7 elements of interior design
Stuck in a home décor rut? Read through these seven elements and principles of interior design to gather creative inspiration. You might be surprised at how much you can learn by going back to the basics.
What are the 7 basic elements of interior design?
Learning about the design elements that go into your favorite styles will help you master decorating.
The seven key elements of interior design include:
Form
Light
Color
Line
Texture
Pattern
Space
Form
Shape, a different term for describing form, expressing the contours of any furniture, artwork, or other 3-D object you could imagine. Sculpture, furniture, and even rooms can take on two types of forms: geometric forms (edges like triangles and squares, and sharp man-made lines and edges) organic forms (which are natural and irregular, with curvy or abstract shapes).
Light
The power of light has a great effect to our perception. Quality lighting is important to any space, whether its sources are man-made, natural or a combination of both. Think about the color of the light, the light intensity, and whether the light should be dimmable when choosing lighting for your room. Cool blue or warm yellow color, bright for cooking, or soft for reading, these are the factors you should keep in mind when choosing lighting.
Color
It can influence the entire mood and feeling of a space – therefore color is more than just an aesthetic choice. For example, most people think of blues and greens are usually perceived as “tranquil” or “soothing” while red is considered as a “passionate” or “intense” hue, and yellow is often associated with words like “happy” and “optimistic.” Take into consideration not only your visual preferences, but also, the attitude or energy you’re trying to cultivate when deciding on a color scheme for your room.
Line
Line, a perimeter around a shape or form. Example, if you were to draw any object in the room, you would presumably start with its outline.
Lines can be “vertical” (up-and-down), “horizontal” (side-to-side), or “dynamic” (lines that express motion, like zigzags or curlicues). Horizontal lines create a feeling of security while vertical lines are expressive and bold, according to design experts. Dynamic lines following their own set of rules, can add a fun, exciting touch to any space when used strategically.
Texture
Line, a perimeter around a shape or form. Example, if you were to draw any object in the room, you would presumably start with its outline.
Lines can be “vertical” (up-and-down), “horizontal” (side-to-side), or “dynamic” (lines that express motion, like zigzags or curlicues). Horizontal lines create a feeling of security while vertical lines are expressive and bold, according to design experts. Dynamic lines following their own set of rules, can add a fun, exciting touch to any space when used strategically.
Pattern
Intentional repetition of forms, lines, or other design elements creates a pattern. Patterns usually pop up on fabrics or wallpaper, but can appear anywhere in the home, even in the use of light or other design elements. Even though patterns can add motion and space to a space, too many clashing patterns can start to look chaotic. Tread lightly when choosing your favorite prints.
Space
Finally, space is at the heart of every design decision. There are two basic types of space to consider: 2-D space (which accounts for the width and length of a room), and 3-D space (which covers height). 2-D space is important when thinking of rugs or carpets — but you’ll need to think about 3-D space before adding new furniture or shelving. It’s also important to leave enough empty or “negative” space to allow for fluid, easy navigation (and break the room up visually).
Let form, light, color, line, texture, pattern, and space be your guide through the world of interior design.