When we stumbled upon these building design photos online, we could hardly believe our eyes. These architectural choices fail on so many levels that it’s hard to imagine how they made it past the planning stage. From poorly executed measurements to questionable layouts, it’s clear that attention to detail was not a priority.
Even more surprising is how these properties were presented—substandard photography and uninspired decorating did little to hide the flaws. It’s almost as if the designers and homeowners forgot the basics of functionality and aesthetics. Whether these are accidents or attempts at bold creativity, the results are truly baffling. Take a closer look at these unbelievable designs and decide if they’re fascinating or simply flawed!
Refuge or Dumping Ground?
What could this room possibly be for? Is it a sanctuary for parents seeking a brief escape from their children, retreating to the one place they won’t be followed? Or is it an improvised space for aging family members, tucked away in a corner of the house rather than being sent to a retirement home?
Designed as an all-in-one “retreat,” it seems to offer everything needed for comfort—high-back chairs for reading, food and water bowls for pets, and a pleasingly tidy décor. However, sharing space with visible plumbing fixtures like toilets and bidets hardly creates a relaxing atmosphere. Whether refuge or a space of convenience, it leans more toward resembling a prison cell than a cozy haven.
A Veil of Secrecy
It seems the builder of this home took a shortcut to pass building inspections, opting for a fake ventilation panel instead of complying with national ventilation regulations. Unbelievable as it sounds, who would think to check vents in a newly constructed home? This serves as a valuable lesson for potential buyers: always hire a reputable professional to thoroughly inspect a property before signing any contracts.
While it might seem like an added expense, it’s far better than dealing with costly surprises later. A proper inspection ensures you won’t be left sweating through the summer—or worse, facing health risks due to inadequate ventilation. In this case, a little due diligence goes a long way!
Get It Right the First Time, or Else
How did this design go so terribly wrong? It’s clear no professional guidance was sought when creating this entryway. The awkward layout seems destined to give the homeowner moments of frustration, especially late at night or after a few drinks. One misstep, and they’re spending the night outside! We can only imagine how many house keys—or other small items—have slipped through that grid below.
Entryways are meant to feel welcoming and appealing, but this one stands out for all the wrong reasons. Surprisingly, the owner hasn’t taken steps to improve it. Even a simple doormat could have added charm and solved the key-dropping hazard. It’s a stark reminder that small details can make a big difference!
Scary Like Hell
Imagine stumbling upon this eerie scene. As a potential buyer, you uncover a peculiar, spacious area beneath the house. Or perhaps as the new owner, while clearing the space, you peel back the old flooring to reveal a satanic symbol painted on the floor. The discovery would undoubtedly send chills down your spine.
Its dungeon-like qualities—being underground, private, and expansive—make it unnervingly suited for rituals or sinister activities. The mind races, wondering what might have happened here and what other unsettling surprises could be hidden. For most, the unease would be hard to shake, though a brave few might dismiss it as nothing more than a peculiar storage area—or perhaps an unconventional man cave. Would you dare to stay?
A Smart Prison Perhaps?
Is this a luxury prison block catering to affluent inmates or former celebrities who prefer to pay for a more comfortable “sentence”? Each two-story, cell-like unit boasts a wooden front door, personalized doormat, and decorative cell number—hardly standard prison fare. From the upper-level balconies, residents can wave to their neighbors and engage in casual chats, adding a touch of community to their confinement.
Or perhaps it’s a modern apartment complex designed with interior balconies to encourage neighborly interactions or provide a view of atrium activities like Pilates classes, product demonstrations, or social events. While tidy and well-maintained, its clinical feel raises questions—could it be an isolation facility where only those deemed “cured” are allowed balcony privileges?
Under the Illusion
This bathroom is a guaranteed nightmare for anyone under the influence! Imagine the confusion as someone hesitantly navigates the space, unsure where the floor ends or if they’re about to step into a bottomless pit. It’s easy to picture someone testing the illusion by dropping an object down the “hole,” only to discover it’s not what it seems.
