20 Unwritten Rules About Interior Design

Interior design is not just about decorating a space; it’s about creating an environment that enhances functionality, comfort, and aesthetics. While there are plenty of formal guidelines for designing spaces, unwritten rules often guide the creative process and make a space feel truly cohesive. Here are 20 unwritten rules about interior design that every designer, whether professional or DIY enthusiast, should keep in mind:

1. Function Before Form
   Before choosing colors or furniture, always think about the function of the space. Design should support the activities that will happen in the room. For example, a living room should promote relaxation and conversation, while a home office should foster productivity.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Space
   Leave room for movement. Too much furniture or too many decorations can make a room feel cramped and uncomfortable. Negative space, or empty space, is just as important as the filled space.
3. Use the 60-30-10 Rule
   This color rule helps achieve a balanced look in a room. 60% of the room should be your dominant color, 30% your secondary color, and 10% an accent color. This approach creates harmony and a visually pleasing environment.
4. Consider the Scale and Proportion
   Furniture should fit the scale of the room. Oversized furniture in a small room can feel overwhelming, while small furniture in a large room can feel lost. Consider proportions carefully to create a balanced look.
5. Layer Lighting
   Effective lighting is key to setting the mood in a room. Incorporate a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting. Overhead lighting is great for general illumination, while task lighting (like reading lamps) and accent lighting (like table lamps) add depth.
6. Keep It Personal
   Interior design should reflect the personality of the people living in the space. Don’t be afraid to mix personal items or pieces that reflect your style. Art, photographs, and sentimental objects add uniqueness and warmth to a home.
7. Don’t Match Everything
   Matching everything in a room can make it feel flat and boring. Instead, aim for coordination. Combining complementary patterns, colors, and textures creates visual interest and a more dynamic space.
8. Anchor Furniture with Rugs
   A rug is a great way to anchor a seating area and define the space. It creates a sense of structure, especially in open-plan layouts, and can tie together different elements in a room.
9. Don’t Ignore Traffic Flow
   Consider how people will move through a space. Ensure there’s enough room for walking paths and that furniture isn’t blocking doorways or creating obstacles. Smooth flow is key to comfort and accessibility.
10. Stick to a Consistent Theme
    Even if you love eclectic designs, it’s important to have some underlying consistency. Whether it’s a specific color palette, a material, or a style, having a theme ties a room together and avoids chaos.
11. Mix Old and New
    Combine vintage pieces with modern design elements. The contrast between old and new can create a more interesting and layered look. Antique furniture can add character to contemporary spaces and vice versa.
12. Choose Quality Over Quantity
    In interior design, less is often more. Focus on fewer, high-quality pieces rather than overcrowding a room with cheap or unnecessary items. Quality furniture and accessories last longer and often enhance the overall aesthetic.
13. Balance Symmetry and Asymmetry
    While symmetry can create harmony, too much symmetry can feel rigid. Incorporating asymmetrical design elements—like uneven art arrangements or mismatched furniture—adds intrigue and keeps things visually exciting.
14. Embrace Natural Light
    Natural light can make a room feel more inviting and spacious. Don’t block windows with heavy curtains or furniture. Instead, opt for light, breathable fabrics for curtains, or keep windows uncovered to let in as much natural light as possible.
15. Keep Your Walls Neutral
    While bold wall colors can make a statement, neutral tones tend to create a timeless backdrop. Neutral walls allow for flexibility with decor and furnishings, making it easier to change the look of a room over time.
16. Avoid Clutter
    Clutter not only affects the visual appeal of a room but also impacts its functionality. Use clever storage solutions to keep everyday items out of sight, and periodically assess your space to remove things you no longer need.
17. Create Focal Points
    Every room should have a focal point that draws attention. This could be a fireplace, a piece of artwork, or a statement piece of furniture. It gives the space direction and creates a sense of balance.
18. Mix Textures
    Mixing textures like wood, metal, fabric, and leather adds depth and interest to a room. A blend of textures makes the space feel more inviting and complex, while also offering comfort and warmth.
19. Don’t Neglect the Ceiling
    The ceiling is often an overlooked aspect of interior design. Whether it’s painted a different color, covered with textured wallpaper, or adorned with a statement light fixture, the ceiling can elevate the look of a room.
20. Edit Ruthlessly
    Sometimes, less is more. When designing a room, take a step back and evaluate what’s necessary. If something doesn’t contribute to the space’s function or aesthetic, consider removing it to keep the room feeling open and uncluttered.

Interior design is an art form that requires balance, creativity, and a strong understanding of how to enhance both functionality and beauty in a space. By following these unwritten rules, you can create spaces that are not only visually appealing but also practical and comfortable for everyday living.