What is the 80/20 rule in decorating?

The 80/20 rule in decorating is a principle that suggests focusing 80% of your efforts and budget on the foundational elements of a room (such as furniture, layout, and color scheme) and 20% on decorative accessories and accents (like artwork, cushions, and small accessories).

Here's how it works:

80% – Focus on the Core Elements

This includes the larger, more permanent elements of the room that form the base of your design. These are the items that have the most impact on the room's overall look and feel:

• Furniture: The main pieces like sofas, chairs, tables, and storage pieces. Choose furniture that is comfortable, functional, and fits with the overall style you're aiming for.
• Color Palette: The primary color scheme that ties the room together. This could be neutral tones or bold colors, depending on the vibe you want to create.
• Lighting: The essential light fixtures (ceiling lights, lamps, sconces) that provide both function and ambiance.
• Layout: The arrangement of furniture to create flow and optimize the space for its intended use.

20% – Add Personality with Accessories

Once the core elements are in place, the remaining 20% focuses on the finishing touches that bring personality and warmth to the space. These decorative elements help make the room feel unique and personal:

• Accessories: Throw pillows, rugs, vases, lamps, and decor pieces that complement the furniture and color scheme.
• Art and Wall Decor: Wall art, mirrors, shelves, and other wall-mounted items that add visual interest.
• Small Details: Items like candles, books, plants, and sculptures that further personalize the space and add layers of texture and color.

Why It Works:

• Prioritization: It helps you focus on the most impactful elements first. The foundational items like furniture and layout have a bigger influence on the look and feel of the room than smaller accessories, so they should take precedence.
• Budget-Friendly: By investing more in the larger pieces, you can find affordable ways to accessorize and still achieve a polished, cohesive look.
• Flexibility: Accessories are easy to change over time, so the 20% allows you to refresh the room without needing a complete redesign.

In essence, the 80/20 rule helps you create a balanced, cohesive design by focusing on the essentials first and using accessories to enhance the space without overwhelming it