Welcome back, friends! If you’re looking to transform your living space into something that looks like it came straight out of a design magazine, you’re in the right place. Today, I’ll be sharing some essential interior design rules you should never break, offering you practical tips on everything from furniture measurements to perfect placement. Following these guidelines will help you create a space that’s balanced, stylish, and perfectly put together. Let’s dive in!
1. Get Your Coffee Table Size Right
The coffee table is a key centerpiece in your living room, and its size can make or break the room’s design. The height of your coffee table should ideally match the height of the seat cushion on your sofa. This creates a balanced and cohesive look. For length, aim for a coffee table that’s about ⅔ the size of your sofa. If your coffee table feels too small for your space, you can try using two of the same style side-by-side to create a longer effect. For round coffee tables, consider adding round end tables around it for a layered, more expansive look.
2. Accent Color Variations Are Key
When decorating with accent colors, don’t limit yourself to a single shade. A monochromatic color scheme can feel too flat, so be sure to incorporate varying tones of your accent color. Mix deeper hues with lighter shades to add depth and complexity to your space. This principle can be applied across paint colors, textiles, rugs, pillows, and even furniture. Adding these variations will help your space feel more sophisticated and multidimensional.
3. Hang Wall Art at the Right Height
One of the most common design mistakes is hanging art too high or too low. To get it right, ensure the center of your artwork is about 57 to 60 inches from the floor. This height aligns with the average human eye level, making your art feel integrated into the space, not isolated. If you’re working with multiple pieces, make sure the central point of your grouping is within this height range, and arrange your art symmetrically around that.
4. Contrast Between Walls and Trim
Your walls and trim should always have some form of contrast. Whether it’s the color or the sheen, having a stark difference between these elements adds polish and highlights architectural details. If you prefer a more monochromatic look, ensure your trim is at least a glossier finish than the walls—such as semi-gloss for trim and eggshell for the walls. Alternatively, you can opt for a contrasting color, such as white trim on darker walls, to create a striking effect. This contrast enhances the details and adds richness to your home.
5. Perfect Your Curtain Placement
Curtains can significantly impact the perception of your room’s size. To make your space appear larger, hang the curtain rod at least 4 to 6 inches above the window frame, or even closer to the ceiling if possible. This simple adjustment will draw the eye upward, giving the room a more expansive feel. Longer curtains that reach the floor add a more elegant and finished look.
6. End Tables and Nightstands: Size Matters
End tables should align with your sofa’s armrest height, generally about 1 to 2 inches lower than the armrest. This ensures easy access and a comfortable, proportional look. For nightstands, the top should be aligned with the top of your mattress to avoid awkward proportions. Additionally, make sure your nightstands are wide enough to fill the space around your bed. For a double bed, look for nightstands that are between 17 and 20 inches wide, for a queen bed, between 21 and 30 inches, and for a king bed, go for 31 inches or more.
7. Rug Size is Crucial
Rugs anchor your space, so it’s important to choose the right size. A rug that’s too small can make a room feel disjointed. Aim for a rug that extends at least 12 to 18 inches beyond the sides of your bed. For double beds, a 6×9 rug works well, while for queen beds, opt for an 8×10, and for king beds, go with a 9×12 or 10×14 rug. If your current rug feels too small, you can layer a larger rug underneath for added texture and style.
8. Layer Your Lighting for the Right Ambiance
Lighting is essential for creating a welcoming, balanced environment. To achieve a designer-quality look, incorporate at least three types of lighting: ambient (general overhead light), accent (lamps or sconces for mood), and task lighting (focused lights for specific functions). Each layer helps create a dynamic and functional atmosphere. Adding lamps, sconces, or even under-cabinet lighting will soften the space, while task lighting ensures areas like desks or reading corners are well-lit.