Rules have an air of finality about them, which makes their presence in interior design rare. Every designer will have different tastes and every homeowner may have different preferences. However, despite this, interior designers shared with Realtor.com several "mandates" every design should follow. The list includes layering lighting and decorating in odd numbers. Here are highlights from Realtor.com's list. Do you agree that these should always be followed in home renovations?
Layer Your Lighting
Unless you're going for the feel and comfort of an interrogation room, make sure you've distributed light equally around your room. Never rely on a single source—especially if it's overhead lighting.
Keep Your Base Neutral
Put away the paintbrushes dripping with statement colors. It might sound boring, but plenty of designers agree—painting with neutrals is a smart way to ensure space ages nicely.
Avoid Matching Furniture
Furnishing a room is not a vacation package, so take a pass on the all-included furniture bundles. One designer recommends an 8-/20 formula, in which the majority of furniture is the same style and the remainder represents a different era or design trend.
Pile on Different Textures
Everything that sparkles is not going to make for a well-designed room. You've got to mix things up.
"Every room should have five textures: shiny, matte, smooth, flat, rough," said Los Angeles interior designer Baiyina Hughley.
Decorate in Odd Numbers
The "Rule of Three" is sacred in the design field. Following this rule can mean the difference between a polished space and one with a ho-hum, amateur vibe.
