Elements of Design Objective 3 01 Elements of

Elements of Design Objective 3. 01

Elements of Design Space refers to the 3 dimensional area around or inside a form. It can communicate positive or negative feelings.

Large spaces can communicate feelings of openness and grandeur, but can also make a person feel small/lost/overwhelmed. Small spaces can make one feel cozy, intimate, or comfortable, but can also be crowded due to number of people or furnishings.

Types of Space

Line: most basic element of design Vertical lines are perpendicular to the ground, cause the eye to move up and down. Suggest height, strength, dignity, and stability.

Horizontal lines are parallel to the ground. They direct the eye across and convey feelings of relaxation, calmness, rest. Found in mantles, bookcases, long sofas, fabrics and wallpapers.

Curved Line is part of a circle that is natural and free flowing. These lines reflect organization, eternity and uniformity as well as softness and freedom.

Diagonal lines communicate action and excitement. Appear as stairs, lampshades, cathedral ceilings, roof lines, fabrics and wallpapers.

Form Realistic Form: communicates lifelike, traditional, and familiar feelings with objects

Abstract form: rearranges a recognizable object. The object has familiar traits, but altered. Used in contemporary settings.

Geometric Form: uses squares, rectangles, circles and other geometric figures to create form. Communicates organization, order, and planning. Square tables, round lampshades, various pillows.

Free form: random and flowing. Often found in nature (plants, stones, wood) with no sense of geometric design. This is untraditional, unfamiliar, and different from realistic form.

Using Form in Housing 1. Form follows function 2. Related forms are more agreeable than unrelated forms 3. A gradual change in form smoothly leads the eye. (see page 246 Housing Decisions for more detail)

Texture Refers to the way a surface feels or appears to feel. Tactile: how a surface actually feels to the touch. Described as smooth, rough, bumpy, grainy, porous, cool. Visual: texture that can be seen but not felt. Scenic wallpapers, fabric patterns, laminate flooring, etc.

Mass High Mass: space that is visually crowded. Too many patterns or lines. Feelings of being cluttered, too formal, heavy Low Mass: space is simple and sparse. Only the essential items are in the room. Communicates a clean and airy space

References and Resources Housing Decisions pages 241 -249 www. architecture. about. com www. artsmia. org www. everythingfurniture. com www. chateaustone. com www. countrycurtains. com www. pierone. com www. crateandbarrel. com www. domestications. com www. hgtv. com www. bhg. com Copyright © 2007, ABCD, All rights reserved