How to Use the Rule of Three in Decorating (The Easy Way)

How to Use the Rule of Three in Decorating (The Easy Way)

From simple and completely free upgrades such as rearranging your coffee table decor to extreme makeovers, the rule of three can help you craft a beautiful space that works every time, no matter your style!

But what’s the rule of three?

The rule states that, in design, we should arrange things in odd numbers as they are more eye-catching and can help achieve balance and harmony within a room.

While perfectly symmetrical designs can have a huge visual impact, it can be tricky to achieve. But the rule of three takes away any guessing and complexity, allowing you to create beautiful and effortless compositions when decorating your home.

It’s a foolproof formula you can use to create a beautiful and stylish room that looks –and feels- in perfect balance.

The easiest way to go about it is to take it literally. Group three objects that have something visual in common together. Try it with pillows! Pair three different-sized pillows on your couch, take a step back and check how it looks.
The more similar the items are, the better, but size and height can differ to create more visual interest.
You can also try to pair five items, seven, nine… you get the gist!

Now, let’s see this golden rule of interior design in action with some stunning inspirational examples!

The Perfect Pillow Arrangement

One of the easiest ways to start using the rule of three is with pillows – as I mentioned at the beginning of this post. On this lovely sofa, we can see how three throw pillows in different sizes and patterns break up a very neutral seating setup.

Layer Texture Using The Rule Of Three

Grouping things together in three works every time, but it’s not reserved for just decorative items!
Using this golden ratio, we can play with texture, too.

For example, in this living room, the color scheme is almost entirely neutral but doesn’t feel flat. Why? Because the contrast was added by layering three different types of textures within the same color scheme.
The rug continues the all-white decor but makes it more interesting, while the chunky throw blanket and the lightweight fabric of the couch make the room cozier, without adding color.

Coffee Table Decor

This design is a prime example of how to use the rule of three when decorating your coffee table. The items are paired in odd numbers, playing with sizes and heights by putting the candles up on top of a large displaying tray.

Mix Up Patterns Using the Rule of Three

Along with textures, patterns are another cool way to add more visual appeal to your decor design.
In this coastal-inspired living room, the upholstery in soft grey lines is complemented by the patterned area rug in swirls of light blue and cream.

To add a harmonious contrast, the pillows feature a floral blue pattern.

The Reading Nook

 

Pairing three main objects as the golden rule of three suggests, can change the vibe of a room.
By placing a curved floor lamp, a chair, and a pink pouf, you can turn a dull unused corner of your home into an inviting spot to unwind with a good book. Just like in this example!

A Bright Way to Use a Color Triad

Using the rule of three allows you to keep a well-balanced room even when using bold colors, without overpowering the space.

We can see that in action in this lovely traditional sunroom. The same vibrant yellow was used in three focal points of this room. This created a colorful design while keeping the space from looking too busy.

The Ideal Lighting Ensemble

The glass pendant lights trio hanging over the blue kitchen island prove how paring three items always works.
Hanging over the blue kitchen island, this lighting ensemble immediately catches your eye. It elevates the entire room from blah to wow!

Wall Decor For Small Spaces

This little spot shows how a small change in decor can instantly transform the vibe of a space. It is a perfect example of how adding three identical items in shape but different in color and texture can give a blank wall a lovely aesthetic.

The Rule of Three: Bedroom Gallery Wall Layout

Are you a fan of gallery walls? Then, this bedroom gallery wall is just what you need to get inspired!

The design uses the rule of three, placing eleven framed pictures on the same wall in 3 columns. This setup brings dimension to the room and adds visual appeal to the whole room.

Floral Arrangements: Easy Peasy Formula

To wrap up this post, let’s talk florals!

Floral arrangements can look expensive and difficult to do, but they don’t have to be!

Whether you need a bouquet to add to your tabletop decor or when hosting guests at home, the rule of three is a foolproof way to create a lovely and stylish arrangement. Even if you’ve never done one before!

Simply group 3 vases with similar heights together and then add an arrangement of wildflowers – it doesn’t get much easier than this!

The golden rule of three appeals to our sense of aesthetics, it’s simple to apply and works in any room of your home!