9. Proportion Proportion: The relationship in size of objects or parts of objects to one another and to the design as a whole. 1/2 1/3 1/3 The golden mean is the division of a line anyplace between one-half and one-third of its total length. These curtains are tied back at the golden mean for this window.
10. Scale Scale: The proportion of an object or space to human beings and to other objects or spaces in a design. Human scale should be taken into account when selecting furnishing for home and non-residential environments that children use frequently.
11. Balance Symmetrical Balance: A design effect in which the arrangement of forms on one side of an imaginary central line is the mirror image of the arrangement of forms on the opposite side. The two mirrored windows are accentuated by the pair of identical night-stands, equipped with matching accessories.
12. Balance Asymmetrical Balance: A design effect in which elements on either side of an imaginary central line are unmatched but appear to be in balance. The objects on either side of the lamp balance the top of this small chest.
13. Rhythm Rhythm: The design principle that suggests connected movement between different parts of a design by using colors, lines, forms, or textures; also referred to as continuity. The repeating lines in the wallboard, and even the starfish, develop a sense of rhythm in this colorful studio.
14. Emphasis Emphasis: In design, the center of interest or focal point that first catches the viewer’s attention. In most settings a large floral arrangement is a simple way to create a focal point.
15. Unity and Variety Unity: A principle of design that occurs when all the parts of a design are related by one idea. Eclectic: A style of decorating that involves mixing furnishing of different styles and possibly from different periods. A quart of paint transformed these four mismatched chairs into a harmonious grouping.