The document discusses the principles of design, focusing on balance. It explains that balance is the resolution of interacting forces or weights in a visually pleasing arrangement. There are three main types of balance: symmetrical, where both sides are mirror images; asymmetrical, where visual weights are equal but elements differ; and radial, where furnishings are arranged in a circular manner. Balance in a room is always changing based on lighting, placement of objects, and other factors.

2. PRINCIPLES OF DESIGN…
The designer works with the 4 tools or elements of
design: line, form, color, and texture. But now they
must follow the “RULES” about using those tools.
The rules are called the principles of design.
There are 5 principles
of design:
BALANCE
proportion/scale
rhythm
harmony
emphasis

3. Balance


The resolution of
interacting forces,
attractions or weights.
Also known as
equilibrium.
Balance is a
psychological or visual
sense of equilibrium.
As a design principle,
balance places the parts
of a visual in an
aesthetically pleasing
arrangement.

4. Balance

Large objects and spaces appear heavier than small ones, but a
grouping of small objects can balance a large object.

5. Balance

Opaque materials appear
heavier than transparent
materials.

Bright, warm, dark-patterned
colors appear heavier than grayed,
cool, light colors.

6. Balance


Unusual and unique shapes
and objects have importance
beyond their size .
Textures and patterns hold
one’s attention longer than
smooth, plain surfaces.

7. Balance

Contrasting textures, patterns, and
colors (such as complementary
colors) have greater impact than
closer harmonies (such as
analogous).

Objects above eye level appear to
be heavier than objects placed
below eye level.

8. Balance


Brightly-lighted areas attract
more attention than dimly lit
areas.
Strong contrasts add weight.

9. Types of Balance…
Symmetrical
Formal Balance
One side of the room is the mirror image of the
other
Occurs when the visual weight of a
composition is evenly distributed around a
central vertical or horizontal axis
Gives a quiet and restful feeling
Suits classical and traditional interiors
Easiest balance to create, but not as
interesting

11. Symmetrical Balance

12. Symmetrical Balance

13. Types of Balance…
Asymmetrical
Informal Balance
Visual weights are equal, but elements are
different in size, form, color, pattern, and
spacing
Occurs when the weight of a composition
is not evenly distributed around a central
axis
Has an effect of spaciousness
More lasting appeal; interesting

15. Asymmetrical Balance

16. Asymmetrical Balance

17. Types of Balance…
Radial
Furnishings or patterns are arranged in a
circular manner
Creates a dramatic sense of motion in a
room
The right and left sides as well as the top
and bottom halves of the composition are
identical.

19. Radial Balance

20. What kind of balance do you see?
The balance in a room is
ever-changing:
When a person enters the
room, the balance
changes. The clothing
they wear and the places
they move will change the
balance.
The constant changing of
natural light and shadows
changes the balance.
Day to day living will
change the balance in a
room… the placement of a
magazine on the table,
toys left out, even fading
of carpet and furniture.

22. Assignment on Balance
1. Using catalogs or magazines, find and identify one
picture of a whole room arrangement (or an area of
a room) that illustrates symmetrical and one picture
that illustrates asymmetrical balance.
2. Use a computer or templates to title each page and
label each picture. You may mat the pictures as
desired.
3. If the picture you
Symmetrical Balance
Asymmetrical
select does not fill the
by Your
Balance
by
entire page, you may
Name
Your Name
The symmetrical
The asymmetrical balance
want to add a picture of
balance in this room
in this room gives it an
leaves it feeling formal
balancing scales or a
informal or casual appeal.
and peaceful.
picture of an individual
object that illustrates
one of the types of
balance.
Asymmetric lamp

23. Symmetrical Balance
Name: _____________
Draw and color an arrangement above to illustrate symmetrical
design. The small console must have 5 drawers. Include 1 lamp of
any kind, 2 framed pictures of any kind, and one floor rug.

24. Asymmetrical Balance Name: _____________
Draw and color an arrangement above to illustrate asymmetrical
design. The small console must have 5 drawers. Include 1 lamp of
any kind, 2 framed pictures of any kind, and one floor rug.