The 7 Elements of Interior Design

Hello Friends,
Happy New Year! It has definitely been a while since my last post. Today's post will be about the 7 elements of Interior Design. Those 7 elements are color, texture, patterns, space, forms, light and line. All 7 of these elements are super important to keep a balanced design that are pleasing to the eye. If one of these elements are off by being too overpowering or under-whelming it can be vital to your space's aesthetics and throw your whole design off. 

Let's talk about color first. Colors are mastered by interior designers to create an ambiance that their clients are looking to achieve. It can allow for spaces to appear larger or smaller than they actually are. Colors can define spaces and depending on what room you are designing you can either create something powerful with dramatic and deeper tones or something calming, light and airy with more natural tones. When designing on a tighter budget I always say that paint can go a long way.

Next element is texture. Texture is a fun way to add dimension to spaces. You can add textures in furniture pieces, fabrics, drapery, accent rugs, throw pillows, wall paper, and/or throw blankets. When interior designers want to add texture to a space they usually mix several fabrics and materials that are well balanced and work well together. I typically use textures for my client couples who usually have two completely different styles and find ways to marry both styles so that it works for the space but that they are also both happy with. Texture is a good way to add feeling to your spaces, reflect your personality into it.  After all, I believe a design should always tell a story of who you are and what you love. 

The following element is patterns. Patterns are very similar to texture, it also adds visual appeal to your space. In the use of patterns you can carry themes throughout your entire home if that is what you prefer or you can define one space on its own. There are several patterns available such as geometric, abstract, horizontal, vertical, stripes, prints, etc. selecting patterns can come easily for some but, not for everyone. If you find yourself needing a pattern but unsure how to select, it will depend on the style you are going to use for your design and then you can look for patterns in that category. For instance, I typically use geometric and abstract patterns in my more modern and contemporary designs. My go to patterns for a traditional style is more of the organic and floral patterns. 

The next element is space. Space is often the foundation on an interior design. It is what we have available to work with unless you have an option and luxury to change the footprint. Often the questions are what is the space currently, what do you want the space to become, what will it's functionality be, and how can we utilize what we have in the best way possible. One way to give the illusion of a space to appear taller in height is by adding objects from floor to ceiling that will capture the eye. I often use floor to ceiling drapes in spaces for my clients who have shorter ceiling heights and it makes a world of difference.

The following element is forms. Forms are the shapes of a space and the dimensions you have available to work within. While it is easier to work  with square, rectangular, and circular dimensions there will be times where a room can have an odd shape such as geometric. A good designer will be able to create something even with the oddest shaped rooms. 

The next element is light. Light is a super vital element to any space. It is the aspect that can either make or break a space's design. If not properly balanced the rest of your room's design will not radiate to its full potential. Depending on the space and its usage, lighting can and will make all the difference. Lighting sets moods, defines areas, furniture, art  pieces and it helps all other aspects of your design shine. It is one of my personal favorite elements and if left up to me I would install a chandelier even in your laundry room LOL. 

Last but, not least the final element is line. Lines are important when guiding the eye when entering a space. It can be vertical or horizontal lines that would either make the space feel longer or taller. It will depend on how you prefer your space to feel. Often designers use lines in their spaces to convey movement. Lines will not just be walls in a space, but also in furniture pieces such as tables, sofas, accent rugs, etc. I often use lines in my more rustic designs creating illusions of either a wider room or a taller ceiling.

Now that you have a bit of understanding of the 7 important elements of interior design and their usage I hope this helps you when creating your spaces. Again, these elements are all critical when designing and when used within balance can create moods, ambiance, and functionality. When used off balance can either make or break your space's design. Have fun when designing your areas!

Tip of the Month:
For my DIYers, if you have furniture pieces that you are bored with but prefer not to break the bank on another piece, simply re-paint your piece and change out the hardware. It is cost effective and can totally change your piece into something you now love.

XoXo,
Erica McMillon