The “first rule” of interior design is often stated as:
Form follows function — meaning a space should first and foremost serve its purpose, and then be made beautiful.
In practice:
- If a living room looks stunning but has nowhere comfortable to sit, it’s a fail.
- A kitchen with gorgeous marble counters but poor workflow will frustrate the cook.
Function sets the foundation; aesthetics enhance it.
Once that’s in place, all the other principles — balance, proportion, color — work in service of making the functional space feel inviting and visually pleasing.
I can also explain why some designers argue the real first rule is about understanding the user’s needs rather than just “function” in the abstract. Would you like me to unpack that nuance?