PRINCIPLES OF DESIGN The designer works with the

PRINCIPLES OF DESIGN… The designer works with the 4 tools or elements of design: line, form, color, and texture. But now they must follow the “RULES” about using those tools. The rules are called the principles of design. There are 5 principles of design: BALANCE proportion/scale rhythm harmony emphasis

Balance n n The resolution of interacting forces, attractions or weights. Also known as equilibrium. Balance is a psychological or visual sense of equilibrium. As a design principle, balance places the parts of a visual in an aesthetically pleasing arrangement.

Balance n Large objects and spaces appear heavier than small ones, but a grouping of small objects can balance a large object.

Balance n Opaque materials appear heavier than transparent materials. n Bright, warm, dark-patterned colors appear heavier than grayed, cool, light colors.

Balance n n Unusual and unique shapes and objects have importance beyond their size. Textures and patterns hold one’s attention longer than smooth, plain surfaces.

Balance n Contrasting textures, patterns, and colors (such as complementary colors) have greater impact than closer harmonies (such as analogous). n Objects above eye level appear to be heavier than objects placed below eye level.

Balance n n Brightly-lighted areas attract more attention than dimly lit areas. Strong contrasts add weight.

Types of Balance… Symmetrical Formal Balance One side of the room is the mirror image of the other Occurs when the visual weight of a composition is evenly distributed around a central vertical or horizontal axis Gives a quiet and restful feeling Suits classical and traditional interiors Easiest balance to create, but not as interesting

Symmetrical Balance

Symmetrical Balance

Types of Balance… Asymmetrical Informal Balance Visual weights are equal, but elements are different in size, form, color, pattern, and spacing Occurs when the weight of a composition is not evenly distributed around a central axis Has an effect of spaciousness More lasting appeal; interesting

Asymmetrical Balance

Asymmetrical Balance

Types of Balance… Radial Furnishings or patterns are arranged in a circular manner Creates a dramatic sense of motion in a room The right and left sides as well as the top and bottom halves of the composition are identical.

Radial Balance

What kind of balance do you see? The balance in a room is ever-changing: When a person enters the room, the balance changes. The clothing they wear and the places they move will change the balance. The constant changing of natural light and shadows changes the balance. Day to day living will change the balance in a room… the placement of a magazine on the table, toys left out, even fading of carpet and furniture.

Assignment on Balance 1. Using catalogs or magazines, find and identify one picture of a whole room arrangement (or an area of a room) that illustrates symmetrical and one picture that illustrates asymmetrical balance. 2. Use a computer or templates to title each page and label each picture. You may mat the pictures as desired. 3. If the picture you Symmetrical Balance Asymmetrical Balance select does not fill the by Your Name entire page, you may The symmetrical The asymmetrical balance want to add a picture of balance in this room gives it an leaves it feeling formal balancing scales or a informal or casual appeal. and peaceful. picture of an individual object that illustrates one of the types of balance. Asymmetric lamp

Symmetrical Balance Name: _______ Draw and color an arrangement above to illustrate symmetrical design. The small console must have 5 drawers. Include 1 lamp of any kind, 2 framed pictures of any kind, and one floor rug.

Asymmetrical Balance Name: _______ Draw and color an arrangement above to illustrate asymmetrical design. The small console must have 5 drawers. Include 1 lamp of any kind, 2 framed pictures of any kind, and one floor rug.