what are the main rules when designing a room from scratch? ive just met an interior designer and her home is so lovely, i want to copy all!! of her ideas but dont want to ask her about everything! would like to do things on my own but following the rules if you know what i mean. ie 4 or 3 pictures together on a wall look much better than 2 or even 1, depending on size of course!
I don't think that there are any rules, it is all down to personal taste and an eye for detail. Interior designers just have a better eye than others hence why they are interior designers!!
I agree, there are no rules otherwise all interior design would look the same. You have to do what you think looks good and what is right for your home.
The easiest way to start is to pick a room, then pick an object you like and work from that. ie a vase, a picture or a piece of wallpaper.
Storage is also essential, hide all of your 'clutter' away and the items you have out will stand out even more.
There are lots of magazines available that will give you ideas.