5 Interior Design Rules I Actually Follow (And When I Break Them)
Hey hey, Roomies!
Let’s be honest — the world of interior design can feel like a minefield of “rules” that make you second-guess your every throw pillow. But guess what? Rules were made to be bent, flipped, or totally ignored. (I said what I said.)
Today I’m spilling the tea on the 5 design rules I actually follow, both in my own home and with clients — plus when it’s perfectly okay to break them like a true design rebel.
Ready to make your space look like you actually live there — in the best way? Let’s get into it.
Watch the full video here:
5 Interior Design Rules I Actually Follow (And When I Break Them)
1. Go Big or Go… Sad and Small
When it comes to furniture and rugs, size does matter.
I know, I know — smaller pieces seem safer, but that’s how you end up with a room that looks like dollhouse chic (and not in a good way).
Here’s the trick:
Choose rugs that actually go under your furniture — yes, even the couch legs. And don’t be afraid of big art or full-sized sofas. Large-scale items make your space feel intentional and grounded, not cluttered.
Design magic: Oversized elements = instant luxury vibes.
2. Layer That Color, Babe
Listen, a beige room can be calming — but if everything matches too perfectly, it’s giving hotel lobby. The key? Layered contrast.
Mix cool and warm tones, matte and glossy textures, light and dark hues. Let your eyes dance around the room. It makes the space feel curated — not like you panic-bought everything from the same showroom in one day.
And when I break it?
I go tone-on-tone in super chill zones like bedrooms or bathrooms for that zen feel. But otherwise, gimme all the moody, layered drama.
3. Define Your Zones Like a Design Queen
Open concept? We love her. But we also need boundaries.
Even in wide, airy layouts, creating distinct zones helps your space feel cozy and organized. Area rugs, pendant lights, even a subtle wallpaper moment can visually define each spot.
Example: Dining area? Rug + overhead lighting = instant zone. Living space? Couch + side table + plant = nailed it.
No walls? No problem. You’ve got style.
4. Bring Nature Inside
Mother Nature is the original interior designer. I said what I said.
Whether it’s wood, stone, leather, or woven textures, natural elements bring in the soul and warmth your space is craving. They ground modern designs, soften harsh lines, and give your room some much-needed earthy energy.
Pro tip: Mix materials! Walnut + boucle + marble = chef’s kiss.
And hey, even one live plant can bring a dead corner to life. #GreenGirlEra
5. Your Stuff Should Tell Your Story
This one’s close to my heart:
Your home should look like you live there — not like a magazine cover that’s afraid of fingerprints.
Hang the art your best friend made you.
Display that funky vase you found at a flea market in Paris.
Frame the polaroid of your dog in sunglasses.
Design should feel meaningful — and the pieces that hold memories are what make your space feel like home.
Mic drop.
BONUS RULE: Break the Rules (Stylishly)
Sometimes? The most beautiful spaces come from breaking every single rule. That oversized chandelier in a tiny bedroom? Obsessed. Pattern-on-pattern chaos that somehow works? Big YES.
Your gut knows what works. Let it lead.
Because at the end of the day, your home isn’t a Pinterest board — it’s your story, told through color, texture, light, and love.
Wanna see it all come to life?
Check out the full video here for a visual deep dive, design inspo, and some bonus sass:
Watch on YouTube
Final Thoughts
Design isn’t about following a bunch of rules from a book printed in 1996. It’s about knowing which rules help bring out your best space — and when to toss them out the window in favor of what feels right.
So trust your taste. Experiment.
Make your home a place that feels like you — not just looks good on the ’Gram. (Although, let’s be honest… we want that too)
Love these tips? Share this blog, pin it, and send it to your design BFF.
Let’s make every home feel like a vibe.
#HomeDesignTips #InteriorDesignRules #DesignWithHeart #LayeredLiving #OpenConceptGoals #NaturalVibesOnly #StorytellingSpaces #HomeThatFeelsLikeYou
