Interior design is an important part of any living space. It includes the art and science of enhancing the interior of an area to create a more aesthetically pleasing, functional, and overall pleasant environment for all who use it. The interior design process is both critical for creating an ideal atmosphere, as well as a way of expressing yourself, making the space truly your own. Whether you’re looking to completely overhaul your space, or simply refresh the look with a few key touches, understanding some of the fundamental concepts of interior design is key to creating a pleasant environment in which to live.
Colour: Using the Colour Wheel to Create Balance and Flow
One of the most important concepts when it comes to interior design is understanding colour. The colour wheel is a helpful tool in understanding how different hues work together to create balanced and harmonious looks in any interior space. The wheel consists of 12 basic hues, each of which can be synthesized into the three primary colours (yellow, blue and red), the three secondary colours (each pair of complimentary primary colours mixed together) and the tertiary colours (a mix of both a primary and secondary colour). As a broad rule, warm colours (ie. yellows, oranges and reds) sit together on the wheel and are inviting and stimulating, while cool colours (blues, purples, greens) are calming and relaxing. Using the wheel, colour can easily be arranged to create balance and flow from one room to the next.
Where to Use Colour
When utilizing colour in interior design, the best place to start is walls and accents. Lighter hues and neutral tones are best for walls since they bring out the other colours used in accent pieces such as furniture, artwork and other decorative objects. Creating a focal point with bolder and brighter shades is also a great way to draw attention to an area and make an otherwise dull space more interesting. Colours can also be used to bring out the best features of a room, such as high ceilings, large windows, and attractive furnishings. No matter what the goal, whether it’s to create a cozy sanctuary or to enliven a dull area, using colour in creative ways can be the perfect way to achieve it.
Texture: Bringing Comfort and Sheen to Spaces
Texture is another fundamental concept in interior design. Adding texture to an interior space is a great way to bring a sense of comfort and warmth and to add an extra layer of interest and dimension. Think about the texture of a favourite piece of clothing, or the texture of an old armchair – these details all contribute to the overall design of the space and the feeling of coziness inside it.
Types of Textures
Some of the common types of textures used in interior design are fabrics, wood, stone and metal. Fabrics such as wool, velvet and fur can bring a soft, cozy feel to a space, while wood can inject warmth and depth. Stone and metal have a more modern, industrial feel, while also bringing a sense of luxury and sometimes, a hint of glamour.
Depending on what look you’re trying to achieve, certain textures can be used to create different moods and bring certain vibes to a room. For example, fur and velvet evoke a sense of comfort and luxury, while wood and stone introduce more earthy and rustic elements. Texture can also be used to create types of contrast – by pairing rough and smooth textures, or heavy and light textures, an interesting juxtaposition can be created in any space.
Lighting: Bringing In Light and Creating Atmospheres
Lighting is essential in any space and is a crucial component to setting the mood, creating atmosphere and adjusting the brightness level within a room. Natural light from windows and doors is the most ideal form of lighting, as it creates a warm and inviting ambiance with little effort. Artificial lighting, such as from lamps, sconces, and overhead fixtures, is also important for creating atmosphere and establishing moods. Table and floor lamps are great for living spaces where atmosphere and ambiance need to be created, while wall sconces provide decorative lighting for corridors and hallways.
Types of Lighting
There are numerous types of lighting fixtures available and different types are used for different purposes. Accent lighting, for example, is used to focus on a particular area or object, while task lighting is used to help perform specific activities, such as cooking. Ambient lighting provides a general, broad light, while decorative lighting is used to create a certain look or style. Other lighting fixtures such as chandeliers are used to introduce sophistication and elegance to a space.
No matter what type of lighting you choose, the key is to establish balance, commensurate with the area in which you’re lighting. For example, a brightly lit dining room should be balanced with a softer lit living room. Contrasting elements can also be used in a space to create an interesting, dynamic atmosphere.
Furniture: Using the Right Pieces to Combine Function and Form
The furniture you choose can determine the overall feel and aesthetic of any space, so it’s important to select pieces that are both functional and stylish. When it comes to furniture, scale, proportion and balance are also very important considerations. Select pieces that are too bulky or are too small can make a room feel imbalanced, so it’s always best to take measurements and make sure the furniture you’re selecting will fit comfortably within the space.
Selecting pieces that combine form and function is also key. For example, opt for a sofa bed if you need to accommodate guests but don’t have the space for a spare bedroom. A sectional couch is also a great way to maximize seating in a smaller space. Coffee, console and side tables can add waist-level storage and convenient, decorative surfaces. Lastly, accent pieces such as bookshelves, armoires, and other pieces that combine form and function are always a great way to add personality and character to a space.
Accessorizing: Adding The Finishing Touches
Accessorizing a room is the ideal way to add the perfect finishing touches and make your individual style known. From books and plants to art and photo displays, accessories are a key way to inject personal flair and make your interior design unique. To make a space feel lived-in and cozy, try adding rugs, throws, cushions and blankets that add texture to the space. Other knick-knacks, such as wall-mounted lamps, sconces and clocks, can add interesting features and can vary in style from modern to vintage. Mirrors are also a great way to bring dimension and natural light into a room, as well as add a feeling of openness and spaciousness.
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Interior design is an important aspect of any living space, as it encompasses the art and science of creating aesthetically pleasing, functional, and pleasant environments. To achieve this, understanding some of the key concepts of interior design is essential, including understanding how to use colour, texture and lighting, selecting the right furniture and how to accessorize. By understanding how to use these key concepts, one will be able to create a uniquely personalised and aesthetically pleasing interior design that will make any space truly their own.
