Design Rules You Don’t Need to Follow

 In Blog

Interior design is full of rules. Many people think that in order to create a beautiful and stylish space, they have to follow ALL of the rules. But this isn’t true! In fact, there are many interior design rules that you can break without penalty. 

So if you’re a rule-breaker and want to give your home a makeover, here are some of the most common interior design rules that you don’t have to follow. It may be time to break the norm!

  • You need matching furniture: One of the most common interior design rules that you can break without worry is the rule about using matching furniture. You can use a mix of different styles of furniture in order to create visual interest, and there’s no reason why you have to have all matching pieces. Sure, using all matching furniture can be a great way to create a cohesive and polished look in your space, but being eclectic can also add to the room’s visual appeal.
  • Keep everything in proportion: Another common rule that you don’t have to follow is the rule about proportion. Many people think that in order to create a balanced and harmonious space, every piece of furniture needs to be the same size or proportional. But this isn’t always true! There are many ways to achieve balance in a room without using furniture of the same size. If you love that oversized chair – go for it! Just look to see if a smaller couch makes more sense.
  • You must hang pictures at eye level: There are many different ways to hang pictures in a room, and there’s no one “right” way to do it. You can experiment with different heights and placements until you find something that you like. After all, eye level is different for every person!
  • Pick a design style and stick with it: Again, you don’t have to follow this rule. If you want to mix different design styles in your space, go for it! Do you like boho and modern farmhouse? Mix them! Do you like mid-century modern and minimalism? Go for it! As long as you like the look of your space, it doesn’t matter what other people think. 
  • Only use one type of wood in a room: Throw this rule out the window! If you want to use different types of wood in your space, by all means, do! As long as the colors and textures compliment each other, you’ll create a beautiful and unique space.
  • Use the same metal finish in your space: You can also break this rule without penalty. You can use brushed nickel, matte black, gold, brass – whatever you like. 
  • Use only light colors in a small room: If you want to use dark colors in a small room – you can! It was once thought that dark colors make a small room feel even smaller, but that doesn’t have to be the case when you have good lighting and furniture and accessories that work.  
  • Art should only be on walls: Display your art however you like. You can rest it on a bookshelf or even place oversized pieces on the floor.
  • Never use faux plants: Faux plants can be a great way to add color and texture to your room – and they require no care except for the occasional dusting. Great for those who don’t have green thumbs!

Now that you know some of the most common interior design rules that you don’t have to follow, go ahead and experiment! Be creative and have fun with your space. The only thing that matters is that you like the look of it. 

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