How To Use the Elements and Principles Of Design To Decorate Like An Interior Designer, Part 15

Part 15 Scale

Simply put, the element of scale in interior design refers to size. The scale of something is often directly correlated to its visual weight. When used properly it is very effective for setting the tone of a room, as well as ensuring that your room “makes sense” aesthetically.

For example it can be used to influence the level of grandeur in a room. You may have noticed that luxury homes often incorporate features that are big in scale, such as a very large chandelier. Not only does this create intense emphasis on an impressive architectural element and light source, it also sets the tone for the purpose and comfort level of a room. Chandeliers say decadence and indulgence so you know at a glance how you’ll likely function in such a room.

Conversely, let’s say your space is intimate and cozy. Maybe even in the style of a quaint vignette. In that case large scale features would overwhelm it and seem incongruous in the room. It would be best to focus on small scale furnishings and accessories that compliment that style.   

To further clarify ways to use scale let’s take a look at the room in the photo. It’s easy to discern the large scale of both the bathtub and the concrete wall behind it. You might initially think that the most important feature with regard to size is the concrete wall because it out-sizes the bathtub. However, notice how it actually serves as an excellent backdrop for the more important large scale feature which is the impressive bathtub. Without the wall framing it, it might seem like it’s just sitting in the room, awkwardly large and overbearing. The concrete wall softens that effect and transforms the bathtub into a well placed focal point. Furthermore, the medium scale, exposed brick wall that surrounds both reduces the overall visual weight and draws the eye to the left and right side of the room. The small scale accessories on the either side provide much needed detail and a place for the eye to focus more closely.

Next read Part 16 – Unity

Don’t forget to go back and start by reading Part 1