What I didn't know at 20 about creating a cohesive home.

The simple design trick that makes your home feel pulled together.

I got married at 20 years old. I know, you’re thinking “that’s crazy!” And honestly, it probably was (don’t worry, it’s been 22 years and we’re still happily married, so it all worked out)... but the point is, I was young. The summer before our wedding, a lovely woman in the neighborhood where my parents lived decided to throw me a bridal shower. A couple weeks prior to the impending shower, she called me on the phone and asked me for my “house colors” to include on the invitation. House colors? We were both still in college and had the exciting prospect of moving into a drafty basement apartment with berber carpet in the kitchen the week after we got married…needless to say I hadn’t given my “house colors” one thought. I think I mumbled something about liking blue and hung up the phone in shame.

That first apartment was… eclectic. I think I tried to make it cozy, but it turns out decorating with whatever hand-me-down furniture you’re given from your parents does not a cohesive home–er apartment make.

I think this is probably a common occurrence–not the young marriage– the feeling that your home isn’t cohesive.

Ever walk from room to room and feel like your house is… having a mood swing? The kitchen is bright and cheery, but the living room takes a sharp left turn into something else entirely, and by the time you get to your bedroom you’re wondering if you accidentally wandered into a neighbor’s house. Or maybe each room looks nice on its own, but together they feel completely at odds — a patchwork of pretty things that don’t quite speak the same language.

If this is you (or your house), there’s a simple trick that can help make your home feel intentional and harmonious: the Rule of Three.