Proportion

1. Proportion • Proportion – The relationship of objects or parts of objects to one another and to the design as a whole. • Interior Design Proportion • The most effective proportion is a ratio of 2 to 3. • Proportion in Architecture • Recognizing Good Proportion • Uneven proportions are more pleasing than even ones, and rectangles are more desirable than squares.

2. Scale • Scale – the proportion of an object or a space to human beings and to other objects or spaces in a design. • Symmetrical Balance – the arrangement of forms on one side of an imaginary central line is the mirror image of the forms on the opposite side. • Asymmetrical Balance – elements on either side of an imaginary central line are unmatched but appear to be in balance.

3. Rhythm • Rhythm – a principle that creates an effect by using certain colors, lines, forms, or textures in a regular pattern. • Repetition – the act of repeating • Radiation – when lines radiate, or move outward, from a central point. • Gradation – a gradual increasing or decreasing of color, size, or pattern.

4. Emphasis • Emphasis is a special forcefulness of expression that lends importance to an item that is singled out. • The item or feature should be worthy of being singled out for attention. • It should dominate the room but not overpower the rest of the room design. • No other item or feature should compete for attention with the one singled out.

5. Unity and Variety • Unity – when all the parts of a design are related by one idea • Unity = Harmony • Variety occurs when different styles and materials are combined. • Variety can add interest or confusion.