From the Floors Up

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

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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

How To Use the Elements and Principles Of Design To Decorate Like An Interior Designer, Part 14

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Part 14 Proportion

Proportion, as it applies to home design, is the size of something measured against other elements in a room, or against some mental norm or standard. It can be used to create balance, emphasis, harmony, etc. Typically we show you the ‘how to’ rather than the ‘how not to,’ but in this case we’ll illustrate how it influences a room with an example that exaggerates the way it looks when it’s misused.

In our mind’s eye we are accustomed to the norm of a bedside lamp being smaller scale than the bed next to it or the table it stands on. However, the lamp in the photo is much bigger than that norm. It is clearly too large for the nightstand, and it looks odd standing taller than the top of the headboard because it is so top-heavy. In other words, it’s disproportionate to the rest of the décor. If your goal is a room that is harmonious and grounded be sure to compare the size relationships between all of the elements in the room.

With that said, skewed proportion is also a very effective way to achieve emphasis. Have you ever walked into a room with gargantuan fireplace and impossibly high ceilings? The effect is stark and immediate. No matter what else is going on in the space, the fireplace and open air above your head will be foremost in your mind. Another great way to use this technique is to showcase artwork. If it’s bigger than all that surrounds it, it’s sure to be the star of the show in your room.

Proportion is also an important consideration if you are upsizing your home. Let’s say you just moved into your dream home and it has an enormous great-room. There’s a good chance the furniture from your previous home will feel out of place because it looks so much smaller in the new space. The furniture is disproportionate to the room. Your first order of business in that case would be to purchase new furniture to the scale of the room.

Next read Part 15 – Scale

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

From the Floors Up

From the Floors Up blog was created with the goal of providing a destination for consumers, designers and those interested in the flooring, design, and kitchen and bath industries. Here you’ll find, current, accurate and informative information that is always just a click away!

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