Whether you're ready to add your style to a new home or just looking to refresh the look and feel of your current home, our design team is here to help. We've developed five fundamentals of style to use as guideposts for any design project. In this post, we'll focus on balance and how to evenly distribute elements for a more polished look.
Balance refers to the equal distribution of visual weight in a room and it is of utmost importance for the design of all interior spaces. It provides the basic flow of the room while designing and it can be achieved by using, symmetrical, asymmetrical and radial settings. Here are a few tips.
Does something just feel "off"? Try removing elements.
When things are off balance, one side feels “heavy” or more crowded than the other—like furniture that’s weighing down half the room while the other half is sparse. Take something out of a room to create better balance whether it’s a color that’s throwing things off or an overstuffed chair that's crowding a corner.
Utilize symmetrical balance.
This kind of balance is usually found in traditional interiors. Symmetrical balance is characterized by the same object being repeated in the same position of either side of the central axis. It can use one element as a focal point or central axis and use mirroring elements on either side.
Experiment with assymetry.
Asymmetrical balance is a result of using different objects whose visual attraction is equal. With asymmetrical balance, designers can achieve visually stunning and breathtaking looks by using different textures, shapes, colors and lines. When used well, asymmetrical balance adds to the element of surprise in interiors by creating something visually unexpected.
Color also plays an important role.
Equalizing color distribution is another balancing tool. For instance, if you have black near the floor, pull that color higher with a black-framed mirror, dark photo mat, or a deep-tone branch. This creates a pleasing visual balance with minimal effort.
Add some drama with radial elements.
Radial balance works best when similar elements are used around, away from or towards a focal point. Typically used in office spaces and hotels, radial balance requires large spaces to create the right impact. When utilized properly, radial balance can result in a design that is structured, playful and visually arresting.
