From classic color combinations to functional furniture layouts, there are a few select "rules" at t...

1. The Decorating 'Rule' Interior Designers Say It's Time To
Break (VIDEO)
From classic color combinations to functional furniture layouts, there are a few select "rules" at the
foundation of every well-designed room. Most professionals swear by these timeless mainstays, but,
according to interior designer Isla Schmidt, what may be the biggest design rule of all has actually
become the most overrated.
Maintaining perfect symmetry has long been associated with the composed sophistication that
makes rooms so appealing. Using traditional symmetry, however, isn't always the best design
strategy, as Schmidt explains to the web series #OWNSHOW.
"A lot of people think symmetry means things have to be equal," Schmidt says. "It really just means
balance. So, instead of doing two of the exact same thing -- matching pairs of things -- try to do
something a little different."

2. "Say you have a sofa and two side tables," Schmidt continues. "You have a lamp on one side, [but]
you don't have to do the same lamp on the other side. You could do a vase in a similar color or a
collection of objects so that they both balance, but it's a little more interesting."
The key here is not to go overboard with variations -- your room should still have consistency and
flow, without looking too "matchy."

3. "If you want to do two side tables that are the same, that works, but make sure the items on top of
the side tables are not the same," Schmidt suggests.
Related: Schmidt also explains the new rules for decorating windows, including how to select the
right type of curtains for your space.
More from #OWNSHOW
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/01/28/home-design-tips-rule-to-break_n_6557330.html