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Building your own home is a dream for many, and it’s easy to see why. People pour in time, money, and a whole lot of energy to create a space that feels just right. But what happens when the very professionals you trust (architects and interior designers) end up turning that dream into something… questionable?

We’re talking about design fails that will make you do a double take. From windows placed in the most confusing spots to beds and layouts that make absolutely no sense, some of these choices are truly baffling. Honestly, a few of them might even make you wonder how they got approved in the first place. Today, we’ve scoured the internet to bring you some of the most unbelievable examples—consider this your checklist of what not to do. Maybe even show these to your contractor, just to be clear about what you definitely don’t want.

#1

Bathtub installed next to an open stairwell, a glaring home design disaster with poor safety and aesthetic appeal.

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Sara Frazer
Community Member
3 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

🎶And she's bathing the stairway, to heaven...🎶

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    While many of us were stuck at home during the pandemic, our daily routines took some interesting turns. Working from home meant more time in the kitchen (hello, dalgona coffee craze!) and many of us also picked up DIY home projects, from simple decor tweaks to full-on room makeovers. For a lot of people, it wasn’t just about passing time; it became a way to feel productive, creative, and in control of their space. Slowly, confidence grew, and taking on small projects didn’t feel so intimidating anymore.

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    And honestly, that newfound confidence makes moments like these even more ironic. Some of these design fails are so bad, they almost make you feel like you should just DIY everything. If this is what professionals come up with, maybe taking matters into your own hands doesn’t sound like such a bad idea after all.

    #4

    Light fixture hanging awkwardly from the ceiling medallion in a home design disaster lacking aesthetic appeal.

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    asdfghjkl
    Community Member
    3 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    how and why did this even happen 😭

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    #5

    Bathroom setup with toilet and sink placed at the top of stairs, illustrating a home design disaster and poor aesthetics.

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    Sue User
    Community Member
    3 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Why can't they just enclose it ? I know the window is there but putting a partition in middle of window has to be better than this.

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    In 2020, despite all the disruptions to the global economy and supply chains, the DIY and home improvement market still managed a staggering €701 billion in turnover. People everywhere were rolling up their sleeves, proving that even during a crisis, the urge to create and improve our spaces never goes away. DIY wasn’t just about making homes prettier; it became a way to cope with uncertainty, bring satisfaction, and feel productive when so much else felt out of control.

    #9

    Small refrigerator oddly recessed into wall between two doorways, showcasing a home design disaster.

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    David Paterson
    Community Member
    3 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Looks like there's a gap behind it for heat dissipation. Extra like because the bottom is off the ground so no back strain getting to the bottom shelf.

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    Fast forward to 2026, and DIY hasn’t lost its charm. Homeowners are juggling rising costs and economic pressures, but DIY remains a huge trend. Bored Panda spoke with Trupti Dipak Kokani, a home decor artist, who explained, “People today are more eco-conscious and selective about the products they choose. Their lifestyles are changing, and so are the ways they want to personalize their homes.” Sustainability, affordability, and creativity have become guiding principles, and people are looking for ways to make their spaces truly theirs.

    #10

    Old sink installed awkwardly inside a large hole cut unevenly in the wall showing a major home design disaster.

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    M M
    Community Member
    2 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Well finished this could be cool.

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    #11

    Toilet placed on carpeted stairs next to a small sink in a cramped space illustrating home design disasters and poor aesthetics.

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    Panda McPandaface
    Community Member
    2 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I get that there may be good reason to need the toilet elevated but that is no excuse for the carpet.

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    Trupti adds, “There’s a big desire for customized, unique pieces that reflect personal style. People aren’t just buying off the shelf anymore; they want homes that tell their story and evolve with them.” Whether it’s hand-painted wall art, upcycled furniture, or DIY lighting projects, homeowners are experimenting more than ever. The goal is to create spaces that feel lived-in, meaningful, and 100% personal, rather than cookie-cutter interiors.

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    Trupti, who often shares easy and budget-friendly decor ideas, says, “Many people are motivated to tackle projects because it saves money, of course. But honestly, the joy of doing the work yourself—watching an idea come to life—is unmatched.” Even small victories, like perfectly lining up a new shelf or successfully staining a table, bring a sense of pride. For many, DIY projects have become mini celebrations of creativity and accomplishment.

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    #16

    Narrow hallway with confusing carpeted staircase design illustrating home design disasters and poor aesthetics.

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    Ray Ceeya (RayCeeYa)
    Community Member
    3 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    MC Escher's great great grandson never lived up to his family's legacy.

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    She points out, “Access to high-quality tools and resources has never been easier. Instead of relying solely on contractors, people can learn almost anything online. YouTube tutorials, Instagram reels, and countless blogs make projects approachable, even fun.” And the best part? Mistakes don’t feel disastrous; they become part of the learning process. With so many resources, even a first-time DIYer can feel like a pro in their own home.

