Spatial Design Awareness

Today, we are going to discuss spatial design, which refers to an object’s relation to space. If your memory suits, you may be able to remember the way an existing room is laid out and how much space is taken up by design elements. Successful interior designers and architects have this quality down pat and use this technique every day! We understand that you may not be a designer or architect by trade, but the use of the word “spatial” will come up time and time again while designing, and your understanding of it helps with your grasp of interior design.

Spatial awareness is to understand the dimensions of a room, inside or outside. The size of the room will determine the size of the furniture used and where it is placed. A large room, 17 x 20, is defined by its function and the function of a large room is what you put in it. In essence, you will want to buy furnishings according to the scale of the room. You can play with patterns and a lot of texture in a large room. Smaller rooms will require much more thought and consideration. Below we have listed some tips and tricks for maximizing rooms that are smaller in size: 

• Use a single, preferred color and use the variations and shades from this color throughout the space. A lot of colors throughout a space can weigh down the overall design. Building off of one color in a variety of shades can help create definition without being too demanding. 
• Keep in mind; you will want to add more texture than patterns in a smaller room. Multiple patterns can feel overwhelming to the eyes, whereas texture still creates depth and definition without being overbearing. 
• Invest in wall sconce light fixtures that fit close to the ceiling. In smaller rooms, you do not necessarily want to hang lights from the ceiling. This concept will interfere with the spatial flow of your design. 
• Make sure that you use more than one floor lamp and direct the light towards the ceiling for a greater sense of height. Visually, this will help open up your space. 
• Use a lighter paint color on the ceiling with a darker shade for the walls. This is another visual trick for creating more “space” in a small room. 
• If you are using draperies, hang them from the ceiling and let them go all the way to the floor. If you want to maximize the space, you can hang blinds.
• For seating arrangements, use only one medium-sized sofa with a couple of side accent chairs. This will help create a conversational flow without creating bulky barriers.
• Always hang mirrors to reflect artificial and natural light from outside. 
• For artwork, use vertical and horizontal pictures that are on the slim side. This will help to make the wall look longer than it actually is on paper.

Which spatial design tip was your favorite? Do you lend yourself more towards one concept or idea? In the comment section below, we would love to hear your thoughts. Thanks for reading and be sure to check back weekly at From The Floors Up for more expert tips and tricks.