What is the rule of 3 flooring?

The Rule of 3 for flooring in interior design is a guideline that suggests using three different types of flooring or flooring materials within a space, but in a way that feels harmonious and balanced. This principle helps create depth, visual interest, and functionality without overwhelming the space with too many competing styles or patterns.

How the Rule of 3 Works:

1. Primary Flooring (60-70% of the space):

   • This is the dominant flooring type that will cover the majority of the area. It sets the tone for the room or open-plan space.
   • Examples: Hardwood, laminate, or large-format tiles.
   • The primary flooring should be chosen based on the room's function and the overall design style you’re going for. In a living room or hallway, hardwood might be the dominant choice, while in a bathroom, larger tiles or stone could be the foundation.

2. Secondary Flooring (20-30% of the space):

   • The secondary flooring complements the primary flooring and is used in smaller, defined areas within the room or adjacent rooms.
   • Examples: Rugs, area carpets, or a different type of tile.
   • This can help to define areas in open-plan spaces, such as separating the living room from a dining area. It can also serve to add texture or warmth to the space.

3. Accent Flooring (10-20% of the space):

   • The accent flooring is typically used sparingly and adds a unique, bold design element. It can be used to highlight specific features or zones in the room.
   • Examples: A different pattern, material, or color that’s used for a feature wall, staircase, entryway, or small area (like a kitchen island or bathroom).
   • Accent flooring can be used to create contrast and add visual appeal without dominating the entire room. It could also be used for a border, feature inlays, or decorative patterns.

Where to Apply the Rule of 3 Flooring:

• Open Floor Plans: In a space like a living-dining area, where you want to visually differentiate areas without using walls, you can use one type of flooring for the living area, a rug or different material for the dining space, and possibly a distinct accent flooring in the entryway or around the fireplace.

• Multi-Room Spaces: In adjacent rooms like a kitchen and living room, you might choose hardwood for the living room, tile for the kitchen, and a decorative area rug to create a transition between the two areas.

• Accent Zones: In hallways, bathrooms, or entryways, the use of accent flooring can highlight these areas with contrasting materials or patterns, like marble in the entryway, carpet in the hallway, and wood in the living room.

Why It Works:

• Balance and Contrast: The Rule of 3 allows for a mix of materials that create contrast, while maintaining visual harmony.
• Functionality: Each type of flooring serves a specific function in the space. For example, tiles are practical for kitchens and bathrooms, while hardwood or carpet is more comfortable for living areas.
• Interest and Depth: It keeps the space from feeling too monotonous by adding layers of different textures, colors, and materials.

Things to Consider:

• Coordination: Make sure the flooring types coordinate in terms of color, texture, or pattern. Too much variation in these areas can lead to a space feeling disjointed.
• Space Size: In smaller spaces, using three different types of flooring might make the space feel cluttered. In larger spaces, it can create zones or visual interest without overwhelming the eye.
• Flow: Ensure the different flooring materials transition well, especially in open-concept or multi-use spaces. Transition strips or thresholds can be used to make the changes less jarring.

Example:

• Living Room: Hardwood floors as the primary flooring.
• Dining Area: Area rug as secondary flooring to define the space.
• Accent Area: A decorative tile border around a fireplace or a unique material in the entryway to add contrast.

By following the Rule of 3 Flooring, you can achieve a stylish and balanced design that enhances the functionality of your space while maintaining visual interest.