THREE DESIGN RULES YOU SHOULD NEVER BREAK

There are many interior design rules of thumb, but today I want to talk about three rules you should never break if you want your designs to look spectacular!

Please note: There are always exceptions to rules, but generally speaking, these three rules are going to lead you in the right direction the vast majority of the time.

1. Avoid awkward curtain lengths

This is a big one and can feel like nails on a chalkboard if done incorrectly. Drapes can transform a room from bland to beautiful, but hanging them correctly is crucial to achieving that polished look. As a professional interior designer, I've seen the difference that well-hung drapes can make.

So start by measuring the height from the floor to where you want the top of the drapes to be. For a dramatic, floor-to-ceiling look, mount the rod close to the ceiling, around 4-6 inches above the window frame. Measure the width of the window and add 4-8 inches on either side. This allows the drapes to cover the window completely and create an illusion of larger windows. For a fuller look, the combined width of your drapes should be 2-2.5 times the width of the window.

A great rule of thumb is that the drapes should just graze the floor. Of course, puddling drapes are an option as well, but for the majority of spaces, having your drapes just graze the floor is the best look for any space! It’s classic and tailored looking, and not to mention, it’s easier to vacuum or mop when your drapes aren’t puddled.

Drapes that are too short remind me of high water pants- it just isn’t quite right. It also shrinks the space! So consider hanging your drapes high on the wall closer to the ceiling, and selecting the correct length.

2. Choose a properly sized rug

This one can be tough for a lot of people. Choosing a properly sized rug can dramatically transform a room, making it look cohesive and well-designed. The first step is to determine the function and layout of the space.

For living rooms, a common rule is to select a rug large enough so that at least the front legs of all furniture pieces sit on it. This creates a unified area and ensures that the rug anchors the seating arrangement.

In dining rooms, the rug should be large enough to accommodate the table and chairs, even when the chairs are pulled out. A good rule of thumb is to add at least 24 inches to each side of the table dimensions.

For bedrooms, a rug should extend at least 18-24 inches beyond the bed’s sides and end, providing a soft landing for your feet.

When choosing a rug, consider the room's dimensions and the furniture layout. Measure your space carefully and take into account any architectural elements like doorways and vents that could affect rug placement. The rug should be proportional to the room size; too small a rug can make the space feel disjointed, while an overly large rug can overwhelm the room.

If you have a rug that you realize is too small for the space, consider layering rugs. You could purchase a larger jute or natural fiber rug and place it under your existing rug. This is a wonderful way to add dimension and texture to your space.

3. Hang art at eye level

This rule has exceptions as well, but you will almost always be safe hanging art at eye level. This helps balance the room. The center of the piece should be at eye level, generally about 57-60 inches from the floor. This rule ensures that the art is comfortably viewable and aesthetically pleasing.

If you’re hanging art above furniture, such as a sofa or console table, the bottom of the frame should be 6-8 inches above the furniture to create a cohesive look. Art that is too high feels aimless, art that is too low shrinks the height of the room. So to avoid those results, hang art at eye level. 

These rules are great ways to steer around design faux pas and have your designs looking fabulous. By following these three unbreakable design rules, you’ll create spaces that are not only beautiful but also functional and inviting.

These principles are the foundation of good design and will ensure your spaces always feel cohesive and thoughtfully curated. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a passionate DIY enthusiast, adhering to these guidelines will elevate your interior design game.  But remember, at the end of the day, you should trust your gut- especially if it’s in your own home.

If you’re interested in becoming an interior designer, be sure to check out the rest of my website! Let’s turn your passion for interior design into a thriving career and make every room a masterpiece!

Thanks for reading!