Design Rules

10 Interior Design Rules You Should Never Break

Whether you’re starting from scratch or tweaking an existing space, the right design rules can make your home feel welcoming and timeless.

In this post, I’m sharing 10 pro interior design rules that will help you create a space that looks and feels like it was made just for you.

1. Define How You Want to Feel in the Space

Every great design starts with a purpose. Ask yourself: How do I want to feel in this room? Should it be calm and cozy, creative and social, or nurturing and restful? The feeling you want to create in a space is your north star, guiding your decisions and making your goals clear.

Once you’ve defined the mood, consider how the room will be used. Is it a personal space to unwind, a social hub for family and friends, or a dedicated workspace? Designing with both purpose and emotion in mind ensures your space will not only look good but feel good and work for your lifestyle.

2. Create Cadence and Layer Colors

Creating rhythm in your home is key to a cohesive look. This is why rooms in magazines often feel so harmonious—they have a rhythm that ties them together. Start by repeating key colors and materials throughout your rooms. For example, if you have brass finishes in one room, carry that tone into another space through hardware or decor. Layering colors also adds depth—think of it like creating a painting where each layer adds richness.

By repeating colors and layering tones, your home will feel unified and sophisticated. For example, I’ve used the same deep charcoal color on my mudroom paneling, kitchen windows, and stair rails, creating a cohesive flow throughout my space.

3. Establish a Focal Point

Every room needs a focal point—a feature that draws the eye and anchors the design. This could be a striking piece of art, a dramatic light fixture, or even a view to the outside.

Once you’ve chosen your focal point, arrange your furniture to highlight it, and pull colors and textures from it to guide the rest of your design. A strong focal point ensures that your room feels balanced and personal.

4. Stick to Time-Tested Furniture Proportions

Furniture that’s too big or too small can throw off the entire look of a room. Stick to time-tested proportions for a polished feel. For example, a coffee table should be 16-18 inches high, and its length should be about two-thirds the length of your sofa. Side tables should be 24-26 inches tall, and dining tables should be 30 inches high with at least 36 inches of clearance around them.

These proportions ensure that your furniture fits seamlessly into your space and functions beautifully for your needs.

5. Pay Attention to Sight Lines

Sight lines are the secret to a well-designed home. Think about what you see as you move through your space. Create visual moments with thoughtfully styled vignettes, like a layered console table or a bookshelf, and highlight architectural features like arches or windows.

Play with contrast, repetition, and surprise to keep things interesting and dynamic. Sight lines add a layer of mystery and discovery, making your home feel inviting and full of personality.

6. Hang Art and Mirrors at the Right Height

Properly hung art and mirrors are the finishing touches that elevate a room. The general rule is to center artwork at eye level, about 57-60 inches from the floor. Over furniture, leave 6-9 inches between the top of the furniture and the bottom of the frame. For a gallery wall, the center should also be around eye level.

If you’re feeling more creative, don’t be afraid to break the rules! Sometimes, hanging art off-center or using unconventional placements can add a fun, artistic touch.

7. Layer Lighting

Lighting sets the mood of a room and should be layered to create depth and flexibility. Combine three types of lighting: ambient (general light), task (focused light for activities), and accent (highlighting art or features).

Dimmers are a great way to adjust the atmosphere of a room and ensure you have the right lighting for every occasion. Layering lighting adds dimension and creates a warm, inviting ambiance in your home.

8. Scale Rugs Appropriately

A well-scaled rug grounds a room and ties everything together. For a living room or family room, choose a rug large enough to fit under all the furniture or at least the front legs of sofas and chairs. In the dining room, the rug should be large enough to accommodate chairs when pulled out. In the bedroom, go for a rug that’s at least 9×12 for a queen-sized bed.

If your rug isn’t large enough for the space, don’t be afraid to layer it on top of a natural fiber rug for a cohesive, proportional look.

9. Scale Your Window Treatments

Window treatments add softness and elegance to a room. Full-length drapery is ideal for spaces like the living room, dining room, or bedrooms. Hang the rod 6-12 inches above the window casing to give the room more height, and extend the rod 12-18 inches beyond the window trim to make the window appear larger.

For kitchens and bathrooms, opt for Roman shades or café curtains. These provide privacy and light control while adding a stylish touch to your space.

10. Make It Personal

Finally, the most important design rule: make it personal. Include pieces that tell your story—whether it’s an heirloom, a souvenir from your travels, or art that resonates with you. These personal touches give your home soul and warmth, making it feel truly yours.

My favorite pieces in my home are the vintage treasures I’ve collected over the years. They add so much character and personality to our spaces. If you love incorporating unique pieces into your home, be sure to check out my video on styling vintage and antique treasures!

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By following these 10 pro interior design rules, you’ll create a space that’s not only beautiful but also functional and reflective of your unique style. Whether you’re designing from scratch or making a few updates, these principles will help you craft a home you love.