In this interior space, we see the use of both the principles and elements of design.
It is important for good design to enhance the quality of human life by giving a space and by apply certain principles and elements, we can achieve this.
In order to further understand, I have selected a photo of an interior which exhibits various the elements and principles and will identify these.
Elements of Design:
Line- The example photo has many lines within it's design. We see straight lines in the architectural structure of the built in book cases and organic more natural lines on the legs of the furniture as well as the mirror above the fireplace.
Space- We see that the interior of the picture is a space itself being an area within an enclosure.
Shape- The photo provides plenty of shapes. Squares are seen on the fireplace, while rectangles and circles can be seen as well. Although basic shapes are found, organic shapes are what stands out in this specific interior. For example, the lamps and furniture.
Form- Being that forms exhibit three dimension, boxes are found with the picture frames. As well as cylinders of the candles placed on the mantle.
Texture- Texture is a visual enhancement which provides the viewer with a sense of touch. In this space we see that the texture of the sofa and side chairs are smooth and the area rug is a shaggy soft.
Pattern- Pattern can be used to provide an orderly whole. The black and white stripes on the sofa are also reflected in the zebra print throw pillows on the side chairs.
Color and Light- The colors of this interior are vibrant and bright while the black and white of the room neutralizes it. The natural light allowed from the window provides the space with most of it's light.
Principles of Design:
Balance- While a sofa was selected on one side and two side chairs were selected for the other, the space is asymmetrically balanced. This provides equal weight on both sides which enhance the sense of equality. The built in shelving on either side of the fire place provides balance with both sides being exactly equal.
Rhythm- The repetition of the stripes on the sofa provides the eye with rhythm.
Emphasis- The color of the wall creates emphasis to the fireplace while the color of the side chairs also leads the eye in. The contrast of black and white stripes of the sofa also provides the sofa interest while in turn leads all the seating in the space to be emphasized.
Proportion- The space has even proportions throughout with all the furniture and accessories. leaving nothing to be too big or too small in the small which would create unbalance.
Scale- relating to the human form is of importance and each of the selections made are of scale to an average person lending comfort and stability.
Unity- while colored selections are made to create some emphasis, black and white in the space provides unity and sameness for the viewer.
Variety- having different shapes and colors provide the viewer interest like the selections made on the interior example.
Harmony- While we would like the space to have unity and be cohesive, variety and difference in objects provide interest. these two working together is important. The interior space has harmony within its selections of variety and unity which makes it harmonious.
As a designer it is important to recognize each of the elements and principles so that each space designed can be aesthetically appeasing to its viewers.
Until next time!
-Jentry Meliss