This dizzying design effectively discourages lingering—forget about long phone calls or leisurely scrolling while seated. The unsettling feeling of standing on the edge ensures visitors will be in and out quickly—if they’re brave enough to use it at all! While it’s a clever optical trick, it’s not exactly the most inviting bathroom experience.
Missing the Steps
This renovation is certainly unique, considering its challenging location and narrow, carpet-covered steps. However, its purpose remains a mystery. The addition of a railing suggests it might serve as an exercise tool or a space for acrobatic, balancing, or even ballet practice.
If it’s meant to be a catwalk, it’s unlike any typical design—and, let’s be honest, cats don’t need railings. For humans, using it as a staircase seems impractical and potentially hazardous, inviting more stumbles than successful climbs. If it’s intended as a decorative feature, it falls short of making an aesthetic statement, appearing more like a construction mishap than intentional design. Unfortunately, this seems less like a clever idea and more like a literal misstep!
When Privates Are Not Private
We’ve all heard of family-sized bathrooms, but this one truly leaves us puzzled. Featuring two wash basins, two toilets, and a bidet in a single space, it’s certainly unconventional. The idea of multiple people using it simultaneously feels cramped and chaotic. But what exactly was the intent behind this design? Could it be the only bathroom in the house, meant to accommodate a parent and child at once?
Perhaps it’s designed for individuals of vastly different heights—one very tall and one very short? And what happens when someone faces an urgent need while it’s already occupied? Let’s not dwell too much on that scenario! One thing’s for sure—this bathroom raises more questions than it answers.
When There’s Too Much Space
If the goal for this space was to provide plenty of open room for kids to run, play, and chase each other without obstacles, then it undoubtedly delivers. However, as a family living area, it feels overly spacious, with no kitchen in sight and an almost overwhelming emptiness. While mirrors are typically used to brighten, expand, or create a focal point, this particular mirror only emphasizes the vastness of the room, making it feel even more vacant.
Perhaps the owner plans to furnish it more fully, or the architect had something other than a traditional family in mind during the design process. One thing is certain—this room seems more suited for Snow White and her seven dwarfs than a typical household!
Mind the Step
These homeowners clearly refused to let a wrong-sized door go to waste. Instead of exchanging it for the correct fit, they went to the extreme of altering the floor level to make it work—an impractical and expensive solution. Unfortunately, this “fix” has created a serious hazard. The uneven flooring poses a significant trip risk, especially at night or after a few drinks.
One misstep could result in severe injury, making the decision to keep the door not just foolish, but potentially dangerous. What’s more, the cost and effort of adjusting the floor far outweigh the simplicity of purchasing a correctly sized door. Hopefully, they’ve invested in some solid medical insurance to cover any accidents caused by this ill-advised choice!
Left to Guess the Rest
This elegant kitchen appears to be brand-new, set in a freshly constructed home. The sleek coffee, cream, and chocolate color palette adds a touch of modern sophistication. With its extra-large ceiling fan, cooking here would surely be a cool and comfortable experience, even on the hottest summer days. But what’s with the defaced white wall?
Was this the work of a passing graffiti artist, or could it be a message intentionally left for the homeowner? The partially obscured writing leaves much to the imagination, and its tone feels unsettling. Let’s hope it’s nothing too rude or ominous and that this stylish kitchen gets the respect it deserves!
Stairway to Heaven?
Someone was determined to add an extra toilet to this house, but the location they chose raises some serious questions. Installed in a cramped cupboard-like space next to the stairs and above floor level, this toilet offers no privacy at all. The door can’t even close properly, and accessing it requires awkwardly climbing over a makeshift, unstable opening. Let’s just hope the plumbing never fails!
As for the stairs—where do they lead, and why is there no banister rail? The steep, narrow treads and risers make navigating this staircase an unnerving experience. It’s clear that whoever designed it didn’t take safety into consideration. It’s a bit too late now, but hiring a professional would have been the smarter choice!
Make It Functional
It seems likely that this homeowner ran out of funds during construction, leaving the project unfinished at level two and putting level three on hold until finances allowed for completion. Otherwise, it’s hard to explain this oddly designed, functionless space. While it’s nicely finished with coordinating safety railings and flooring, it’s unclear what purpose it serves. Why not make better use of it?
