We get a lot of questions from readers and clients alike, often. The most commonly themed question is, “Is this alright?” Usually, they’re referring to something they wish to do in their own home, that probably goes against their mother’s great aunt’s sister’s cousin’s dog’s wishes. Because in one way or another, we’ve all been pre-programmed to follow the “rules”. {Whatever those are, because I’m side eyeing some poor design choices circa 1979 and I don’t really think anyone has a right to say anything…}
If we’ve ever said one thing over and over again here, {okay fine, there have been a few mantras} is that we love seeing people do the things they love. We really hate when others are stifled by silly rules of the past, from table scape limitations to ceiling colors. Personally, I think our love for creating a home came from a desire to color outside those proverbial lines. I have a background in design, so I was emboldened to just go for it, at a time in my life when I found all brown glossy furniture circa 2002 Bombay boring and expensive. It may have seemed easy for me, but I assure you as a lifetime rule follower, it took me a minute to get over myself.
So we’re here to remind you that the rules are here so you can break them. And while some may not feel very confident in the design category of life, here are a few guidelines for rule breaking. If it 1. looks intentional 2. makes you happy 3. enchances your home {and ultimate wellbeing}… you can do whatever you want. Bonus if it feels classic, because not everything will and that’s okay. Yes, these are all small minutia of little details to consider because there’s a difference between stifling rules and good design.
This is your reminder that “The rules” exist so you can break them. If you’re feeling stifled in your own home, here are a few things {big and small} we’ve done in ours that are probably considered a little taboo by some:
1. Paint your piano.
Yep. I’m sure we sent a few piano purists over the top with this one. But “Murphy” as he was aptly named after the friend from which he was purchased, is a happy old soul, and the center of attention at dinner parties. He looks better in blue. We wouldn’t have it any other way.
2. Place the art behind the headboard.
Because sometimes bigger is better. Yes, this may seem trivial. It’s a small rule. Break it.
3. Build on.
Our home was purchased for the yard, school system + location. Sometimes finding the value in something is creating the perfect home you envision… not finding it. From under 1650 square feet, to over 3700… I don’t think this is considered the “norm”. I do what I want. After I get my permit, of course.
4. Also, don’t have a porch? Build one.
{Bonus round. Because even though a cabana isn’t for everyone, most houses can add a porch to suit your needs.} Pool not necessary. Striped ceilings are a definite yes, but I’m biased.
5. Let there be light.
Don’t have the right windows? Add them. Also, bye walls. We can stop freaking out over losing them now. We have multiple rooms and we love our house. Do what’s right for you. This is basically an entirely different post, but you guys get the gist.
6. Double up.
This one is small, but believe it or not, it’s more than okay to double up on the rugs… especially when that fireplace is actually kind of perfect in the corner, but presents an intriguing conundrum. {See the looks intentional guideline.}
7. Short on storage?
Add it. From bookshelves and built ins to cabinets and closets… older houses aren’t exactly known for their storage element. Add your own.
8. Doors don’t have to swing.
Short on wall {and room!} space? Doors can add so much more available space, when you need them to. Don’t be afraid to consider pocket doors or the door-on-hardware look, which isn’t going out of style as long as you choose something fun.
Another win for the storage department, where we knocked through these walls for more space!
9. Wallpaper and add color to your home, like you’re never moving.
Too many people shy away from it out of fear of things they’ve totally made up. We live in color, so you may as well be expressive. Life is short. You could die. Stop overthinking it. Thank you for coming to my Ted Talk.
While we’re at it, you can be a little bolder with those tile choices, too. You’re allowed and you won’t tire of it. Promise.
10. Don’t forget that fifth wall.
Paint the ceiling, add elements like planks, beams, and more.
Also, you can totally do an accent wall if you want. I saw an “influencerrrrrrrr” get all snarky a few months ago about it on insta and no one cares. Do what you want. Stop telling others they can’t. It works well in this room amongst others…
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