6 Design Rules for an Anti-Generic Home
Last week, I interviewed a designer who strongly follows and advocates for design rules, and while that method works for some, I advocate for a different, more personal approach to home design. I discussed various design rules, their origins, and how they can be broken to create a unique, joyful space that reflects individual style. I categorized design rules into three buckets: classical aesthetic principles, practical rules learned through trial and error by pros, and cultural trends. I believe in playing with these rules rather than strictly adhering to them. I shared my thoughts on specific rules such as lighting sources, scale of lampshades, furniture placement for flow, family portraits, rug sizes, and curtain lengths, emphasizing the importance of understanding the 'why' behind each rule. For me, design is more art than science, and I encourage exploring and creating a space that truly represents one's unique style. Slow Style is about enjoying the process of decorating and finding joy in creating beauty that resonates personally.
Watch this entire episode on YouTube HERE
KEY TAKEAWAYS
As you might have caught on in my last episode, I'm a fan of breaking conventional design rules and embracing what I call "Slow Style." It’s about savoring the process of creating spaces that uniquely reflect who we are rather than just following a predefined rulebook.
The Beauty in Breaking Rules
Last week, I interviewed a designer who thrives on rules—she values their structure and the peace of mind they offer her clients. This got me thinking about my own approach—slow style—which encourages a playful exploration of possibility over strict adherence to conventions.
Take, for instance, the classical design principles like the golden ratio or the rule of thirds. They've been heralded for ages and certainly have their place, but I love the idea of pushing the boundaries and asking, "What if?" What if we play with scales, like opting for a chandelier that's slightly oversized for your dining room? This willingness to question allows our spaces to echo our personal stories.
Lighting as a Sculpting Tool
Lighting, one of my favorite design components, offers an avenue to explore this slow style way of thinking. Instead of just sticking rigidly to having three light sources per room, I invite you to observe your space. See which areas crave light and which allow shadows to bring depth and interest. The three-light-source rule sprouted because many spaces lack sufficient lighting, but by carefully considering your space's needs, you’ll create a bespoke lighting environment that feels right for you.
The Contradictions and Surprises in Furniture Arrangement
Then there are those ubiquitous rules of furniture arrangement—you've heard them: don't block flow, always have a clearly defined path. Yet sometimes, going against these can yield stunning results. A friend of mine revitalized a spread-out family room by bringing seating closer, defying the norm for flow, and creating a cozier hub that invites intimate conversation. It's all about experimenting and seeing what truly feels inviting.
Reflecting Identity with Art and Photographs
Family portraits, another conversational topic, offer yet another breaking point. Typical posed photos can feel staged, but candid shots tell stories and capture moments—the essence of slow style. They hold aesthetic value and deep personal significance. It’s about telling a story on your walls, choosing art or photos that speak genuinely to who you are.
Rugs, Drapes, and the Rules We Rely On
Rug size, drapery length—the rules about these can feel rigid, yet they often serve a purpose in defining spaces. But what's beautiful about slow style is the flexibility even within these confines. A sheepskin beside your bed instead of a full-room rug can break up geometric lines, while floor-length drapes elongate a room, enhancing what's already present.
The Slow Style Journey
Slow style is what I advocate for because it relishes in making an intentional connection with the objects and spaces around us. If you love to experiment, to play with color and form, then slow style empowers you to do so with fewer constraints and more personal meaning.
This isn't a checklist of design tenets but rather an invitation to engage with your home as a canvas for your creativity and self-expression. If these thoughts resonate with you, then perhaps slow style is meant for you, too. Do explore the back catalog of our episodes while we're on a brief hiatus, and I’d love to hear what resonates with you.
Until March 17th
-Zandra