Rule followers, look away! While there are many guiding principles to interior design that can help set you on the right track, there are some rules that many designers say are meant to be broken. In fact, many of the old design rules are outdated and don’t allow room for today’s trends and tastes.
Current design trends allow more room for personality and less space for strict rules. Here’s the old design adages that just don’t add up with today’s popular aesthetics. Read on for a list of eight interior design rules to break, and what design pros say to do instead.
1. Match all your furniture in a room: Instead, you can mix and match different furniture and even eras for a more curated look. In fact, we love the style contrast that can be created by mixing design from different decades. For instance, an heirloom style chest or traditional accent chair can add variety and interest to a modern living room. If you are worried different pieces will look out of place, simply look for a few underlying elements that will make your room look versatile but still come together. For instance, focus on a similar color palette for your pieces that cross design styles.
2. Don’t mix patterns: Today, stripes and polka dots are no longer a no-no. How about florals and plaids. Chevrons and paisley? It’s okay to mix and match your favorite patterns, but there are a few tricks. First, consider sticking with similar hues to give your pieces a sense of belonging. Another trick is to choose patterned pieces in different scales, so the two pieces don’t compete for attention. With these guidelines in mind, go ahead and let your inner (design) rebel out. It’s time to experiment and see what works in your space!
3. Don’t mix metals: This is another rule that’s worth breaking. Today’s interiors can highlight silver and gold, as well as brass and bronze. However, you still don’t want to go overboard with these shiny surfaces. Stick with two or maybe three metals, so your space still looks cohesive. Also, be strategic about your pieces. For example, you may choose a single metal for all your fixtures and create a stunning focal point by choosing a light fixture in a different metallic shade. Finally, try breaking up your metals with some other media, such as a glass top table to help balance your look.
4. Match all your dining chairs: If you have a table that seats six, you need to have six matching chairs, right? Not so. Today’s diners are mixing things up around the dinner table, and we’re not just talking about bold menu choices. Add personality to your dining room by mixing and matching your seating. Try pairing four wooden side chairs with a set of upholstered host chairs on the ends of your table. You can alternatively add a bench to one side for versatile and space-saving benefits. When mixing and matching dining chairs, just make sure all of your seating is approximately the same height for practical purposes.
5. Never use bold colors in small spaces: The general thought behind this one is that light colors will make a small space feel open and larger, while dark or bold colors can have the opposite effect. However, it’s not always the case. In fact, painting a room a dark color can give the room a greater feeling of depth. To further the perception of distance, you should layer different textures and colors on top of your dark backdrop. Think rugs, furniture and décor, as well as trim and window treatments. The final effect can feel both spacious and sophisticated. Another bonus: you can try out bold colors and patterns in a smaller space with less commitment. It’s easier (and more cost effective) to make a change if you don’t love it.
6. Small spaces need small furniture: Scale is important, and you typically want to avoid overstuffed and extra-large pieces in small spaces. However, too many small pieces can make your space look cluttered. Instead, you want to choose furniture that will fit both your floor plan and your functionality requirements. Choose a sofa or sectional that’s long enough to seat your crew. However, you should consider the overall design as well as the length measurements. For instance, a low-back and tailored sofa can take up less visual space in your room. Pair it with glass top end tables and a glass top coffee table that also take up less visual space. Also focus on multi-functional furniture that can serve a couple of purposes in a single footprint. For a small or medium-sized bedroom, go ahead and place a queen or even a king bed, but choose a storage bed with ample drawers underneath and you may even be able to skip a dresser. Wondering about rug size? In many cases, a large rug can make your room seem more spacious. Just leave enough room for a bit of bare floor around the rug perimeter.
7. Avoid faux plants and flowers: Those without a green thumb can breathe a sigh of relief. There are many high-quality faux plants and stems that will brighten up your home and look natural, not tacky—no daily watering required. You can even mix faux and real plants on your porch or patio for a lush and full look with less maintenance.
8. Outdoor furniture is only for outdoors: Today’s quality patio furniture is blurring the line between indoor and outdoor designs. Outdoor deep seating, like sofas and chairs, are comfortable and durable, and they make outdoor living spaces feel more like their indoor counterparts. In fact, we’re seeing some cozy outdoor furniture make the permanent move to the living room or family room. A wicker chair with high-quality cushions or a cute and casual side table may be just the statement piece your (indoor) room’s been wanting.
9. Ceilings must be white: It’s easy to overlook the space over your room. However, it’s time to give the ceiling another look, and perhaps a fresh coat of paint. Statement ceilings are no longer a “no”, in fact, they are a scene-stealer! A colorful ceiling has the benefit of drawing the eye upward. It can work especially well to highlight vaulted ceilings.
10. Hang artwork at eye level: Yes, eye level is a good place to start. However, wall art may need to be elevated in rooms with tall ceilings in order to achieve a sense of balance in your room. The ideal position for your artwork will also depend on your furniture. A statement piece above your sofa may need to be raised above eye level, according to the sofa height. You may also start hanging pieces at eye level and work your way outward to achieve a customized gallery wall. Before breaking out the nails, it’s important to experiment. Get a partner to hold the artwork at different heights for you, or use painters tape to get an idea of the different effects different positions will bring to your home interiors.