The difference between a design expert and someone who's read a book is how they bend the rules. It's easy to remember a rule, but creativity and the ability to assess style can't be as easily learnt. Keep in mind these 3 classic decorating rules of thumb that even the experts agree have been holding us back for too long!

1. Go light with dark colours
   Design experts love using dark colours, and, even in a light room, they're masters at finding the perfect ratio of black to white. It's true, dark colours can make a space seem smaller, they bring down tall ceilings and pull in wide walls. But, they also make a room more interesting and furniture stand out. If you're worried about dark walls, put white or bright statement pieces over spare wall patches to open the space back up.
2. Don't mix styles
   Getting a clear whiff of a certain style is important when looking at a themed room, but that doesn't mean it should break your nose. It's okay to add different elements of different styles to a room. When the professionals design personal rooms, it's important to use different styles to represent the personality of the owners.Yes, sometimes someone's perfect style is entirely one way- but most people can safely add more variety to a home with different looks and pieces.
3. White is boring
   Whoever said white is boring has never experienced Paris chic. Sure, it's a safe option most of the time, but it's because the colour is so versatile that it can be used in so many styles and to get so many different effects. Classic or modern, there's a reason white is everywhere and that, in itself, doesn't make it boring!