An interior designer with 27 years of experience shares 10 things he'd never have in his own home

This seasoned designer tries to avoid certain trends, such as open shelving.

Joe Schmelzer/Getty Images Business Insider asked interior designer Benji Lewis what things he'd never have in his home.

He said he generally avoids most accent walls, signs with affirmations, and porcelain tile.

The designer said passes on impractical oversize floor lamps and bulky retro statement pieces.

Whether you're renovating your first home or redecorating your well-loved space, tracking the latest interior-design trends can start to feel somewhat intimidating.

The good news is that there are many trends that you can — and perhaps should — confidently let pass you by.

For a cheat sheet on which ones may be worth skipping, Business Insider asked Benji Lewis , a UK-based interior designer who has worked in luxury design for over 27 years, what trends and items he stays away from in his own home.

Here's what he had to say.

Accent walls can leave a room feeling unfinished.

Larry Williams & Associates/Getty Images Lewis said he would "generally avoid" accent walls.

Accent walls, especially ones with a small floral pattern or geometric print, can make a space look unfinished or suggest a lack of confidence in your design choice, he said.

If he were to try one, he'd do so "very carefully" and opt for a panoramic wallpaper, which features a scenic mural spanning multiple panels that must be carefully lined up, as an alternative way to make a statement in a space.

These can get expensive, he said, but high-quality ones featuring animals, nature, and fantastical scenes can really elevate a space and look "iconic." Lewis wouldn't have a fully fitted kitchen without a freestanding piece — preferably a vintage one.

A vintage piece of furniture can make a kitchen feel more elevated.