Design Notebook

An example of an over-unified interior

The repeated pattern seen on the walls, bed, curtains, and even furniture in this room are overwhelming and create a lack of variety.

An example of furniture used to unify an interior

This purple couch ties the room together by complementing the walls painted a lighter shade of purple while also directly contrasting the colors of the curtains and pillows, creating variety.

Contrast

An example of variety used in an interior to create successful contrast

This interior involves several different colors, patterns, and textures, all of which mix together to create a sense of variety and contrast.

Horizontal lines dominating

The horizontal lines that dominate the walls of this interior create an informal sense of relaxation.

Vertical lines dominating

This space makes use of vertical lines in the wooden panels on the wall and in the shelves on the wall; this brings a sense of dignity and formality to the space.

Diagonal lines dominating

The diagonal lines seen on the bar and on the floor create a sense of movement and action in this space.

Curved lines dominating

Curved lines can be seen throughout this interior in its doorway arches, mirrors, and even furniture; this allows for an exciting and stimulating experience for those who enter.

Form

An example of sacrificing function/comfort for the sake of form

Although this chair is unique and pleasing to the eye, it would not be very practical to actually sit in.

Balance

Symmetrical balance

This image depicts a room with symmetrical balance, meaning everything mirrors each other. This arrangement achieves a restful, formal tone.

Balance

Asymmetrical balance

The interior in this image is not a mirror image, containing varying elements on each side of the axis. This asymmetrical balance sparks a sense of curiosity in the viewer and creates an informal tone.

Scale

An example of furniture scaled up for an interior

The furniture chosen for this bedroom makes this large room feel less intimidating through the usage of tall curtains, a large rug that leaves less open floor space, and furniture that covers much of the floor.

Scale

An example of furniture scaled down in an interior

This small living area feels larger due to the usage of a glass countertop and furniture that leaves space between it and the floor, leaving the majority of the floor surface exposed.

Rhythm

An example of simple repetition used to create rhythm

The repeated usage of wooden materials seen in the furniture, light fixtures, walls, and ceilings creates rhythm through repetition.

Rhythm

An example of transition used to create rhythm

The curved shape of the sofa in this image creates rhythm through transition, leading your eyes to follow its form smoothly.

Rhythm

An example of progression/gradation to create rhythm

Progression is exhibited through the steadily increasing size of the side table in this image.

Emphasis

An example of an obvious focal point in an interior

The main focal point of this interior is the large piece of artwork on the central wall just above the fireplace, which can be considered an additional focal point in this space.

Texture

An example of a rough texture used to increase the apparent volume of a piece of furniture

Although these chairs are a regular size, they appear larger due to their rough wicker textures.

Texture

An interesting example of smooth texture used well in a space

This kitchen contains several smooth textures such as the marble backsplash, wooden cabinets and island, and glossy countertops, all of which reflect light and grab the attention of the viewer.

Pattern

Natural

The pattern on this chair is a realistic depictions of flowers as they are found in nature.

Pattern

Conventionalized

This pillow contains an unrealistic and exaggerated depiction of various flowers, emphasizing the basic qualities of their appearance.

Pattern

Abstract

This chair displays an abstract pattern, meaning that it does not seem to resemble any specific object but instead appears to be a combination of several elements.

Geometric Pattern

A geometric pattern can be seen on the wall in this image, using a repeated composition of hexagons to create a sense of rhythm in this interior.

Color

Advancing color used on walls

The walls of this bedroom are painted yellow, an advancing color, which creates the effect of a smaller space.

Color

Receding color used on walls

Receding color is displayed in the light blue walls of this space, creating the feel of a larger space

Color

Advancing color used on piece of furniture

Orange, an advancing color, is used on this sofa to make it appear larger and closer than it is in reality.

Receding color used on a piece of furniture

The receding color green is used on the sofa in this living area to reduce the apparent size of this piece of furniture, making it appear to take up less space in the room.

Monochromatic color scheme in a room setting

This interior is made almost entirely of the color pink, bringing a restful, calming feel to the space.

Color

Analogous color scheme in a room setting

This space utilizes a lot of blue and green. Since these colors are directly next to each other on the color wheel, this combination creates a unified interior.

Color

Complementary color scheme in a room setting

The color orange is opposite blue/green on the color wheel, so this interior creates a sense of contrast through direct compliment.

Color used in a space to alter feelings or behavior

This image was taken in the day room of a rehabilitation hospital. The blues utilized in this space are meant to produce a calming effect on patients.