Principles of Design by Amanda Leahey
This picture illustrates harmony. The furniture, walls, and ceiling all use wood as their material. In addition, the legs of the chairs, table, and coffee table are similar because they are slightly angled out. The furniture pieces are also very simple in design. These similarities carried throughout the design create unity and harmony.
This design uses the principle of opposition rhythm. The design includes numerous right angles. The couch cushion is upholstered to include numerous squares, the rug and coffee table corners create right angles, the bookcase in the background has shelves that create right angles, the higher ground in the background creates a right angle (the step up to go to the area with the bookcases), and the rectangular steps create right angles, too.
This picture has radial rhythm. The table is the central point that the design revolves around. The chairs all face inward, creating circular design. The round light above the table also creates a radial design because it comes out from the middle , creating a balance that is carried on throughout the design.
This photo shows asymmetrical balance. The cabinets in the background are the main part of this design that creates asymmetry. While the back left cabinets are there, part of the back right cabinets are missing and are replaced by a shelf. This still creates balance because the items on the shelf make up space that is lost by the cabinet not being there.
This picture exemplifies symmetrical balance. The two pendant lights on either side of the design and the four, evenly spaced stools across the bottom of the photo help create a sense of balance. Both sides of the photo are exactly the same, from the stools to the cabinets and the counter. This photo is symmetrical on both sides.
Proportion is a principle used in this design. The size of the chairs are proportional to the counter so they fit well under the counter and don't appear to be too large or too small. The lights are also the right size as they, too, don't appear to be too large or small. Additionally, the island is not too large or too small, making everything look to scale.
This design exemplifies variety. The use of different material like wood, metal, soft fabric, and tough fabric is used in contrast with one another. Also, the use of both bright colors and neutrals can be seen in this design. These different styles combined into one design creates variety.
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