Designer Secrets | The Rule of Three in Interiors
Have you ever looked at a perfectly styled coffee table or shelf and wondered, “Why does this just work?” The answer, more often than not, lies in one of interior design’s most trusted tricks: the Rule of Three.
This design principle is simple, yet incredibly powerful. Our eyes are naturally drawn to odd numbers, and threes, in particular, create just the right amount of visual interest without overwhelming a space. When used intentionally, this rule can bring effortless harmony and balance to your home.
At Olivia’s, we believe in styling that feels lived-in but elevated, and the Rule of Three is a perfect way to achieve that. Here are five ways you can use this timeless tip to transform your space, one trio at a time.
Style a Coffee Table with Layers and Life
The coffee table is the heart of your living room, and also one of the easiest places to experiment with the Rule of Three. Think of it as a stage: each item plays a role.
Start with a stack of beautiful books to ground the space. Add a candle or sculptural object for personality, then introduce a natural element—like a vase of fresh flowers or a strand of wooden beads. Varying heights, textures, and materials is key to keeping the trio dynamic and visually balanced.
Curate Your Shelves Like a Designer
Bookshelves can quickly turn into clutter zones or look too stiff when everything’s lined up neatly. The Rule of Three offers a simple fix. Try grouping objects in small sets of three: maybe a tall vase, a ceramic bowl, and a framed photo.
Keep your colour palette cohesive, and play with contrasting materials—glass, wood, metal—to add dimension. Leave enough negative space around each trio to let the styling breathe.
Mix Cushions with Purpose
When it comes to styling sofas or beds, cushions are your best friend. To get that “designer done” look, build your cushion story around three core elements: one solid, one patterned, and one with interesting texture—like velvet, linen, or boucle.
Don’t be afraid to vary shapes and sizes. A large square, a smaller square, and a lumbar cushion grouped together can instantly elevate the space while still feeling relaxed and inviting.
Craft a Calm, Intentional Vignette
Whether it’s a console table in the hallway, a bedside table, or a dresser in the bedroom, every surface tells a story. Use the Rule of Three to build a beautiful vignette. Start with something tall (like a lamp or a statement vase), add a medium-height object (like a tray or candle), and finish with a small decorative item—a piece of coral, a crystal, or a personal keepsake.
It’s a small styling moment that brings warmth and personality to a space.
Begin a Gallery Wall with Confidence
Gallery walls can feel overwhelming, but starting with a trio of framed prints makes things simple and striking. Hang them in a linear row for clean symmetry, or create a vertical stack for smaller wall spaces like hallways or beside a staircase.
Whether it’s abstract art, black-and-white photography, or meaningful illustrations, using three complementary frames is a foolproof way to start building a gallery wall that feels thoughtful, not cluttered.
The Final Word
Design isn’t just about how a space looks—it’s about how it feels. The Rule of Three gives your home that sense of quiet harmony, balance, and elegance without the stress of overthinking every corner.
So the next time you’re restyling a room, remember: three is your magic number.
Looking for timeless pieces to help you get started? Explore our curated selection of home accessories, soft furnishings, and art at Olivia’s—where effortless style lives.
