M2: Balance

When a decorator plans and designs various spaces he / she needs to have a few basic principles to bear in mind.

Balance is the relationship of all items within a group of items and how they are distributed around a central point.

If the room has a focal point such as a fireplace, the line would cut that fireplace in half, i.e. half the fireplace will be in one half of the room and the other half would be on the opposite side of the line.

Balance can also be established by looking at colour and texture and how this is distributed within a space.

This refers to the even placement of objects on either side of the imaginary line in order to achieve a mirror image.

In order to achieve this effect a decorator would make sure all the items in the room are evenly distributed on either side of the imaginary line in the center of the room.

Here objects are arranged on either side of an imaginary line but are not identical, but have visual weights that are equivalent.

This type of balance is more casual and is more lasting in appeal as it provokes thought and curiosity.

It may lend formality, depending on the arrangement, or it could achieve the opposite effect resulting in a casual feeling.

The important thing to remember when using radial balance is that the visual weight of the items must be evenly distributed around the focal point, even if the furniture is mismatched.

Radial balance can also be used to create an intimate space within a large room such as a hotel lobby.

Radial balance can also be used to create an intimate space within a large room such as a hotel lobby.

This is the rhythmic movement of the eye from one object to another and is based on the repetition of elements in space and time.

Alternation - this is achieved by alternating shapes, sizes or motifs.

Alternation using Stripes

Progression- this is the gradual change in size, colour, line or shape with a continuous movement of the eye, usually in one direction.