Lines are one of the most essential elements of design. Why? They are the starting place and provide a layout for the designer’s artistic dream. Lines create a sense of direction and order, especially if it is consistent. So, what are the different types of lines in interior design? Let’s take a look!

Horizontal Lines

Horizontal lines suggest harmony and give you a stabilizing effect. When horizontal lines are used architectural designs such as moldings, they can provide a smooth room-to-room transition. They can also make a space appear to wider and larger. However, too many horizontal lines can be monotonous and lack visual interest.

Vertical Lines

Vertical lines cause the eye to drift upward. Therefore, windows and sometimes the whole room can appear to be much taller. Architects and designers utilize vertical lines to evoke a sense of dignity and strength. Vertical lines are best suited for formal living rooms, dining areas, and entryways.

Zigzag Lines

Zigzag lines are lively, and they create rhythm in the interior. They consist of short and diagonal lines that form an irregular pattern. Zigzag lines can stand alone or be incorporated in sets. Angular zigzag lines bring energy to a room while using too many can make the design more agitated.

Curved Lines

Curved lines add softness and balance to a room. They can even add a human quality to the interior. A series of curved lines suggest graceful movement or rhythm. Using too many curved lines in a design can seem over-decorative and overpowering.

While too many lines can feel overwhelming, you can use different types of lines within the same design to create an intriguing look. For instance, in the image above, the designer mixed plaid and stripes within the same design for a beautiful finish.

Accents can really add an aesthetic appeal to your home. Typically, an accent color, wall, or material is used in a space to help develop character or enhance a theme.  Conventionally, concrete was used in only unfinished parts of the home such as basements and garages. Now, however, it is being appreciated for the character that it can add to a room. Whether polished or rigid, concrete is being incorporated in more and more spaces throughout homes. Here are several ways homeowners have been facilitating this element to give a space a strong, bold accent:

Flooring

Concrete flooring used to be affiliated with unfinished areas of the home. Now polished concrete flooring is used in many commercial designs to help capture an urban, industrial, or even brutalism design. It does not need to feel unfinished any more but can actually be used for a low-maintenance and extremely durable flooring solution.

Countertops

Concrete is another great countertop solution. More durable than granite, concrete is perfect to add character to your space. Remember though; if not treated with epoxy or sealant, concrete can absorb liquids and stain.

Walls

Some homes are going as far as adding concrete walls into their blueprints to add a great accent wall in some spaces. Capture the feel of an urban oasis by allowing concrete to be added style on your walls. You can even incorporate Contemporary or Modern art and really bring the room full-circle in a clash of different genres finding harmony in one another.

Shelves

Looking to create an eye-catching accent in your home. Add floating concrete shelves to your space to give your walls a unique accent. These shelving solutions are very heavy, so make sure you mount them well.

Décor

Concrete décor has slowly been making its way into design. Accent pieces like candle holders, planters, stools, and end tables can really add brutalism into your atmosphere. Try looking for concretes that complement one another and do not clash.

Rigid and polished can have very distinguished different looks, but can both be used in your design. Whatever you choose, find harmony. Concrete is making a strong statement this year in commercial design and can really spruce up your residential space as well.

It does not take an interior design expert to achieve professional-level results. However, many homeowners find pulling off a mixed color scheme as a challenge. An easy way you can create both harmony and visual interest is with a monochromatic color scheme. A monochromatic color scheme involves using one color in different variations throughout a room. In fact, a monochromatic color design means that a set color is defined in different ways and forms. Both neutral and bold hues can be monochromatic. The thought of sticking to a single color may sound bland, but it is actually trendy in home decor. You can create beautiful spaces that appear larger when using this design strategy, and if you are interested in learning more, be sure to keep on reading!

Color Palette

Since a monochromatic design scheme relies on the use of a single color, you will have to first decide on what hue you are going to use in the space. Once you have settled on a color, consider how you can successfully pull off this look.

Tones, Tints, and Shades

The key to decorating in a monochromatic color scheme is to embrace several unique tones, tints, and shades of the hue. In fact, using different tones, tints, and shades will prevent the design from becoming dull and flat. For instance, if you have decided to use the color blue in your living room, here is how you can use the monochromatic design:

• Dark navy blue sofa
• Light baby blue window treatments
• A rug in the deepest shade of blue

If you have selected a color that is especially deep and dark, then you should balance things out by implementing some pale pieces.

Textures

To further enhance the look by adding dimensions to the monochromatic design, you can use textures and patterns. Pillows, throws, artwork, and window treatments are a great way to add texture. Texture can appear light or dark in whatever hue you have selected.

Patterned Prints

Patterned prints can add additional visual interest. Be sure to choose fabrics with patterns that are harmonious with your theme. Once you have selected a fabric, you can apply it to upholstery for furnishings and accessories.

Have you ever tried a monochromatic color scheme in your space? If so, what tips and tricks would you give other readers? We would love to hear your thoughts in the comment section.