6 Outdated Interior Design Rules Worth Breaking Right Now

Throughout my life, I have pretty much been known to follow the rules. Sure, I've gone a few miles over the speed limit (don't come for me) and jaywalked a time or two (I lived in Chicago for eight years), but for the most part, I'm a pretty straight arrow. However, it is my firm belief that when it comes to the "rules" of interior design most of them are meant to be broken.

Don't get me wrong I agree with things like using multiple forms of lighting to brighten a space and utilizing a mirror to make a room appear bigger, but aside from that, I like to make my own rules. Follow along for the six outdated interior design rules I think are meant to be broken.

1. Always Hang Your Curtains High

For years interior designers have sworn by the rule " hang your curtains high and wide ." While this is a sure-fire way to make a small room appear bigger, it isn't a one-size-fits-all rule. In fact, for shower curtains in particular, hanging your rod to the ceiling can actually keep necessary steam from escaping causing mold and other issues.

2. Don’t Use Bold Patterns in Small Rooms

Interior designers agree — a bold pattern in a small room can make a tiny room feel even smaller. We say, so what! If you have a vision that includes wallpaper in your small bathroom , go forth and prosper.

3. Never Mix Hardware

While not every designer claims this, most will say it's best not to mix hardware. However, if done right, mixing gold with sterling silver or black with brushed nickel can actually add dimension and visual interest.

4. Don't Paint a Tiny Room Dark

Much like the bold pattern rule, most people will tell you to never paint a small room a dark color. They claim it can enclose a space and absorb any light that might enter it. However, dark colors are also key to crafting a moody vibe . So, if that's the look you're going for, by all means.

5. Avoid Mixing and Matching

Plenty of people think that if you mix and match things that have traditionally been identical, it will look chaotic. However, there are ways to create cohesion without keeping everything the same. For example, for years dining room tables came as a matching set. Now, more and more people are opting for mismatched tables and chairs to create a unique look.

6. Never Combine Patterns

Traditionally interior designers agree — never mix two patterns together. However, the maximalists of the design space popped in and said "Actually you can, you just have to do it the correct way." The key to combining patterns? Stick to a color scheme that utilizes those colors in every aspect of the room. Trust us, it works!

There are plenty of interior design rules that should always be followed when crafting your home —utilize a focal point, create cohesion, and never use curtains that hang two feet off your ground, just to name a few. When it comes to the rest, we say, do as you please!

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