If you can’t seem to design your decorations correctly, the solution may be as simple as learning how to group your decorations. Whether you have too many items crammed together or not enough variation, this simple strategy used by the best designers can solve all your design puzzles.
The third is the magic number in home décor, which is why designers rely on the aptly named “rule of three” when designing almost everything. From trinkets to artwork to furniture, this design guide will help you create the perfectly curated space. Learn how interior designers use it to create impactful, balanced spaces.
What is the Rule of Three?
Putting items in groups of three will be pleasing to the eye and create a visually appealing balanced composition. Kristin Marino, interior designer and founder of Kozy Kasa, says, “Any item will look better when used in a group of three. In fact, “in general, odd numbers are a rule that all designers should follow,” she said.
It may not be logical, but grouping objects into odd numbers is more pleasing to the eye and memorable than grouping them by even numbers; It has to do with how our brains record things around us. The rule of thirds is a tried-and-true technique that is also applicable to other fields such as graphic design, artwork, and photographic composition.
Interior designer Paige Goodloe says, “I like to use the rule of thirds in interior design. It helps to create balance and beauty in the space. This rule can be applied to any design element, from colors, patterns and textures to the placement and organization of furniture and décor.
How to Use the Rule of Three for Decoration?
Use these ideas from experts to decorate your home with a three-piece set of furniture, artwork, and decorations.
1. Create a standout décor
Dividing items into groups of three can turn three different items into one unified and eye-catching item that looks like it’s intentional. Proportions are also important here. Combining tall objects with smaller ones creates further balance and directs our gaze around the composition, making it a more engaging visual experience. “Put three conical candlesticks of different heights on the shelves,” says Marino. “Or, try putting a decorative bowl on top of your coffee table book, and maybe a smaller candle or a taller vase together.”
2. Perfect your furniture arrangement
Whether you’re looking to fill a room or fill an awkward space, combining three pieces of furniture together can help define the space. For a casual setup, follow the same guidelines as décor by unifying three items of different shapes and sizes, such as chairs, side tables, and artwork. You can also add a rug to fix the vignette. To achieve a more formal look, symmetry can be created by placing two pieces of furniture of the same or the same size on either side of an object, such as two armchairs in a bay window and a small side table between them, or a sofa and two armchairs in a living room.
3. Stylistic works of art
“I like to use the rule of thirds on art,” Goodlow said. “I like to have three pieces of art on a king-size bed, two inches apart, and it feels like three is better than two.” She also suggested hanging two larger pieces of art underneath and a small mirror on top. “This creates a beautiful vignette,” she said. If you want to create a gallery wall or display a series of prints, you can expand the rule of thirds to the rule of five, seven, or nine, and so on – just stick to the odd number.
4. Create magic with color
You’re probably familiar with the 60-30-10 color rule that interior designers use to create a balanced color scheme. It’s actually the same tricolor rule, just slightly different, with color percentages of 60, 30, and 10. “The idea is to use no more than three main colors in your space,” Marino explains.
The predominant color should take up 60% of the space and cover the largest surface areas of the room, such as the walls. This forms the starting point for the rest of the scenarios. 30% of the colors are secondary colors and often contrast with the primary colors, bringing depth and interest to the space. We recommend using this shade on the most important objects in the room, such as sofas, curtains or headboards. The last 10% are accent colors that complement the secondary tones. “Introduce accent colors through smaller objects, such as throw pillows, artwork or decorative objects,” says Marino.
5. Position the cushion correctly
The beauty of interior design is in the details – including the throw pillows. “Place cushions on beds, sofas or sectional sofas, groups of three,” Goodlow said. “I put the biggest cushion in the back, followed by a 22″ x 22” square cushion with a small lumbar cushion in front. The different sizes and levels are pleasing to the eye. “Cushions make a sofa or bed more appealing and are a great opportunity to experiment with colors and textures.
6. Decorative lighting is dazzling
Combining decorative lights into three is a popular way to create an eye-catching feature. Hang three evenly spaced chandeliers above the kitchen island to create both a focal point and a central point and a sense of balance. Alternatively, a carefully arranged set of chandeliers is also a clever way to set the mood in a restaurant. Mix and match lights of different shapes and complementary colors and hang them at different vertical pitches to create a harmonious composition.