Interior Design Rules You Should Never Break

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Want to decorate your home like a pro? Follow these interior design rules to create a beautiful and balanced space. These tips cover everything from coffee tables to wall art, paint, curtains, and bedroom decor. Learn how to avoid common mistakes and create a home that looks great.

Coffee Table Size

The size of your coffee table is very important. A coffee table that is too high, too low, too big, or too small can ruin your room’s design. The height of your coffee table should match the height of your sofa’s seat cushions.

The length of your coffee table should be about 3/5 the size of your sofa. This makes sure it fits well in front of the sofa.

If your coffee table is too small, you can:

• Use two of the same coffee table side by side.
• Add small, round end tables to make it look bigger.

When buying a coffee table, remember to think about both height and length to find the right fit for your space.

Accent Colors

When using an accent color, use more than one shade of that color. Do not use just one shade of the same color everywhere. This can make your home look boring.

Add different shades of the same color to make your home look more interesting. Use deeper and lighter tones to create a more complex and stylish look. You can do this with:

• Paint
• Tile
• Pillows
• Curtains
• Rugs
• Furniture

Adding different shades will add depth and detail to your home.

Wall Art Height

Hang your wall art at the correct height. If you hang it too high, it will look separate from the rest of the room. If you hang it too low, it will also look wrong.

Hang your wall art so the middle of the piece is 57 to 60 inches from the floor. This is at eye level and looks comfortable and balanced with your furniture.

When hanging multiple pieces, make sure the middle of the group is at this height. Then, arrange the other pieces around it.

Paint Contrast

Always have some contrast between your walls and your trim. Trim includes baseboards, doors, and window trim. This contrast can be in color or paint finish.

If you want your trim to be the same color as your walls, use a glossier finish on the trim. For example, if your walls are eggshell, use semi-gloss or high-gloss on the trim. This makes the trim stand out and is easier to clean.

You can also use a different color for the trim. Often, people use a bright white for trim. You can also do the opposite and use darker trim with lighter walls.

Never paint your walls and trim the same color and finish. This will look flat and boring.

Curtain Rod Height

Curtains soften a room and make it feel warm and cozy. To make your home look as big and grand as possible, hang your curtain rod at the right height.

Hang your curtain rod at least 4 to 6 inches above the window frame. Do not line up the rod with the frame. This will make your window and room look smaller.

If you can, hang the curtain rod closer to the ceiling. This will make your windows look taller and your room feel bigger.

End Tables and Nightstands

End tables and nightstands should work well with your other furniture.

End tables in your living room should be 1 to 2 inches lower than the armrests of your sofa and chairs. If the end table is too low or too high, it will look and feel wrong.

Nightstands in your bedroom should be the same height as the top of your mattress. If they are lower or higher, they will look out of place.

The width of your nightstand is also important:

• Double bed: 17 to 20 inches wide
• Queen bed: 21 to 30 inches wide
• King bed: 31 inches or wider

Using the right size nightstand will balance your bedroom design.

Bedroom Rug Size

A good rug can tie your bedroom together. Make sure you choose the right rug size. The rug should extend at least 12 to 18 inches beyond the sides and foot of your bed.

Here are some rug size guidelines:

• Double bed: 6×9 rug or larger
• Queen bed: 8×10 rug or larger
• King bed: 9×12 or 10×14 rug

If your rug is too small, you can layer a larger rug underneath it. Use a natural fiber rug like jute to add contrast and expand the look of your existing rug.

Lighting

Add multiple light sources to create a stylish look. Use ambient lighting from ceiling lights, accent lighting from lamps and sconces, and task lighting for specific activities.

• Ambient lighting: General, overhead lighting.
• Accent lighting: Softens the room, creates a cozy feel. Think table lamps and wall sconces.
• Task lighting: Focused light for reading, working, or other tasks.

Using all three types of lighting will create a complete and functional lighting design.

Create Your Dream Home Today

Follow these interior design rules to create a beautiful and balanced home. From choosing the right coffee table size to hanging curtains at the perfect height, these tips will help you avoid common mistakes and create a space you’ll love.

Ready to start decorating? Use these tips as your interior design cheat sheet. Happy decorating!

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