7 Rules of Interior Design

You finally found the perfect home and now what? Whether you are moving into your first house or just relocating, decorating is always a daunting task. Figuring out what works for a space is a challenge that even seasoned homeowners struggle with, but the trick is to follow these guidelines to cultivate a cohesive design.

1. Live With It: With all the excitement of moving into a new house, its easy to rush into purchases so the space is ready now but taking your time and seeing how the rooms flow ensures that you won’t have any buyers remorse or end up having to change things a year down the road.
2. Find A Focal Point: When you are ready to jump into design, start with a focal point. Sometimes rooms have natural places where your eye is drawn when you walk into the room like fireplaces or large windows. If not consider painting a wall, hanging a piece of artwork, or using a large piece of furniture to center your room. Design is much easier when has a central element to radiate around.
3. Symmetry Not Matching: There is a balance to be found between symmetry and asymmetry. Spaces feel alive when there is unity but not replication. Objects should work together to compliment each other, but if they are all the same they will lack character and personality. You can create symmetry by putting two identical side tables on both sides of the couch, but asymmetry is often more lively and engaging. Putting two objects that are different but have similar visual weight like mismatched tables and lamps on the sides of the couch cultivates a sense of movement.
4. The Rule of Odd Numbers (The Rule of Three’s): Basically, objects arranged or grouped in odd numbers are more appealing, memorable, and visually effective. Too much symmetry makes a room feel cold and stale. Generally, three works the best because if keeps a space from feeling chaotic. Sticking with three colors, three textures, or three main pieces of furniture creates groups that have balance without being boring. Just don’t walk around putting everything in groups of three’s; symmetry isn’t bad but some rules are made to be broken! 
5. Consider Negative Space: Sometimes, less is more. In design, negative space is the area not taken up by any object. It’s tempting to fill up every white space on a wall, but avoid clutter and purposely leave some negative space to highlight decorated areas and make your home look professional. Leaving walls blank around the fireplace brings attention to the structural features and the focal points that make your home unique. 
6. Contrast: Providing contrast is key to a dynamic space. This can be done with color like a black chair in a white room, but another great way to create contrast is with shape. Adding curves, like a round coffee table or side table, is a great way to compliment the hard edges typically found in furniture.

A well designed home is all about creating patterns of repetition (generally in odd numbers) and contrast to create visual interest. Establish continuity by picking up the same accent color in pillows, lamps, and art throughout the room; establish contrast by throwing in something unexpected like a curved ottoman, bold color, or even something modern in a traditional space. It’s all about finding balance, and sometimes even ignoring the rules.