Rhythm and hues
Irene Scott Thornton
By Irene Scott Thornton
Friday, September 30, 2005
Have your ever wondered why pictures in magazines make
ordinary items on tables and shelves look so good? The answer lies beyond
merely the talents of the professional photographer. It has to do with basic
design principles that the professional interior designer has applied to the
arrangement. Rhythm, balance, harmony and hues are design principles that
apply to each space planning project, large or small. So here is information
you can use, that will allow you to understand what makes the difference
between the “thrown together” and “pulled together” look.
Rhythm or flow is achieved by drawing the eye from one
object to the next while allowing each to stand out from the others. The eye
will pass over an entire collection of like items such as a shelf full of
books However, when the books are spread amoung displayed objects, and
anchored by an interesting bookend, or laid flat into a short stack with an
object resting on top, you have created rhythm. Another way to create rhythm
is to use varying heights of the same type of object, such as a grouping of
candlesticks, or vases. Your eyes will dance with the attention drawn to
everything being displayed.
Balance provides the equilibrium that causes us to feel
comfortable. Each individual has their own personal preference of balance;
either symmetrical balance, which creates a mirror image by using exactly the
same objects from the center to the ends; or asymmetrical balance where the
objects on opposite sides from the center are different. An example of
symmetrical balance is where two identical lamps are placed centered in front
of a large mirror and floral centerpiece. Traditional design styles use
symmetrical balance, while casual and contemporary styles prefer asymmetrical
balance.
Harmony is created by using items that are compatible in
some way. This is achieved through repetition of a common hue, pattern, shape
or style to continue a theme. Pick up the same shade of color in several of
the items. Incorporate the same shape on others, such as serpentine or
circular. Utilize several items from your favorite collectibles.
If you apply these design principles and yet don’t seem
to get the look you want the first time, try again a few days later. Just like
when working a jigsaw puzzle, sometimes you have to walk away form it for a
while, so that when you return you are able to see it with a new perspective.
You will be pleasantly surprised at how well your possessions will look when
pulled together with rhythm and hues.
Irene Scott Thornton is a professional Interior Designer
and Project Manager with over twenty years experience. You may contact her at
Island Interiors, 949-2543.
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