The importance of proportion and balance in interior design

 
In order to shape the experience of an interior space, balance and proportion are of utmost importance. Think of the house as a series of linked spaces that include rooms, halls and stairways. Now, in order to create a sense of balance and proportion, it is not necessary that all these spaces be decorated to be exactly the same, but instead, they should work together to strengthen the whole composition. This introduces us to the concept of visual weight. The visual ‘weight’ of each decorative element should be equally distributed in each area – or space considered for decoration.

In order to create this kind of effect; there are three different styles of balance that can be used:
Symmetrical balance
Symmetrical balance used to be a key technique used in most of the traditionally decorated homes. In this type of design, a vertical axis is drawn (virtually) and design elements are placed (or repeated) on both sides of the axis – preferably in the same positions. Human body is symmetric too, and so are many things in nature – this is exactly why a symmetrical balance in a design makes us feel more comfortable.

Asymmetrical balance
Asymmetrical balance is used in most of the modern home designs that are seen today. This kind of balance is achieved with the help of dissimilar objects that have equal visual weight that are strategically arranged across the room. Asymmetrical balance gives a more casual look – but is kind of difficult to achieve. However, it is important to note that asymmetry suggests movement – your eyes quickly move from one object to another and the overall impact is that the room looks livelier!

Radial balance
Radial symmetry suggests that all the objects or design elements are placed around a centre point. A spiral movement of the eye from one design element to another in induced by this kind of design. This type of design is not very often used in interior design, but is worth mentioning here. If used appropriately though, it can help create interesting designs for interiors too.

All about proportions
Proportions are important to bring about a visual harmony in a particular design space. Proportions are essentially the ratio of one design element as compared to another or as compared to the whole.

In order to create an aesthetic appeal, all the decorative elements must be visually balanced and must be in proportion as well. Once you have all this covered, it is easier to place all the other elements in the design space. By paying attention to these minute details you can create truly visually appealing interior designs.

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