Why does it matter if you style your home?

You may be thinking that styling your home feels like unnecessary excess. Maybe you are more of a minimalist than a collector? Either way, I am guessing that if you are reading this, you would love a cozy and welcoming home?

I’m here to tell you that there are endless ways to style your home with thoughtful layers, without feeling like it is all just there to collect dust. The key is to make your home personalized to you through styling your surfaces and adding layers.

Today I am sharing a simple tip that will elevate your home styling to the next level. We will be tackling the rules of threes and how you can use this trick to confidently style your home.

THE RULE OF THREES

What is the Rule of Threes (or odd numbers) in home styling?

The Rule of Threes is a design principle used to make a space appear visually cohesive. It originates from Feng Shui, where it is believed that The Rule Of Threes creates more energy in a room.

When looking at a styled space, it is more visually appealing to our eyes to look at a grouping of odd numbers. Our eyes are able to identify, skim, and rest on a set of odd-numbered items more so than even-number groupings.

I always use The Rule of Threes, or really, a rule of odd numbers when it comes to styling. For example, if you are styling with four stacks of books on your coffee table, treat them like a single surface that you add odd numbers of items to like a bowl and two trinkets. Add items to get the odd numbers to be the first thing you see.

Let’s explore where The Rule of Threes can be practiced in your home.

BOOKSHELVES

I’ve styled A LOT of bookshelves in my day, and I will forever reference the rule of threes when it comes to a tricky shelf. The rule of threes is a go-to that has not failed me to date. Check out the examples above to see if you can count a variation of three items or “groupings” on each shelf.

You can approach this method of styling from any angle and it always works. Where there are two picture frames, add a third to round it out. Where there are two vases or baskets, fill one with florals to give it a purposeful boost that includes your third item. Where you have a lonely single item, add two more pieces to make it feel more purposeful.

ARTWORK

I always start in the middle of a gallery wall and work my way out. Inevitably, this leads to an odd number of pieces. I love a great column of three artwork pieces hung on a narrower wall.

There are so many great uses of the rule of threes, and they always pan out looking curated and purposeful. Start with three and work out from there with odd numbers as you go.

FURNITURE PLACEMENT

Start to look deeper into your inspiration images to identify why groupings of three feel more complete. You’ll be surprised at how much you notice it being used, even with larger-scale furnishings. You’ll also be surprised at how “off” things feel when they are not placed in threes.

Two chairs always feel better with a table in between them to round out the rule of threes. Throw pillows can feel more purposeful when styled in variations of three. The end of a sofa (1) typically feels more supported by a table (2) and a lamp (3). The rule of threes can be used in any aspect of interior design.

If you want more design tips for styling your home check out these posts:

How To Style Surfaces Throughout Your Home

5 Ways To Make Your House More Cozy

Want more of our MMDH Furnishing Rules of Thumb?

We are excited to announce the newest design guide in our offering! Our manual for scaling a room of furniture. I’ve compiled my 20+ years of interior design knowledge into this easy-to-follow manual, room by room and item by item.

This guide includes a section fully dedicated to my rules for styling any space. If you struggle with styling your surfaces or arranging an entire room of furnishings, this is for you! Check it out in the link below!

xo,

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