Elements of Design 101
Many years ago, when I first started my design practice, I taught a Continuing Education course on the Elements of Design. The six-week course was designed to teach the basics of good design when decorating on your own. I loved teaching those classes.
These elements were taught to me at school and continue to be the reason behind the selections I make for myself and my client’s home. I would also always tell my students that you did not have to be a designer to know when something in a room is "off" because I believe that design is also very instinctive.
Here are a few of those basics I taught so long ago.
Curvilinear and Rectilinear Lines
The key to good design is balance.
Every room has curves or lines whether it be the room itself or the furniture within it. We need to have a balance of lines and curves. When designing a room, I will always think about the shape of objects. So, if we pick a cleaned lined, track-armed sectional for a family room, I usually add some curved chairs for balance. A square coffee table will have round bowls set on top. Table lamps would have drum shades.
The easiest way to do this is to think of a weigh scale and look critically at your room and see if there are more lines than curves or vice versa. Try to find an equal blend of both to create a more aesthetically pleasing room.
Color
Nothing gives you more bang for your buck than a good color scheme. I love creating a fresh new palette for my clients because it changes the vibe of a house instantly.
But color is tricky and is completely dependent on light-the light that occurs naturally and the light we create in a space.
The most important take away here is to pick any wall color around noon hour. Noon hour gives you the truest value of any color.
I doublecheck in the morning, noon and night to see if the color is altered in a pleasing manner especially when we add artificial lighting.
It is always fun to see the new color trends each year but always trust your instincts-if you like warm colors, don't be swayed by trendy cooler tones. We react to colors in a psychological way and trends come and go.
Contrast and Counterpoint
To create a dramatic room, these elements of design are really important.
Basically, having a lot of one element in a room (remember that weigh scale) may need a jolt of something unexpected.
For example-if you have a very traditional room, add one modern element like an art deco floor lamp. Add a pop of color to a monochromatic room-your eye will immediately be drawn to that bowl of vibrant flowers.
It takes a confidence to feel that adding the "right" different piece will work but always trust your gut instinct. Sometimes things just feel good and I believe that is what makes a room work.