Define Any Room: A Comprehensive Guide to Interior Design Rules

by Jasmine January 19, 2026

written by Jasmine January 19, 2026

How to Define Any Room: 5 Essential Design Rules

Select the Right Size Rug for Your Space

Rugs play a crucial role in defining the proportions of a room. Interior designer Brittney Ferguson emphasizes the importance of choosing the correct size rug to avoid making a space appear smaller than it actually is. Ideally, all furniture legs should rest on the rug. For custom rugs covering the entire room, maintain a minimum distance of four inches and no more than two feet from the baseboards.

Allow the Form to Follow the Function

“Form follows function” is a fundamental design principle that applies to both architecture and interior design. Melinda Trembly, an interior designer at Rincon Rd., advises referencing this rule in all design decisions, from large architectural choices to minute details. Prioritize livability, comfort, and functionality that aligns with your lifestyle. Consider questions such as traffic flow, storage space, natural light, and the functionality of door hardware.

Be in Control of the Brightness

Lighting significantly impacts the ambiance of a space. Ferguson recommends installing dimmer switches on overhead lights for easy mood adjustment. Eleanor Trepte, an interior designer at Dekay & Tate, suggests using accessory lighting such as lamps and sconces to create a serene and inviting atmosphere.

Listen to the Architecture of Your Home

Respect the architectural style of your home when making design decisions. Trembly advises against trying to transform a home into something it’s not. Embrace the existing architecture and use it as a guide. While honoring the era of your home’s construction, feel free to incorporate eclectic elements and personal touches to create a unique and one-of-a-kind space.

Show Off Your Personality

Your home should reflect your personality and style, not the latest trends. Trembly encourages incorporating personal items that tell a story about your past, present, and future. Display artwork, travel souvenirs, and any objects that bring you joy. These personal touches will transform your house into a true home.

Additional Tips for Defining Your Space

Accessorize: Add character and functionality to your space with pillows, throws, plants, and other decorative items.
Experiment with Layouts: Don’t be afraid to try different furniture arrangements to find the one that best suits your needs and aesthetic preferences.
Consider Scale: Pay attention to the scale of your furniture and décor in relation to the size of your room. Oversized items can overwhelm a small space, while tiny pieces can get lost in a large room.
Use Color Wisely: Color can significantly impact the mood and atmosphere of a room. Choose colors that reflect your personality and create the desired ambiance.
Add Greenery: Plants add color, life, and purification to your space. Incorporate them into your design to create a more inviting and refreshing environment.
Seek Professional Help: If you’re struggling to define your space, consider consulting an interior designer. They can provide expert advice and guidance to help you create a room that truly reflects your style and meets your needs.

Jasmine

Jasmine's journey began with a camera in hand and a heart brimming with stories. The world, for her, wasn't just a collection of sights and sounds; it was a vibrant tapestry woven with intricate details, each one waiting to be captured and explored. This inherent curiosity naturally led her to the written word, where she discovered the power of language to weave narratives that resonated with the soul. Jasmine's articles in LifeScienceArt's life section are a testament to this synergy. Her words dance across the page, painting vivid pictures that transport readers to the heart of the experience. Whether it's the quiet contemplation sparked by a morning sunrise or the electrifying energy of a bustling city street, Jasmine has an uncanny ability to translate the essence of a moment into words that resonate. But Jasmine's talents extend far beyond the written word. With a keen eye for detail and a photographer's soul, she sees the world through a unique lens. Her photographs are more than just snapshots; they're windows into hidden emotions and unspoken narratives. A single image, captured with Jasmine's signature touch, can evoke a kaleidoscope of feelings, prompting introspection and igniting a sense of wonder in the viewer. The way she plays with light and shadow, or the way she finds beauty in the ordinary, speaks volumes about her artistic vision. It's clear that Jasmine doesn't just see the world; she feels it, deeply and passionately. This depth of feeling is evident in her writing as well. Jasmine's articles are infused with a raw honesty that connects with readers on a personal level. She doesn't shy away from exploring the complexities of life, the joys and sorrows, the triumphs and failures that we all experience. But even when tackling difficult topics, there's an underlying optimism in her words, a belief in the inherent resilience of the human spirit. Jasmine's writing encourages readers to embrace the full spectrum of life's experiences, to find beauty in the unexpected, and to navigate the challenges with courage and grace. One gets the sense that Jasmine's own life is a continuous exploration, a constant search for new experiences and perspectives. Whether it's venturing off the beaten path to capture a hidden gem through her lens or delving into the depths of human emotion through her writing, Jasmine thrives on the journey itself. This inherent sense of adventure is infectious, inspiring readers to embark on their own explorations, both internal and external. Jasmine's work isn't just about capturing moments; it's about igniting a spark of curiosity and a desire to live life to the fullest. Perhaps the most captivating aspect of Jasmine's work is the sense of intimacy it evokes. Reading her articles feels like having a conversation with a close friend, someone who understands the nuances of life and isn't afraid to share their vulnerabilities. This ability to connect with readers on a personal level is what makes Jasmine's writing so powerful and enduring. It's a testament to her own authenticity and her genuine desire to connect with others through the magic of words and images.