PRINCIPLES OF DESIGN {BALANCE}

I believe that everything we do in life, requires balance. From balancing our diets, the amount of time we work and sleep, and even in sports, all that we do requires balance to keep things in control. This same way of thinking applies to interior design as well. Bringing symmetry in to your home will bring you a sense of peace and calmness.

Balance: A state of equilibrium achieved by arranging components symmetrically, asymmetrically, or radically.  

Symmetrical Balance 

Creates a mirror image by the placement of items and furniture that are exactly the same on both sides of a central point. A great central point for example would be a fireplace, matching bookcases, chairs and accessories. The easiest way to determine the symmetry in a room is by drawing an imaginary line through the center and if both sides are mirroring each other, then it is symmetrical.

 Use your architecture as the axis on which to create balance and symmetry. 

 If your room lacks any architectural elements, you can use as your axis for furniture placement from a window.

Asymmetrical Balance

Asymmetrical balance is difficult to achieve. It requires finding objects that are compatible yet varied enough to be interesting together. There really is no defining point of what is right and what is wrong for asymmetrical balance; therefore, you must trust your instinct on what feels "right". 

The furniture and objects in the rooms above work well together because one is not over-powering another.

Radial Balance 

Radial balance is the state of equilibrium that is based on the circle. It can be seen as chairs surrounding a round table or a concentric circles in a chandelier or lighting fixture, or in circular furniture arrangements.

The radial symmetry is very obvious in the photo above. -From the circle pattern in the carpet to the curved mirroring sofas. 

I hope that after reading this, you will be able to apply this to your own home, and experience the peace that a well balanced room can bring.

Sources

Nielson, Karla J., and David A. Taylor. Interiors: An Introduction. Boston: McGraw-Hill, 2002. Print.