Whether you have intentionally unread your tenth Covid-update “Email of the Day,” or have forgone a shower and continued to dress only the upper torso of your body, one element you should refuse neglect is: balance.
We live in a world that seeks balance through discussions and opportunities within our society and workplace. At times, we have succeeded (i.e. all hail the “Momboss" or "Mompreneur") and also failed. We see individuals swayed or conforming to the imbalanced routines and behaviors around us, especially during pandemic times. However, one area where we have complete control is the balance within our home. Yes, figuratively, but physical balance in interior design lends a greater purpose as we discuss the principles of balance, weight, color and form.
Balance
Symmetry is not just for the overly organized and structured mother, whom we subconsciously aspire to be; it can be a simple balance of elements, form, color and texture.
Symmetrical Balance refers to the arrangement of objects that seem to have an imaginary mirror placed along a central axis, presenting each half as a mirror image of the other. The subtle positioning of artwork, organic elements, and evenly placed dining chairs creates simplicity while leaving function to perform at its best.
Asymmetrical Balance may occur when the visual arrangements of weights are neither identical mirror images nor equivalent images, but they tend to stabilize one another.
Radial Balance is similar to symmetrical balance but has a central point, or core, from which elements extend outward, or radiate.
Color
Color is all around us. It is subjective, yet it defines a mood or even action. We can be motivated by the colors within our environment and the actions mirroring that feeling can be effective.
GREEN is the color of growth and health. It represents balance, stability and signifies the environment, which provides a restful, serene and secure feeling.
BLUE is the color of trust. It instills confidence and inspires feelings of loyalty.
BROWN signifies the earth, as it is simple and natural. Stability and a solid foundation is the message that emanates from the color brown.
WHITE is associated with goodness and purity. White and light neutral tones are known to be safe, yet also provide the perfect partnership for contrast.
Form + Weight
Although “form” is also used synonymously with “shape,” there are distinctions. When we think of shape, we often think of the outline of an object, such as the human form or a piece of furniture. However, form can also exhibit implied or apparent weight; a box painted flat black will seem to most people to weigh more than a clear plastic box. A colorful and dark piece of furniture placed in an interior will have more apparent weight or dominance than a chair of similar scale that is covered with a light-colored fabric within a light-colored environment.
It is true that we often find designs that seem to violate the above principles but still present a pleasing or strong result. Experienced interior designers understand the principles of design and balance, yet are capable of going beyond the basic rules, while still creating successful interiors. With rules intermixing, a designer must never forget that the ultimate challenge is to blend function and balance and let beauty follow.