How to Fake Symmetry at Home (and Why It Works)

Symmetry is one of those design principles that instantly makes a space feel more pulled together. Think calm, balanced, grown up. But let’s be honest. Most of us aren’t living in perfectly proportioned Georgian homes with two matching sash windows and a fireplace bang in the middle. Life isn’t symmetrical and neither are our living rooms.

The good news? You can totally fake it.

At Pupsi Home we love finding clever low effort ways to make your space feel considered and cohesive without spending a fortune. So if your layout’s a bit wonky or your windows just don’t line up here’s how to cheat symmetry like a pro.

1. Match the Mood Not the Pieces

Start by thinking about balance not mirroring. Two identical lamps can feel a little showroomy but two pieces that are visually equal in presence can do the same job in a more interesting way. Pair a table lamp with a vase of flowers or a floor lamp with a tall plant. It’s the height and weight that matter not the carbon copy.

2. Use Colour to Anchor

Repeating colours in your space helps the eye travel and gives a sense of calm and rhythm. Try adding the same tone on opposite ends of the room a cushion here a lampshade there. Instant balance. Instant harmony.

3. Float the Furniture

It’s tempting to shove everything against a wall especially in awkward shaped rooms but creating symmetry often means bringing things in. Float your sofa or armchairs slightly away from the wall and use rugs consoles or art to frame and centre the space. You’ll trick the eye into seeing balance even if the room isn’t playing fair.

4. Art as a Secret Weapon

Hanging two prints side by side is the most obvious trick in the book. But if you don’t have a pair use one oversized piece and style objects around it to create a sense of structure. Even asymmetrical gallery walls can feel symmetrical when grounded by a centred anchor point below think a bench or a credenza.

5. Style Your Surfaces in Pairs

You don’t need twins just siblings. Style each end of a mantel bookshelf or console with items of similar scale candlesticks on one side stacked books on the other. It’s about creating visual conversation. No one needs to know it wasn’t perfectly planned.

6. Trick the Architecture

Curtains can be a game changer. Hanging them wide and high gives the illusion of bigger better windows. Got one awkward window? Add a second curtain panel to fake the look of a pair. Magic.

7. Mirrors Are Your Best Friend

Mirrors bounce light open up corners and can visually double a room. Placed thoughtfully they can balance a lopsided layout or reflect something beautiful on the other side of the room. Use them like art but smarter.

Design That Works Around Real Life

At Pupsi Home we know that homes aren’t perfect. But they don’t need to be. A few clever styling tricks and a bit of confidence can totally transform the feel of a room. If you’re not sure where to start that’s what we’re here for.

Explore our interior design packages. Whether you need a full room rethink or just a stylish starting point we can help you create a home that feels both relaxed and refined.

Ready to fake your own kind of symmetry?
Get in touch and book your free discovery call with me.