Elements and Principles of Design

1. Lines

• Lines gives birth to forms and shapes

• Lines are categorised into three types-

- Horizontal lines (resting lines) adorn structures like tables, chairs and beds

- Vertical lines (ready to act lines) can be found on windows, door, almirahs

- Dynamic or (movement lines) add drama and can be seen on structures like stairs, floors.

 

2. Form

• Forms mean shapes, an outline of any three-dimensional object in the space.

• It is created by combining two or more shapes and can be accentuated with the help of other elements like texture, patterns and colours.

 

3. Texture

• Texture refers to the roughness or smoothness of the surface of any object.

• Textiles such as pillow cover, bed spreads or drapes, wall paint or wallpapers have a texture.

• Silk, damask satin gives a formal texture while muslin, furs, tweeds gives informal texture.

 

4. Colour

• Colours establish an aesthetic connection between objects and set the mood.

• Colours must be chosen based on the psychology of the guest.

• Eg; Red is an excellent choice for dining room as it encourages appetite and blue for bedroom as it helps in destressing.

 

Principles of Design

• Ways of arranging and organising elements of design is called the “Principles of Design”

• Elements of design are used according to the principles of design.

 

1. UNITY & HARMONY

• It stresses on the fact that there should be a sense of uniformity or harmony among all the elements used.

• All the elements used should complement one another.

• A good understanding of alignment of objects, similarity of colour/ pattern/ texture, proximity (spacing) of objects to be kept in mind.

 

2. BALANCE

• Balance refers to equal distribution of objects in a room to create visual balance

• It is created by grouping shapes and colours around a centre that there are equal attractions on both sides from the centre.

 

Types of Balance

• Symmetrical/ Formal Balance

• Asymmetrical/ Informal Balance

• Radial Balance

 

A. Symmetrical/ Formal Balance

• Formed by placing objects of equal weight on each side at equal distance from the centre.

 

B. Asymmetrical/ Informal Balance

• Formed by placing objects on either side which are unmatched but still visually balanced.

• These balances are lively, more energetic and natural

• Informal balance is more creative than formal.

• Informal balance lets us stay interested.

 

C. Radial Balance

• Objects are placed around a central focal point either outward or inward.

• They are mostly circular and used in round rooms, dining rooms, swimming pool, atrium, conference room or staircases at times.

 

3. SIZE AND PROPORTION

• The principles of scale and proportion ensure that objects placed in a space look like they belong to each other. Be it the size, dimension, shape or colour of the objects, a harmony should be established between them and a proportion has to be maintained.

• Example: A high ceiling environment implies that high rise furniture should be preferred over low-rise furniture like ottomans.

 

4. EMPHASIS

• Also known as Focal Point.

• This can be achieved by placing central piece of art, unusual texture or furniture that grabs attention of a space.

• Elements must be used in such a way that the focal point dominates the rest of the décor items and pulls the room together.

 

5. RHYTHM

• Rhythm refers to movement.

• It is a visual flow that makes the eye move smoothly across the room.

• It may be rhythmic or organised.

 

Rhythm may be attained by:

A. Repetition

• Repetition of elements of design like colours, line, shape, texture in an organised way.

B. Alternation

• This is created by placing two or more elements in alternative platform.

 

​

ACCESSORIES

• Accessories are additional furnishings needed to make room viable or attractive.

• It includes small objects both functional and decorative.

• Eg; Richly coloured vases

 

TYPES OF ACCESSORIES

• Books and magazines

• Clocks

• Lamps

• Pictures

• Mirrors

• Wall hangings

• Small art objects

• Flower arrangements

 

PLACEMENT OF ACCESSORIES

• Wall – paintings, masks, carpets

• Shelves – ceramics, toys

• Floors – planters, statues, pots

• Tables – ashtrays, vases

• If figured or decorated place against plain wall

 

HOW TO PLACE ACCESSORIES

• Use accessories in moderation

• Use according to season and theme

• Use paintings at eye level

• Use bright colours to create a focal point

• Place mirrors in case of empty space

• Keep balance in mind

• Plain surfaces – place patterned accessories

• Patterned areas – plain accessories

• Shiny textures – dull textures

• Room with straight lines – curved lines

• Calm room – bright and bold accessories