    #20

    Old stove placed next to a toilet in a small room, an example of bizarre home design disasters affecting aesthetics.

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    JL
    Community Member
    2 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    For when you just have to go but still need to keep an eye on your roast.

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    She continues, “DIY is also a way to relax. It’s a creative outlet after work, a fun couple’s activity, or even a family project. It gets people away from screens, lets them bond, and adds a personal touch to every corner of their home.” Kids can paint walls, partners can assemble furniture, and suddenly a home project becomes a shared adventure. Beyond aesthetics, it’s about making memories while transforming your living space.

    #22

    Unusual home design disaster featuring a bed with oversized toes as the base in a modern bedroom setting.

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    Sara Frazer
    Community Member
    3 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This is the first one on this list I absolutely genuinely hate with every fiber of my being

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    #24

    Dining area with table and chairs awkwardly placed near bathroom fixtures, a clear home design disaster lacking aesthetic appeal.

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    Richard Smith
    Community Member
    2 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You doing OK over there, Uncle Joe? Just fine...pass the mustard...

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    Trupti concludes, “At the end of the day, DIY is about expression, fun, and making a house feel like your own. It’s not just a trend; it’s a lifestyle. The beauty of doing it yourself is that every project is unique, just like the people creating it.” From small weekend tasks to larger renovations, DIY empowers people to take ownership of their environment.

    #25

    Old TV awkwardly recessed into a plain white wall, showcasing one of the many home design disasters lacking aesthetic appeal.

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    Paul Rabit
    Community Member
    2 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    There was a time when this would have been AWESOME.

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    Well, Trupti’s insights are definitely eye-opening, and it’s clear DIY and home projects can be both rewarding and tricky. Well, these posts show exactly what can go wrong when creativity meets overambition or a little carelessness. These design fails are equal parts questionable, hilarious, and downright shocking. We’d love to hear from you—what are your thoughts on these blunders? 

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    #32

    Awkward home design disasters showing warped kitchen cabinets with impractical aesthetics and unusual shapes.

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    Ray Ceeya (RayCeeYa)
    Community Member
    3 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Someone learned wood working for a very specific purpose.

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    #34

    Small seating area with chair, TV, and decor placed awkwardly on a high ledge, a home design disaster example.

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    Sara Frazer
    Community Member
    3 days ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I mean, if you can parkour it and don't mind heights that's a pretty sweet hangout nook. Me personally , I would turn it into a cat space

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    #36

    Staircase with bold leopard print carpet contrasting modern black railing and wooden floor in home design disaster.

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    Sara Frazer
    Community Member
    3 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    "What's wrong, babe? You haven't gone up the jaguairs..?"

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    #41

    Toilet with a transparent seat cover filled with gold flakes, showcasing a home design disaster lacking both sense and aesthetic appeal.

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    Gail Lott
    Community Member
    Premium
    3 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Oh lawd, I thought... nevermind

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    #43

    Staircase with black carpet strips and motivational home design text, illustrating a home design disaster.

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    Michael Largey
    Community Member
    2 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    "Love ... like you're going to fall down the stairs from not paying attention."

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    #44

    Empty room with zebra-striped ceiling and bright pink walls showcasing home design disasters and poor aesthetics.

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    LillieMean
    Community Member
    3 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I get a mental image of a woman with two bottles of hairspray in her hair and a cigarette dangerously close to her hair. A loose short-sleeved zebra-striped shirt, spandex pants, the same shade as the wall and lots of cheap gold-colored jewelry plus mint green bracelets. Patent leather shoes, gold-colored buckles with rhinestones.

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    #45

    Vintage wooden kitchen with mismatched appliances and overcomplicated stove hood design, showing home design disasters.

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    Ray Ceeya (RayCeeYa)
    Community Member
    3 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Who ever thought an Island Stove was a good idea needs to marry the person who thinks the Island Dishwasher is a good idea and then NEVER EVER reproduce.

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    #47

    Bathroom with bathtub and sink, featuring home design disasters with awkward steps leading up to a toilet.

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    SaintDaScug
    Community Member
    1 day ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Why the elevated toilet, and why is it so far from the sink?

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    #48

    Kitchen with a grill placed under a heavy vent hood in a tiled space showing one of the worst home design disasters.

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    Ray Ceeya (RayCeeYa)
    Community Member
    3 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I hope they have a Carbon Monoxide detector somewhere in the room.

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    #50

    Toilet placed on a raised platform in a small room with wooden cabinet and slanted ceiling, a clear home design disaster.

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    Sue User
    Community Member
    3 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    So many questions. And I am not sure I want the answers.

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    #52

    Bedroom with matching floral curtains, bedspread, and walls in a home design disaster lacking aesthetic appeal.

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    Dusty's mom
    Community Member
    3 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Kitty cat steps to the bed. Maybe a person with an elderly or disabled pet. But the decor needs a tone-down.

