2. Space
Space is the area in
which we work
It defines limits and sets
boundaries of our design
It is limited by width,
length and height
To make space seem
larger use
soft, light,
cool colors
To make space seem
smaller – use patterns or
dark, warm colors
3. Line
Line establishes
shape and form
It suggests
movement and leads
or moves the eye
around the room
Lines are either
straight or curved
Straight lines are
considered to be
more masculine
7. Curved lines add interest
and relief
Curved lines are softer, so
are considered to be more
feminine
8. Form
The shape of an object is
form (square, rectangle,
round, oval)
Forms in a room should
be harmonious
Rectangular shapes are
more pleasing to the eye
than square shapes
Rectangles are most
often the dominant
shape in a room
12. Texture
The surface of an object, its
smoothness or roughness,
is another important
decorating tool
The use of several
complementary textures
can add variety and keep
interest alive
Be careful to avoid
dramatic contrasts between
the textures
It is not a good idea to use
casual, rough burlap in the
same setting with a soft
and formal moiré
13. Texture cont.
Heavily textured, nubby,
rough surfaces absorb
more light. They are
more casual in feeling;
they seem to be darker
and they are good at
absorbing sound
Smooth and shiny
surfaces are more
formal; they appear to
be lighter and are more
reflective of light
14. Pattern
Pattern is the repetition of a
decorative motif on a surface
It is closely related to texture,
but individual elements of
pattern appear as individual
items and texture appears as an
overall tone.
Pattern provides the spice in
decorating
Scale is important in the use of
pattern
If a large print is used on a
small object the pattern will get
lost
15. Pattern cont.
You can safely use a
floral pattern with a
geometric pattern, a
stripe or check
Be careful not to create
an effect that is too busy
Use patterns that are in
proportion to each other
A large floral would be
out of proportion with a
small check
16. Color
Color is one of the most
powerful tools used in
interior design/ decorating.
Color should be studied
both psychologically and
emotionally to be
understood and used
correctly.
The amount of light also
affects color
Dim lighting reduces a
color's value and
diminishes its hue
17. Color cont.
High lighting levels can
either intensify the hue or
make the color appear
washed out
Color swatches should be
tested in their actual
location under the expected
lighting conditions before
final decisions are made
The amount of area covered
affects color
Color intensifies as the area
of color increases
It is also important to
remember that interior
colors should be chosen
inside and exterior colors
outside
18. Now that you know the
six Elements of Design ,
you can better understand
them and you can make
them work for you