4 Interior Design Rules You Should Always Follow

Whether you’re designing a new home or refreshing a familiar space, there are a few timeless interior design rules worth following. These foundational principles ensure your home feels both cozy and cohesive while reflecting your unique style.

At Binkley Nash Furniture & Design, we believe great design goes beyond trends—it’s about creating spaces that balance beauty, comfort, and function. As Gallatin’s premier furniture store and design firm, our team understands how to blend elegance with the welcoming warmth of Southern living.

Here are a few expert-approved home décor rules to help you design a home that feels refined, inviting, and unmistakably yours.

Create a Focal Point: A Key Interior Design Rule

Every room deserves a clear focal point—a visual anchor that draws the eye and sets the tone for the space. It could be a statement piece of furniture, a striking work of art, or even architectural details like a fireplace or window view.

Your focal point should tell a story. Layer in thoughtful lighting, textures, and color contrasts to enhance the area and make it stand out.

At Binkley Nash, we often help clients create focal points that reflect their personality—whether it’s a custom sectional in the living room, a dramatic light fixture over the dining table, or a curated gallery wall that adds heart to the home.

Establish Balance

Balance is one of the most important interior design principles. A well-balanced room feels comfortable and harmonious, even if you can’t immediately pinpoint why.

You can achieve balance through symmetry, scale, and thoughtful placement of colors, patterns, and materials. Try pairing large statement pieces with lighter accents, or distribute textures evenly across the space to keep the eye moving naturally.

In Southern homes—where comfort and hospitality are key—balance helps your interiors feel both lived-in and elegant.

Understand Color Theory

Color can completely transform how a space feels. The right palette can make a room feel open and airy, cozy and grounded, or bold and energizing.

When planning your home décor, choose shades that complement each other and support the purpose of the space. Soft neutrals paired with earthy hues—like clay, cream, and sage—work beautifully in Middle Tennessee homes, reflecting the natural beauty of our surroundings.

If you’re not sure where to start, our design team can help you build a color story that ties your entire home together.

Prioritize Functionality

Beautiful design should also make your life easier. A stunning room that isn’t practical won’t feel right in the long run. Before choosing furniture or décor, consider how the space will be used and how people move through it.

From durable performance fabrics to multi-functional furniture, the goal is to create a space that works as beautifully as it looks. After all, your home should feel as welcoming as it appears.

Design with Intention

While some design rules are flexible, these timeless principles form the foundation of a well-curated home. When beauty and functionality come together, the result is a space that feels intentional, inviting, and uniquely you.

If you’re ready to elevate your home, visit our Gallatin showroom to explore our curated collections of furniture, lighting, and décor. Or call 615-452-7092 to schedule a personalized design consultation—our team would love to help you bring your vision to life.