A couple of bulky cushions or bean bags could transform it into a cozy reading nook or a small play area for kids with a locking gate. It’s a missed opportunity for functionality. But perhaps the homeowner is still considering all options and hasn’t yet decided what to do with this awkward space.
A Home-Grown Enterprising Solution?
When urgent repairs are needed but the budget is tight, sometimes an alternative, more economical solution is the only option. That’s when raiding your garage or storage room might seem like a good idea. After all, isn’t the purpose of holding on to old items—to use them when necessary?
This resourceful homeowner found a creative way to repurpose a long-forgotten fridge, using it to support a wooden deck. Sturdy and just the right height, it seems like a temporary fix—but for how long? Will this makeshift solution hold up until the deck is properly repaired, or will the fridge—and the unfinished project—be passed on to the next owner? If the house even sells, that is!
A Must-Have Ceiling Fan
It seems installing this ceiling fan was a DIY project that turned into a major headache for the homeowner. After much effort, the fan was finally installed and switched on—but that’s when the problem became apparent. In his determination to make it work, the homeowner decided the best solution was to carve out a space in the beam for the fan to pass through.
But, wait—this wasn’t just any beam, it was a support beam holding up the roof! Now, with two-thirds of the beam removed, he may have solved the fan issue temporarily, but the real danger is that the roof could come crashing down at any moment. Hopefully, this DIY enthusiast doesn’t have to learn the hard way!
Answering the Call of Nature
Unless this house is home to a large family or there’s a shortage of bathrooms, the setup of this bathroom seems to be designed for those who urgently need to go but just can’t make it upstairs in time. The homeowner must have seen no waste in terms of space—though the lack of privacy is definitely a concern. Visitors might not be surprised to hear the bathroom is “just at the top of the stairs,” as it literally is.
However, the lack of privacy could be a major turn-off. For a prospective homebuyer, this could either land at the top of their demolition list or spark ideas for a much-needed renovation. Either way, it’s likely to leave an impression—hopefully a fixable one!
Construction Gone Wrong
Did this homeowner really need to nearly demolish an exterior wall just to mount a TV? Even an amateur should know their limits, but maybe it was a dare, or perhaps they were a bit too tipsy and thought it was a great idea at the time.
What they didn’t anticipate was the horrifying aftermath. No consideration was given to the practicality of mounting a bulky CRT TV outside, exposed to the elements—rain, snow, high winds, and even lightning! The installation was unbalanced and poorly thought out, leaving the TV vulnerable. Seeing the mess they created and the cost to fix it must have been a real wake-up call. What a major mistake!
Too Many Doors in a Bedroom
Just take a look at all those doors! Is this homeowner a huge fan of doors, or could they be suffering from omniphobia? It seems they’ve gone out of their way to ensure every potential disadvantage of a closed bedroom is accounted for. With all these doors, the house benefits from excellent air circulation, ensuring that carbon dioxide—often the culprit behind headaches and stuffiness—never builds up overnight.
Open doors allow you to hear children waking up, mysterious noises, or even the faintest sign of a fire, providing multiple escape routes. However, for those who follow Feng Shui, having too many doors in a bedroom can drain energy, and finding the perfect bed placement here might be nearly impossible!
Bath Pods for Teeny-Weenies
This bathroom appears to be designed with a child or a dwarf in mind, given its mini-sized fixtures and low placement. The cocoon-like bathtub offers a secure space, preventing anyone from falling out or slipping under the water, and the handrail adds an extra layer of safety. The compact design is neat and efficient, just large enough for a smaller adult to assist or supervise.
While the innovative pod concept is a clever touch, the color scheme falls short. The dull and drab hues don’t create the fresh, soothing atmosphere we would have hoped for in such a thoughtfully designed space. A little more attention to color could have made a world of difference!
