design rules you should definitely break

When it comes to expressing yourself at home, sometimes it's best to ignore the "supposed tos" and do your own darn thing instead. As proof, we offer these rule-breaking rooms from six of our favorite designers.

- ERICA FINAMORE

1 Never Block a Window

Occasionally you have to! For example, in a bedroom that can't otherwise fit your bed. Designer Orlando Soria (@mrorlandosoria) has a smart trick: "I tend to like a spindle headboard so light can still travel through." He framed these windows with velvet shades that feel like an extension of the bed.

2 Everything Should Be Symmetrical

Holy trapezoid! "We chose to vault the ceiling, and that created a dramatic angle," says interior designer Shannon Eddings (@shannoneddingsinteriors) of this sitting room. To emphasize the unusual shape, she went with a wallpaper that's more like a mural. The mismatched chairs, end tables, and lamps add to the asymmetrical look and somehow bring cohesion.

3 Trim Should Be White