Many decorating rules express a preference rather than a fact about how every home should look.
Test the room
Furniture can work against a wall or away from it depending on dimensions and circulation. Dark or light colours behave differently with lighting and neighbouring finishes. Try samples and temporary arrangements before making a permanent decision.
Keep practical constraints
Personal preference does not remove safety, access or approval requirements. Secure tall furniture, preserve ventilation and check permissions for fixed changes. Choose the layout that supports actual use and budget. There is no need to follow or reject a style simply because it appears on a list of myths.