Miss Piggy, Go Home
Pigs are social animals, spending about 70 percent of their day exploring and rooting for food, with a long midday rest. Yet, this particular pig seems to have embraced some pandemic isolation, indulging in an extended snooze indoors. The state of the room suggests the pig’s stay has been going on for quite some time, resembling nothing more than a messy pigsty. It’s hard to say why, but a man looking at this photo of a pig resting inside was actually tempted to buy the property.
Perhaps the idea of a pet-friendly home seemed appealing at first, but he quickly reconsidered and decided to sell once he couldn’t stop the pig from returning. Maybe this was the third little pig, just trying to hide from the big bad wolf!
Burnt Offerings Coming Up
Here’s another DIY project gone wrong, clearly handled by someone with little experience! It looks like the homeowner needed to replace a burner top but didn’t buy the right replacement. Still, determined to move forward, they installed it without considering the proper fit. The result? A significant misalignment!
The burner plates don’t align properly with the demarcated rings, and the top two plates are placed much too close together. This doesn’t just look off—it’s a safety hazard! It’s definitely time for a professional to take a look before the burner is used. Let’s hope they act quickly before any damage is done!
What Hides Behind
This situation is a perfect example of why you should never sign an offer to purchase a home before having it thoroughly inspected by a reputable, professional home inspection company. A detailed inspection can uncover shortcuts and hidden flaws that sellers may try to disguise to secure a higher price than the property truly deserves.
It’s definitely worth the investment! This also highlights the importance of testing everything in the home—open and shut all doors, windows, and cupboards, check the appliances, keys, and alarms, inspect the plumbing, flush the toilets, and try out the stove, grill, hot plates, extractor fan, and microwave. How did the owners think they could get away with hiding an old microwave behind a false front? Absolutely unbelievable!
In the Privy
Is this another case of a DIY novice at work? Perhaps the installer left the door open because it was hot, needed better visibility, or simply forgot it was open. Or maybe parents wanted to keep an eye on their child who’s just learning to use the toilet independently. Whatever the reason, if this is a mistake, it seems like an easy fix.
All that’s needed is to unscrew the hinges, lift the door out, and reposition it in a semi-closed position in front of the toilet bowl before screwing the hinges back on. No need to call in a professional for this one—it’s a simple, DIY fix!
Decorating With Patterns
While skilled interior decorators can often create a stylish, relaxed ambiance by using a single, repeating patterned fabric, many home design experts recommend incorporating at least three patterns to give a room personality, life, and energy. Using too few patterns or colors can result in a room that feels flat and lifeless. However, this homeowner clearly doesn’t follow that rule. It’s easy to see which pattern is their favorite—it’s everywhere!
From the walls and curtains to the ceiling, bedding, and bed skirt, the same floral motif in muted shades dominates the space. While excessive patterning often overwhelms a room, there are exceptions. So, how do you feel about this floral motif—does it seem visually appealing, calming, and impactful, or is it just too much?
Lying in State
The state of this carpet is undeniably unsettling, almost as if a body was dragged across it and out of the room. One might wonder whose body it could be and where it is now—though, on second thoughts, maybe it’s better not to ask. Could it still be in the house? And what is that eerie sight in the hallway? It certainly doesn’t help to ease the tension.
Few would feel eager to tour this property. Only the bravest or most daring might consider it, especially with the chilling atmosphere lingering over the space. Plus, prospective buyers are likely to be put off by the substantial costs of fixing it up, starting with replacing the carpets. Who knows what else might be hidden, both inside and outside the house?
Too Hot or What?
At first glance, this property looks great, especially with its large, well-maintained pool. But what’s with all the unusual debris at the bottom of the pool? Are those poolside loungers? Did the heat of the day make them too hot to touch, so the owners just tossed them in to cool off? Or maybe it was the aftermath of a tantrum?
Then there are those lounger cushions, half-submerged in the water. Surely, the owners realize that soaking cushions won’t make for good floaters? Or perhaps they think the pool will help clean them? If these cushions are intended to be homemade slides for kids, they’ll only work for a short time before slipping off the edge into the water. It’s all quite bizarre!
A Cool Appliance or Not?
Some people swear by air conditioning, while others prefer the gentle breeze of ceiling fans to keep their homes cool. This homeowner, however, seems to be a huge fan enthusiast—so much so that this particular fan looks like it’s seen better days. It’s worn out to the point where it’s practically begging for retirement. Could it have been a bargain buy, a gift, or just a cheap purchase?
Was there a heatwave this summer? Perhaps that explains the fan’s nearly melted appearance. But how did this homeowner manage with such an ineffective cooling mechanism? Hopefully, no tall people live here—otherwise, they may still be nursing bruised heads or stooping down to avoid the blades. This fan has definitely expired; it’s time for it to go!
A Safety Hazard
Is it really necessary to have so many fire extinguishers in one home, or is the homeowner simply a collector of them? While we all know the saying “prevention is better than cure,” stacking a bunch of fire extinguishers in one place is hardly a sensible safety measure—it just seems excessive and impractical.
What does this picture say to potential buyers? While great advertising is meant to draw people in, this photo only suggests that the house is unsafe and prone to fire hazards. Rather than enticing buyers, it’s likely to drive them away. After all, who would want to risk purchasing such an expensive property if they suspect it might be a fire hazard?
A Mirrored View
Heaven help anyone who’s had a bit too much to drink and urgently needs to use this bathroom! This hall of mirrors is likely to leave even the most sober person feeling lost and disoriented. As they stumble around, trying to find the door, they’ll be caught in a maze of reflections. On the other hand, narcissists will be in paradise here, surrounded by endless images of themselves from every angle.
If your greatest wish is to be the most beautiful person in the world, then just ask any of these mirrors, “Mirror, mirror on the wall, who’s the fairest of them all?” The answer will undoubtedly be “You,” with no one else even coming close, as your reflection is everywhere in this mirror-filled bathroom.
Collector or Hoarder?
This homeowner clearly has a passion for collecting furniture, indoor plants, and vases of fresh flowers—so much so that it’s starting to take over the space. Soon, they may not be able to sit at the dining table or even move through the room without dodging obstacles. The overwhelming clutter is definitely a designer’s nightmare.
Interior designers often advise against overcrowding a room, stressing that too much furniture can disrupt the flow and hinder proper ventilation. For this homeowner, navigating through the room must be a challenge, as they carefully sidestep the collection of items without knocking anything over. They’re definitely pushing the limits of space here!
Shaded in Pink
Where exactly is this room? Is it a movie set or a museum displaying rooms from the homes of the 17th-century elite? And what’s the deal with the CRT television and window shutters—these obvious anachronisms don’t quite fit in with the period decor. This can only be the home of someone who’s deeply passionate about that historical era.
The ornate furnishings and decorations would likely baffle most people today, including interior designers. From the mannequin dressed in period costume to the monkey in a pirate’s outfit, the ceiling portraits, and the wall art, this room feels firmly rooted in another time. The somewhat pink, monochromatic color scheme further limits its appeal, likely attracting only a small pool of potential buyers who share the homeowner’s love for this unique and eccentric aesthetic.
Peeping Tom
Here’s a view of the property’s backyard patio taken from the laundry room, but wait—what’s that? Is someone peeping from behind the door, or is it just our imagination? It’s such a tight space, how could they expect to be excluded from the photo? Or maybe they peeked out thinking the photo was already taken?
Perhaps the real issue lies with the real estate photographer. Are they an amateur or new to the job, unaware of the proper guidelines? The purpose of real estate photography is to showcase the home for potential buyers, so the focus should be entirely on the property. Personal elements—whether it’s people, pets, or even the photographer—should never make an appearance, including any unexpected peepers!
These Animals Are Here to Stay
Disputes with neighbors are always unpleasant, and while some can be resolved easily, others can make life uncomfortable and stressful. Some neighbors are understanding, while others are not. To avoid ongoing issues, it’s always best to maintain a good relationship with those around you for peaceful living.