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    #54

    Kitchen with a refrigerator oddly framed by trim, highlighting one of the many home design disasters lacking aesthetic appeal.

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    Ray Ceeya (RayCeeYa)
    Community Member
    3 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Another one of these? There's no place for the fridge to dissipate heat.

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    #56

    Bathroom with matching bright yellow carpeted toilet cover and rug, showcasing one of the home design disasters.

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    JL
    Community Member
    2 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This is the kind of house where the owner serves those Jello molds with hotdogs and olives inside.

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    #57

    Bathroom with a damaged bathtub, old toilet, dirty floor, and a mounted deer head showcasing home design disasters.

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    Kaz
    Community Member
    2 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This makes me indescribably uncomfortable

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    #58

    Electrical outlet with a short, cut power cord plugged in, showcasing one of the worst home design disasters.

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    Panda McPandaface
    Community Member
    2 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I have a cable running through a hole in the wall like that to a room with no sockets.

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    #59

    House with a door installed high above ground level, an unusual home design disaster making zero sense visually.

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    Sue User
    Community Member
    3 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Back porch removed. Original design was probably okay.

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    #60

    Modern house with mismatched oversized columns creating a glaring home design disaster in the front yard exterior.

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    Huddo's sister
    Community Member
    3 days ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Horrible McMansion. Way too many of these in Australia. Used to be that everyone dreamed of at least a quarter acre block, now many have almost a quarter acre house!

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    #62

    Small bathroom with confusing wall signs and home design disasters showing poor aesthetic choices.

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    Kelly Scott
    Community Member
    2 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    If you need this much reminding, maybe you should still be in diapers.

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    #63

    Small kitchen with inconsistent cabinet design and mismatched red and white colors, a home design disaster example.

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    Ray Ceeya (RayCeeYa)
    Community Member
    3 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I don't hate this because of the colors. I hate it because you gotta be a freaking giant to reach those upper cabinets.

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    #65

    Living room with a tropical mural wall and large columns showing a striking home design disaster with mismatched styles.

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    Ray Ceeya (RayCeeYa)
    Community Member
    3 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The furniture is photoshopped. This is the kind of thing you see in a sales brochure for a McMansion.

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    #66

    Modern home design disaster with mismatched windows and awkward architectural lines in suburban setting.

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    Kelly Scott
    Community Member
    2 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Actually, with the upper right part extended up a little and with a roof over it, and a little more thought into the design, like make it into a Tudor house with different sections being brick and stucco and beamed, this might look really cute with all the nooks and crannies. Of course, those "things" holding up the second floor on the left would have to go but a few replacement corbels instead would be attractive.

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    #68

    Bedroom with a jacuzzi tub awkwardly placed next to the bed and a wall-mounted TV highlighting home design disasters.

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    turk
    Community Member
    2 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I had a hotel room with the hot tub in the bedroom.

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    #69

    Open kitchen with tile and carpet flooring transition creating a confusing home design disaster in an otherwise modern space.

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    Sara Frazer
    Community Member
    3 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    WHY are the sink and dishwasher over carpet??! AAAAAAHHHHH-

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    #70

    Air conditioner poorly installed in corner of pink room with floral wallpaper and lace curtains, home design disasters.

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    Sara Frazer
    Community Member
    3 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Hey, those wall-mounted air-conditioners aren't cheap, I bet they did this to cool two rooms for less...kinda brilliant if you can make it work...

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    #71

    Exercise equipment oddly placed in a spacious bathroom showcases one of many home design disasters lacking both function and aesthetic appeal.

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    Panda McPandaface
    Community Member
    2 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Doesn't look great but it seems as if it would serve it's purpose.

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    #74

    Door with a home design disaster showing an obstructed decorative wooden frame that affects door function.

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    ohlordylordy
    Community Member
    1 day ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I think this could be a way to keep a room ventilated but while also keeping the door shut.

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    #75

    Small door installed high on wall above tiled ledge, an unusual and confusing home design disaster in a modern living room.

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    Kim Kermes
    Community Member
    3 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Details: age of house, what's on the other side. Could be access to firewood?

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    #77

    Narrow staircase with a railing mounted in the middle, creating a confusing and impractical home design disaster.

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    Huddo's sister
    Community Member
    3 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It would at least let you be able to mount and clean any pictures you want to hang without getting a ladder/long handled tool out.

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    #78

    Balcony with a brick pillar bent awkwardly, illustrating a home design disaster that lacks both function and aesthetic appeal.

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    Sue User
    Community Member
    3 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This is done in hope if avoiding being spotted using it, as some places prohibit them.

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    #79

    Kitchen sink above dishwasher with empty racks and outdated wooden countertop, illustrating home design disasters and poor aesthetics.

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    ohlordylordy
    Community Member
    1 day ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Not physically possible, depth of sink bowl would take up top rack space of dishwasher. Cant be cut out since water runs through back and top of dishwasher. Photoshopped.

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