Blog

Is There a Decorating Rule of 3?

Q: I keep buying more and more ‘stuff’ to decorate my house (plants, knick knacks, vases, and more). They all look so great in the store, but I can’t seem to get the same look at home. Is there a rule of 3? Or, some other rule that can help me with all these accessories?

A: Three is a great number! It represents family, the trinity and things that belong together. For smaller arrangements, including flowers, three or any odd number is used to get a well-balanced arrangement on all sides. I’m only guessing what you have in your ‘stash’, but there is a routine we follow when ‘staging’ someone’s home:

Home Decor

Start by clearing a table and place all your items out at once. Match up ‘like items’ such as vases, colours or themes. Pick three vases that are approximately the same colour, but of different heights, and place them in a room that has similar colours. Then, organize another grouping of three; substituting one vase with any knick knack that fits into the colour, size, or theme you are working with.

Size and weight are important; heavy objects (or heavy, dark colours) can weigh the display to one side. Counter this with a 4th or 5th item on the weaker side.

It is not necessary to fill all these ’empty vessels’. Sometimes, they can look great by themselves and at other times, you may want to include a real or fake plant in one, or stones and coloured glass in another. One thing I love to do is find a complementary (or contrasting) colour in the form of a place mat, napkin or scarf to place under the display. This seems to anchor the whole group.

Your decorating needs can change from month to month and season to season, so keep your displays fresh and dust free! Have fun experimenting!


About Kathryn Wilking

Author, Home Stager, Feng Shui Consultant

Kathryn Wilking Feng Shui

Kathryn has inspired women for more than a decade to take charge of their lives; arranging their environment, home and office, to support a positive, prosperous lifestyle. She provides informative tips and talks to organizations and small groups through her Facebook Group and Blog Posts and recorded podcasts. Contact her today for more info about bringing the practical application of Feng Shui into your space.

Her book, Practical Feng Shui for the Office; never goes out of style!
Would you like to chat with Kathryn? Join her for a Virtual Coffee Chat.

Find her on social media:
LinkedIn: Kathryn Wilking
Facebook: fb.com/KathrynWilkingDesigns
Twitter: @KathrynWilking

Leave a Reply

Close Popup

You have a Distinct Element Style from all the rest!

Are you a Wood, a Fire, an Earth, a Metal or a Water element?

Five elements TAKE THE QUIZ NOW

Testimonials

Kathryn was a joy to work with. Prior to my interview, Kathryn was understanding, supportive and consistent throughout. This was a remarkable experience and I appreciate her time and effort. Thank you Kathryn.

Daryl Ashley
Read All
Feng Shui 5 Elements

You have a Distinct Element Style from all the rest!

Find out how this advantage can work for you. Take my quiz to find out more!

Take the quiz now