It seems this farmer may have had some previous run-ins with neighbors who complained about his animals, and those experiences were likely unpleasant enough that he doesn’t want to go through them again. As a result, he’s put up a clear warning board—letting potential buyers know that if they’re not fond of animals or their habits, this is not the place for them. These animals are here to stay, and he’s making it clear!
Take a Second Look
He definitely got this wrong! At first glance, it looks like green gas slowly rising from the lawn, giving the impression of some strange, toxic phenomenon. But take a second look, and it becomes clear—it’s someone’s botched attempt at photo editing. This is a classic “how-not-to” lesson in trying to turn an unhealthy, ugly lawn into a lush, vibrant one with limited editing skills.
While a photo can create an impression, the reality is another story. What did the photographer think would happen if this image actually enticed a potential buyer to view the property? On the other hand, maybe the intention was to attract Martians or the “little green men” to visit the property—or perhaps even encourage Shrek to make this green zone his new home!
Horror House or Family Home?
At first glance, this property may look derelict and abandoned, but it seems to have a solid structure. With a lot of hard cleaning, care, and attention, it could be restored to its former glory. As it stands, though, it would make a fantastic movie set or fit right in with the eerie atmosphere of a ghost or haunted house tour.
But clearly, someone wasn’t too afraid to visit—it’s possible that while walking around, the unsettling vibe of the place became overwhelming, causing them to abandon their red bicycle and make a hasty exit. If you’re considering buying this property and turning it into a family home, it might be a good idea to have an exorcist come in and cleanse the space—just to be on the safe side!
Wired Up
Art has a unique way of capturing an artist’s perception of the world. It’s fascinating how an artist can look at the same scene as us but translate it into something entirely different through their work. We admire and study the artwork, trying to decode what message the artist is conveying, just like in this piece.
It’s almost unbelievable that this artist was inspired by something as ordinary as a plug point! What could have been a simple, everyday object has been transformed into a clever and amusing drawing that only takes a couple of minutes to appreciate—but leaves a lasting impression. The shocked expressions of the characters make it clear just how “wired up” they are—both literally and figuratively!
Magic Mushrooms?
Mushrooms are indeed classified as superfoods, packed with nutrients, fiber, antioxidants, and protein while being low in calories. They thrive in damp, humid environments, but one must always exercise caution when foraging for wild mushrooms, as some varieties can be poisonous and potentially deadly.
So, are these magic mushrooms, or have mushrooms simply found a way to grow in a derelict building? How did their spores end up in such a neglected space, and where is the owner of the property? Could it be that the resident has… expired, possibly after sampling one of these mushrooms? That might explain the unsavory, dilapidated state of the building. Despite the disarray, the mushrooms continue to thrive, adding a strange and eerie element to the scene.
Swimming Pool or Cess Pool?
This swimming pool has clearly seen better days. What was once a refreshing spot for a swim now looks like a breeding ground for all sorts of unpleasantness—likely an above-ground cesspool at this point. The green mess on top of the stagnant water makes it hard to imagine it has been in disuse for anything less than an extended period. The smell must be unbearable, so one has to wonder if the stench drove the owners away. Have the neighbors complained about the foul odor, or have they simply become used to it?
We shudder at the thought of the insects, mosquitoes, bacteria, and parasites that are probably thriving in that stagnant water. Swimming here? Definitely not! Of course, we could be wrong—perhaps this is just an innovative biodiversity experiment, designed to study what kinds of plant and animal life thrive in lurid green, stagnant pool water. But somehow, that seems a bit too optimistic!
Following the Wrong Path
It’s a classic case of “you get what you pay for.” This is a prime example of how accepting a cheap quote can lead to much bigger expenses down the line. The work may have been affordable, but now the homeowner is faced with the daunting task of trying to fix a structure that’s completely useless and unusable.
Accurate measurement and planning are the foundations of any successful building project, so what went wrong here? Was the bricklayer working alone, with no one to point out the misalignment? Did he possibly have impaired vision or was he even intoxicated during the build? Was he truly a qualified bricklayer, or just someone desperate for work? It’s hard to believe he didn’t notice the mistakes along the way before the job was finished. Needless to say, we won’t be recommending him anytime soon!
