Decorating Principles
Fundamental design concepts like balance, scale, proportion, and arrangement techniques.
40 terms in this category
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B
C
Cohesion
The unity and consistency in design that ties different elements together into a harmonious whole.
Contrast
The juxtaposition of different elements like colors, textures, or styles to create visual interest.
Conversation Area
A furniture grouping arranged to facilitate face-to-face interaction, typically with seating positioned 4-10 feet apart.
Crystallographic Balance
An overall pattern with no clear focal point where elements are distributed evenly across the entire surface, creating visual texture.
F
Flow
The visual and physical movement through a space, affecting how rooms connect and function together.
Focal Point
The dominant visual element in a room that draws the eye and anchors the design, such as a fireplace or artwork.
Furniture Arrangement
The strategic placement of furniture to optimize function, flow, and visual appeal within a space.
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M
P
R
Radial Balance
A type of balance where elements radiate from a central point, like spokes on a wheel, creating dynamic circular compositions.
Radiation
The visual effect created when lines or elements emanate from a central point, drawing attention and creating energy.
Repetition
The deliberate reuse of design elements throughout a space to create cohesion, rhythm, and visual continuity.
Rhythm
Visual flow created through repetition of colors, shapes, patterns, or textures that moves the eye around a room.
Rule of Odds
A design principle stating that odd-numbered groupings of objects are more visually appealing and dynamic than even-numbered arrangements.
Rule of Thirds
A design principle suggesting dividing space into thirds for more dynamic, visually interesting arrangements.
S
Scale
The size of objects in relation to the room and other objects, crucial for creating harmonious spaces.
Sight Lines
The natural paths the eye travels when entering or moving through a space, influenced by furniture placement and architecture.
Subordination
The intentional de-emphasis of certain elements to support the dominant features and prevent visual competition.
Symmetry
A design principle where elements are mirrored on either side of a central axis, creating formal balance.
V
Variety
The incorporation of diverse elements to prevent monotony while maintaining overall unity in a design scheme.
Vignette
A carefully arranged grouping of decorative objects that tells a story or creates a pleasing composition.
Visual Balance
The distribution of visual weight in a room to create equilibrium, either symmetrical or asymmetrical.
Visual Hierarchy
The arrangement of elements in order of importance, guiding viewers' eyes through a space in a deliberate sequence.
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