Are you looking to give your home a makeover? Whether you’re designing a room from scratch or just refreshing a space, there are several key principles interior designers rely on to create harmonious, functional rooms. These decorating rules help you make decisions that will turn your home into a beautiful and comfortable space. Here are five essential rules that will guide you in your decorating journey.

1. The Rule of Three

The rule of three is a fundamental design principle that can be applied in almost every area of your home. This rule is often used in arranging objects, where grouping things in threes creates a balanced and pleasing effect. Whether it’s a vignette on your coffee table or a collection of decor items on a shelf, odd numbers work better than even ones. While three is the most common number, you can experiment with five, seven, or nine items, depending on your space. Try arranging objects in groups of three to see how it transforms the look of the room.

2. Build a Strong Foundation

Space planning is a critical step when it comes to designing any room. It may not sound glamorous, but it’s vital for creating a functional and balanced space. Carefully consider how your furniture is arranged, making sure there’s enough space for movement and that traffic flow isn’t blocked. For example, while you may dream of having two sofas facing each other, it might not be the best choice if it disrupts the natural flow of the room. If you’re unsure of how to organize your furniture, there are several methods to help you plan: you can measure the space and draw it out on paper, use painter’s tape on the floor, or try out free online space planning software.

3. Identify the Focal Point

Before diving into decorating, it’s essential to identify the focal point of the room. A focal point can be anything from a fireplace to a piece of artwork or even a large window. Once you’ve pinpointed the main feature, arrange the furniture and accessories around it to emphasize its presence. Keep in mind that some rooms may have multiple focal points, which can be a challenge to balance. However, with thoughtful placement and careful design, you can create a cohesive look that highlights all of the room’s best features.

4. Choose Fabrics and Rugs First

When designing a room, it’s often a good idea to choose your fabrics and rugs before deciding on paint colors. The reason for this is simple: it’s much easier to match paint colors to fabrics than the other way around. Paint colors can vary significantly depending on lighting, so choosing fabrics and rugs first ensures that your room will have a cohesive, coordinated look. Whether you’re working with neutral tones or bold patterns, selecting the right fabrics and rugs can set the tone for the rest of your design.

5. Don’t Feel the Need to Fill Every Empty Space

One common mistake in decorating is the urge to fill every empty spot in a room. Sometimes, less is more. Whether you prefer a minimalist or a more styled approach, remember that you don’t have to fill every corner with furniture or decor. Empty spaces can help create balance and prevent the room from feeling cluttered. If you’re tempted to add more pieces, try editing your selections and removing one item to achieve a more balanced, visually appealing result.

Bonus Rule: It’s Your Home, So Break the Rules

While the rules above are tried and tested, the ultimate decorating rule is that there are no hard-and-fast rules. If a rule doesn’t work for your space or your personal style, feel free to break it. Ultimately, the design should reflect your tastes and needs. While it’s helpful to follow time-tested principles, don’t be afraid to trust your instincts and make your space uniquely yours.