Principles of design There are four principles of design: balance, emphasis, proportion and rhythm.
Balance
Balance is created when the elements of design (colours, patterns and textures) and the items of furniture in a room work well together and in harmony. For example, symmetrical balance occurs when one object is a mirror image of another in terms of size/shape, colour, pattern or texture.
Symmetrical balance Emphasis
Emphasis involves drawing attention to a particular object or feature, e.g. a feature wall in a room, by using strong/contrasting colours, pattern, texture, shape or lighting. Emphasis adds interest and variety to a room, giving it a focal point.
Proportion
Proportion is achieved when the pieces of furniture in a room relate to one another in size and relate to the size of the room they are in, e.g. the size of a sofa in a sitting room
Rhythm
Rhythm is used to link various objects in a room to create a harmonious, unified look. It can be achieved by repeating colours, patterns or textures.
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Explain three principles of design and give an example of the application of each in interior design. (18) HL
