How to Decorate with the Rule of Three | Why the Odds are Always in Your Favor
Want to change the look of your home without spending a dime? Did you know things displayed in odd numbers are usually more pleasing to the eye? Read more to learn the Decor Rule of Three and how using it can make your home look professionally styled.
How to Decorate With the Rule of Three
Do you have a problem area on a counter or bookcase that you just can’t quite figure out? Do you not have a lot of time, but want to freshen up the look of your place? What if I told you there is an easy trick that can help you look like a decorating professional and takes only seconds to do? Sometimes it’s as easy as “playing the odds”.
I’m talking about the secret I discovered of the 3, 5, 7 rule. Did you know things displayed in odd numbers are usually more pleasing to the eye? Groups of three are the most popular. I use them consistently in my house. Let me show you.
Examples of Using The Rule of Three in Your Home
In the picture below the two items displayed are beautiful and have some color, but something looks a little off, like something is missing.
See how adding a third item finishes out the look.
This decorating tip can be used through out your house. How about a simple side table? Is there anything wrong with the vase and flowers below? No they match, and are fine, but again…it’s just a little plain.
Look what happens when you add a 3rd item? You gain more depth and a little pop of color. Much better!
Here’s another example. In the photo below, the lamp and flowers are lovely, but it still looks a little empty and unfinished.
You add a simple picture frame and it looks like a more complete look without over crowding.
Does the Rule of Three Always Work?
Will this be the case every single time and in every situation? No, there are always exceptions to every rule. Maybe you have one giant art piece that is a showstopper all on it’s own. Grouping it with other items might be distracting. Let that item shine!
Just keep in mind, when working with multiples, decorating with odds works best and makes your displays look polished and well thought out.
Groups of 5 & 7
Now let me show you with a group of 5. Will it really make a difference? Below you see 4 items on my distressed dresser. They are all pretty items, but the look doesn’t work. It’s because it’s in an even number.
What if I change the items, but not the number? Again, it’s just okay. Why is it not working if the pieces are all beautiful? It’s not the decor, it’s the number of items. Remember odds are the key here.
Lets try again with all 5 items. Nothing else will change except all 5 pieces will be on the dresser. Doesn’t it look so much better and complete? Now it’s not just random items on a dresser, it’s a design.
The next time you are making displays and they just aren’t looking quite right, ask yourself, am I using the odds in my favor? When you make displays in your house, look for different heights and then display them in groups of 3, 5, or 7. In the picture below I used the rule twice. I used 7 items (counting the jar as one item), and inside the jar I used 3 bars of soap.
This decorating rule really can make such a difference as you learn to put together displays. I know it seems too simple to really work, but it does (and aren’t those the best kinds of tricks?).
I always go by the rule of threes too! Makes such a better look! 🙂
That’s awesome Heidi! I’m glad it works for you too. I honestly didn’t know the rule and I could never figure out why my stuff never looks as cute as Kristy’s. Glad there are people out there like you and my sister to help the rest of us sad lot out. My house is slowly getting cuter as I implement the rule.