Exceptions to Design Rules

by Sherry Holetzky | More from this Blogger

19 Feb 2007 06:15 AM

There are so many design rules, who can keep track? This works, that doesn't, and sometimes things that should work won't, or things that shouldn't work will. There are some common guidelines that many people follow, but for every design rule, there is at least one exception. Design is about personal taste and style and expressing your personality, so yes, some rules should be broken.

Matching Hardware

Matching hardware, such as that found on kitchen cabinetry to your appliances is a commonly held rule. Stainless appliances in a kitchen generally mean the hardware will be some type of silver metallic, chrome, brushed nickel, or steel. With black appliances, black hardware is often used to complement them. However, white hardware does not always do a kitchen justice, even if you have white appliances. White hardware looks best on white or other light, neutral colored cabinets, and usually works better, when it is intended to blend in rather than to stand out.

Adding Contrast

With today's home décor focusing on comfort, design plans often attempt to blend and incorporate coordinating colors and elements together to create a soothing, relaxing feel. Yet, a certain amount of contrast is a good thing. This is one reason that so many designers insist on adding at least a touch of black or another deeply contrasting color to each space even if it doesn't seem to particularly "go" with the design. Whether it is as subtle as a picture frame, or something more obvious like a lamp, a little bit of black can make a big impact.

Color Trends

Color trends are an important consideration when it comes to decorating or redecorating, but again some rules are meant to be broken. Just because a particular color is "in" does not necessarily mean it will work in any given space. The style and architecture of the home as well as existing furnishings and accessories may also play a role in determining which colors work best. Some colors are also classics and can either be used alone or in combination with popular color trends.

Learn more about Sherry Holetzky

Sherry Holetzky is a work at home mom and freelance writer. Married to her best friend, Sherry and her husband are raising their family in a quiet rural setting in the beautiful Ozark Mountains.

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