Understand Your Space

Before you begin decorating, it’s crucial to evaluate the space you have available. Measure your rooms to determine their dimensions and consider the natural light and flow of the area. This foundational understanding will guide your decisions on furniture size, layout, and decorative elements.

Choose a Color Palette

Colors set the mood of a space. Selecting a cohesive color palette will unify your decorations. It’s advisable to pick three to five colors that complement each other, including a dominant color, a secondary color, and a few accent shades. Use this palette consistently across walls, furniture, and accessories to create a harmonious environment.

Balance and Proportion

Achieving a visually pleasing space involves ensuring balance and proportion. Distribute weight evenly by alternating larger and smaller furniture pieces, which can help avoid a chaotic appearance. Consider the scale of each item in relation to the room size and other furnishings, creating a well-rounded and inviting atmosphere.

By adhering to these fundamental rules of decorating, you can transform any space into a reflection of your style while maintaining a sense of cohesion and comfort. Remember, the goal is to create an environment that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, so take your time and enjoy the process of designing your perfect space.

When it comes to decorating, certain guidelines can help create a balanced, stylish, and cohesive space. Here are some key rules of decorating that can elevate your interior design:

1. Plan Your Space

Start with a Layout: Consider the flow and functionality of the room. Measure the space and plan where the major furniture pieces will go.
Create a Focal Point: Decide what you want to be the main attraction in the room, such as a fireplace, artwork, or a large window. Arrange the furniture around this focal point.

2. Follow the 60-30-10 Rule for Color

60% Dominant Color: This is the primary color used in the room, such as the walls or large furniture pieces.
30% Secondary Color: This should complement the dominant color, appearing in elements like upholstery, curtains, or smaller furniture.
10% Accent Color: Use this for accessories and decor items like pillows, artwork, or vases for a pop of interest.

3. Use the Rule of Thirds

Divide the Room into Three Sections: Visually divide the room vertically and arrange furniture and decor in three different sections for balance.
Apply the Rule to Artwork Placement: Hang artwork at eye level, about 57–60 inches from the floor to the center of the piece. When hanging multiple pieces, arrange them in groups of odd numbers for a more organic look.

4. Mix Textures

Combine Different Materials: Use a variety of fabrics, metals, woods, and finishes to add depth and interest. For example, pair a soft velvet sofa with a wooden coffee table and a metal floor lamp.
Layer Textures for Coziness: Add textured rugs, throws, and cushions to make the space feel more inviting.

5. Incorporate Patterns

Mix Patterns Thoughtfully: Pair large patterns with small patterns and keep the color scheme consistent to avoid a busy look.
Stick to Three Patterns or Less: Too many patterns can overwhelm the space. Choose two to three patterns that complement each other.

6. Balance Scale and Proportion

Use Furniture of Appropriate Size: Make sure the furniture fits the scale of the room. Larger pieces should be balanced with smaller pieces to avoid crowding or empty spaces.
Keep Accessories in Scale: Avoid using tiny decor items in large rooms or large decor in small spaces. Aim for a mix that complements the space.

7. Follow the Lighting Layering Rule

Layer Three Types of Lighting: Use ambient lighting (overall light), task lighting (reading lights, desk lamps), and accent lighting (spotlights, decorative lamps) for a well-lit room.
Use Dimmer Switches: These allow for adjustable lighting to create different moods.

8. Stick to a Budget

Set a Budget Early On: Determine how much you can spend on furniture, decor, and renovations.
Prioritize Key Pieces: Invest in foundational items like a good sofa or bed, then accessorize with budget-friendly decor.

9. Apply the Odd Number Rule

Decorate in Odd Numbers: Arrangements of 3, 5, or 7 items look more natural and visually appealing than even-numbered groupings.
Vary Heights and Shapes: Use objects of different sizes and shapes in groupings to add interest.

10. Don’t Forget About Functionality

Prioritize Use and Comfort: Make sure the space is practical for your lifestyle. Comfortable seating, appropriate storage, and easy-to-clean materials are essential.
Incorporate Multi-Functional Furniture: In small spaces, use pieces that can serve multiple purposes, such as a sofa bed or a storage ottoman.

11. Edit Your Space

Less is More: Avoid overcrowding the space with too much furniture or decor. Allow the room to breathe.
Declutter Regularly: Keep surfaces free from unnecessary items. A tidy space looks more polished.

12. Include Personal Touches

Display Meaningful Items: Personal mementos, family photos, or travel souvenirs can add warmth and character to your space.
Mix Old and New: Combine vintage or inherited pieces with new items for a curated, layered look.

13. Choose Quality Over Quantity

Invest in Key Pieces: It’s better to have fewer, high-quality items than to fill the room with lower-quality decor.
Avoid Trends for Large Purchases: Stick to classic, timeless designs for furniture and opt for trendy items in smaller accessories.

14. Use Rugs to Define Areas

Size Matters: Choose a rug that is large enough to fit under all the main furniture pieces in the seating area or covers the area where your feet will land when getting out of bed.
Layer Rugs: In larger rooms, you can layer smaller rugs over a larger one to add texture and interest.

15. Consider Ceiling and Wall Heights

Use Vertical Space: Take advantage of tall ceilings with high curtains, tall bookshelves, or large artwork.
Hang Curtains Higher: Install curtains close to the ceiling to create the illusion of height.

16. Stick to a Consistent Style

Choose a Theme or Style: Whether it’s modern, traditional, bohemian, or eclectic, sticking to a style helps to create a cohesive look.
Limit Colors to a Palette: Choose a color palette and stay within it to ensure the room feels unified.

17. Pay Attention to Flooring

Coordinate with the Room’s Color Scheme: Flooring should complement the overall decor. If changing the flooring is not an option, use rugs to add color or pattern.
Use Area Rugs to Anchor the Space: In open-plan areas, rugs can help define different sections, like living and dining areas.

18. Incorporate Natural Elements

Add Plants or Flowers: Bringing nature indoors adds life to a space and improves air quality.
Use Natural Materials: Wood, stone, or natural fibers can add warmth and texture.

19. Symmetry vs. Asymmetry

Use Symmetry for Formal Settings: Symmetrical arrangements create a classic, formal look.
Opt for Asymmetry for a More Relaxed Feel: Asymmetrical arrangements can give a space a more casual, modern vibe.

20. Don’t Overlook the Details

Use Decorative Hardware: Swap out standard cabinet knobs, handles, or light switch plates for more stylish options.
Add Trim or Moldings: Wall trims, baseboards, or ceiling moldings can elevate the room’s look.

By following these decorating rules, you can create a balanced, aesthetically pleasing, and functional space that feels cohesive and comfortable.