Three Design Principles We Live By (And Why They Matter)

Above: Custom molding built by Sound Designs for a home on Long Island. Color: "Iron Ore" by Sherwin-Williams

Every designer, artist, or creative has certain rules and guidelines that help keep them on track. Here are three design principles that we live by here at Sound Designs New York:

1. Choosing the Right Materials

There's a saying that 90% of success is showing up. For us, 90% of building something beautiful and durable is choosing the right materials. If we're crafting a dining table, we start with boards that are straight, unblemished, and full of character. For outdoor pieces, we rely on black locust, an incredibly resilient species that ages beautifully and doesn't disappoint.

Of course, it takes longer to do things this way. The good news is, choosing the right materials for the job means you probably won't have to go back and fix things later.

"Salutations Sideboard": This sideboard has a design that is straightforward and needed extraordinary slabs to make it visually interesting and complete. Read the case study below for more. Photo by: Iri Greco, BrakeThrough Media

Case Study: Read about our Custom Sideboard Design project, where the right materials transformed the entire piece.

2. Embracing the Odd (Numbers)

When a design includes repeating elements—like shelves, sections, or decorative details—we almost always opt for odd numbers. Three shelves instead of two.

Five planks instead of four. Odd numbers create a sense of dynamic balance that feels more natural and engaging.

It's not a strict rule, but when it works, it adds a layer of intrigue that even sets just don't.

Above: Built-ins by Sound Designs in a Long Island home. The shelves are divided into five sections, in keeping with our design preference for odd numbers. The customer adorned the shelves and walls with unique artwork and vibrant colors.

3. Giving Ideas Space to Develop

Sometimes you need to think about a design for a while to arrive at the perfect solution. The ideas often come unexpectedly, and the timing can be less than ideal.

Key takeaway: Design takes time and probably shouldn't be rushed.

"The more circumspectly you delay writing down an idea, the more maturely developed it will be on surrendering itself." — Walter Benjamin, The Writer's Technique in Thirteen Theses

Why It Matters

Custom furniture isn't just about being handcrafted—it's about creating something that's uniquely yours. Our principles ensure every piece we build is:

1. Beautiful – Thoughtfully designed with character and care

2. Functional – Built to last and serve its purpose perfectly

3. Personal – Tailored specifically to your space and your life

   
   

Because you deserve something beautiful and handcrafted, not mass-produced.

What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments.