9 Decor Rules You Can Break

Why It Works: Melding contemporary lighting and wall treatments with 18th-century furnishings is a daring task, but a warm color palette of cream, camel and blue ties the room together.

Why It Works: Usually oversized potted plants can make ceilings look lower and rooms feel cramped. Here, they play up the symmetry of the other pairs in the room: the two paintings, the two statues and the two interlocking circles on the chair backs.

Why It Works: The classic dining room gets an effortless upgrade with mismatched chairs that play up the pop art and hints of bright color. Try this if you entertain a lot but prefer to mix and mingle versus having a proper sit-down.

Why It Works: Clutter on the stairs is usually a sign of commotion, but here it's controlled and curated. Small stacks of books all organized to the left side signal the homeowner's personality and style.

Why It Works: In spite of the packed walls, grouping similar items together (like with the cheetah prints and the portraits) provides a bit of organized chaos. Remember to keep the walls and floors a lighter color for balance.

Why It Works: The lack of a shower door and the openness of this master bath play up the airy vibe of this Brazilian home. The fixtures are all minimal just like the floor plan, while various features like the furniture prevent the space from feeling stark.

Why It Works: Custom built for consummate entertainers, this space has a symmetry and simplicity that prevent it from feeling too vast or unmanageable.

Why It Works: When layering patterns in a room, the key is to strike a balance of light and heavy: slim stripes, bright colors, minimal florals and a cohesive color.