Design rules are put in place to help guide your eye and create beautiful, coherent, liveable spaces. Some are non-negotiable, like choosing a correctly-sized rug for a space or layering your lighting. Others are more subjective, offering a loose guide as you make creative choices. Some rigid rules end up feeling outdated, though, and they’re only “rules” because people follow them. We’re zeroing in on the latter and giving you full permission to break them all.
1. All Metals Must Match
B. Blanton Design
“We have a strong belief that blending styles, eras, finishes and levels of patina are what actually creates a timeless interior,” says designer Brittney Blanton. “Instead, stick to one finish in each color tone. For example, selecting matching brushed brass to pair with matching polished nickel, as opposed to mixing polished brass with brushed brass or chrome with polished nickel.”
“I am a huge fan of color drenching a small space in a deeper tone. It can make the space feel more expansive and has an intimate feel,” she explains. “Adding the color you like and layering with some contrasting light will totally change your space into a rich retreat.”
Just keep lighting in mind when going big with color, and balance the bold with neutral accents so it doesn’t feel overwhelming.
3. Every Cooktop Needs a Wall and Hood
Reza Loft Photograph / KADI Design
“While I do love this look, there are other options to consider that might be a better solution for your kitchen,” she says. “If you have a small space and an adjoining dining area, remove the wall and create a kitchen peninsula. This single change can make a small kitchen appear much larger.”
For ventilation, do a little research to make sure you have the right product. For example, a downdraft ventilation option—like a retractable vent that pops up from the countertop—removes the need for an overhead hood.
4. Stick to Three Colors Max
Photo by Paul Esch-Laurent on Unsplash
“Instead of sticking by a strict rule of only using three colors, look for variations in color within the items in a room and how they relate to the larger space as a whole,” she advises. “Not all colors should be bold, and not all colors should be muted. Playing with the depth of color adds another element and allows the color scheme to read as cohesive.”
5. Wood Tones Should Match
Reza Loft Photograph
“Using the exact same wood and color throughout can sometimes feel flat and one-dimensional, but mixing them adds soul,” she says. “Start by considering one dominant wood for the larger architectural elements, such as cabinets, doors, flooring and millwork. Then introduce a different wood species or finish color through furniture, accessories and accent pieces.”
She recommends picking pieces that all work well together so there’s a throughline, but that you don’t need to stick to the same theme from room to room.
“Everyone has their own design style; you must really tap into yours and make intentional decisions when it comes to designing and decorating your space,” she says. “Sometimes it’s safer to express more personality in smaller decor items that you can interchange as your style changes.”
7. Windows Dictate the Kitchen Layout
KADI Design
“Don’t let the existing window configuration limit the possibilities for your layout,” Doherty says. “For example, we’re seeing a lot of people place open shelves in front of their kitchen windows or even extend the countertops across them.” Another idea: extending the countertop in front of a floor-to-ceiling window, which creates significantly more countertop space, seating and storage.
Related: 8 Bathroom Trends Designers Say Are Outdated in 2026
Hence then, the article about 7 outdated design rules interior experts say you should break was published today ( ) and is available on Parade ( Saudi Arabia ) The editorial team at PressBee has edited and verified it, and it may have been modified, fully republished, or quoted. You can read and follow the updates of this news or article from its original source.
Read More Details
Finally We wish PressBee provided you with enough information of ( 7 Outdated Design Rules Interior Experts Say You Should Break )
Also on site :