Design Rules, Debunked
Design rules are made to be broken – or else home décor would be quite formulaic and boring! Read on for daring ideas on how to debunk 4 common myths. 
1) “Never Mix Patterns”
Never say never. Mixing prints will add welcome texture and variety. Be sure to pick a striking focal point – like an area rug or a chair – and complement with accents, pillows or artwork that can draw out some of the same color schemes. Don’t be afraid of plaids, medallions, bold stripes, or florals. The world is your palette!
2) "Choose One Metal" Got enough mettle to mix your metals? Sure you do! From brushed nickel to warm gold, you can highlight one primary finish and then use others as accents, just like you would an accessory. 
3) "Stick to One Wood Finish" Are you in love with a sideboard, but it doesn’t match your dining table? Do the legs to your sofa not match your end tables? Oh, the horror! Totally kidding. Mixing wood types can create contrast. If you have light maple wood floors, try a dark mahogany table. Light birch legs on your dining chairs? Mix in a white table.
In this Magnolia Dining set, notice the light wood of the chairs contrasting with the white table. But also notice the further balance: the wood paddle wall hanging, the Driftwood chandelier, and the white sideboard.[/caption And whatever you decide upon, be sure to spread the wood variation throughout the room so you can still achieve a balanced, harmonious effect.
4) "Always Hang Art at Eye Level" Sure, that’s a good rule of thumb. But who’s got two thumbs and knows some rules are meant to be broken? You! Instead of eye-level wall hangings throughout the house, try leaning large frames, mirrors, or canvases on the floor—or smaller elements on top of other pieces of furniture. The result may be even more interesting and give off an artsy vibe.
Start your design rebellion and start breaking these rules, today!
Visit bostoninteriors.com or a store near you to get going.
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