When studying at 'British College of Interior Design' I first learned about the basics of interior design.
Basics like the 'Elements of Interior Design' really helped me with finding guidelines I can follow during the design process. By following those simple rules I can make sure that I end up with a thought through and successful interior.
Some of them seem super obvious but when there are so many things to keep in mind, the obvious things might just be forgotten.
Size
A room in a house may be smaller than an open plan office but you don’t have to fit as much in it.
Scale
Choose elements which appear to be of an appropriate scale for the space they are to be located in, that relate well to human dimensions and appear visually as their actual size.
Proportion
This relates to the ratio of one design element to another or one element to the whole.
Harmony
All elements of an interior just relate to each other.
Unity
The design is seen as a whole, all parts of the design relate well. It can feel bland if everything in a room is perfectly matched or symmetrical.
Variety and Contrast
Surprise elements that prevent blandness, give different shapes, textures, colours and details.
Balance
Give a feeling of comfort.
Symmetrical balance: elements of a space are arranged to mirror each other on either side of an invisible central dividing line, axis or phone.
Radial symmetry: based around a central point with the design elements radiating out like the spokes of a wheel.
Asymmetrical balance: objects of different size and weight can be balanced by placement and also applies to shapes, colours and size.
Which form of balance I use is often dictated by the architect.
Symmetrical balance tends to give a more formal effect, while asymmetrical tends to be more informal and open to change.
Rhythm
The way objects and furnishings form pleasing rhythmic patterns to the eye of the viewer due to their scale and placement.
Emphasis
Elements can be emphasised so they appear important, while more minor elements are subordinated.
To develop a scheme, consider the level of importance of all elements and then the right visual importance to give those elements.
Thank you for reading!
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