coelho.