When we think about interior design, our first thought is usually to source out magazines, watch HGTV or browse the internet. But for a designer, their thoughts turn to the 7 elements of design, Space, Line, Form, Light, Colour, Texture and Pattern. Each one of these 7 elements plays an important role in how a designer will navigate the process of designing your home.

SPACE

The physical boundaries of each room. A designer themselves can not change the square footage of your existing space. So, unless your plan is to change the physical layout and footprint of your home, then you are restricted to work within the dimensions of each room as is.

LINE

The lines of a room not only shape the room but guide the eye around the room.

· Horizontal lines (extend side to side) are typically achieved with tables, counters and other surfaces to create the illusion of a wider room

· Vertical lines (extend up and down) are the windows and doorways of a room

· Dynamic Lines (diagonal, curved or zigzag) can be found in a staircase, beautiful parquet floor or a rug. These lines should be kept to a minimum

FORM

Simply put, the form is the shape of the room and any object within it.

LIGHT

Natural or man-made, light is essential to any design.

· Natural light is achieved by windows, skylights, door placement and even the use of mirrors to reflect that light

· Man-made light such as light fixtures, lamps, dimmers are used to create the mood of the room

COLOUR

The colour of the room is one of the most crucial elements of design. Here are things to consider while deciding on the colour of your room.

· What is the room used for, kitchen, living, bedroom, bathroom?

· What is the shape and size of the room?

· Lighting (both natural and man-made)

TEXTURE

Texture is both physical (to the touch) and visual and is key to any design.

· Furniture, fabrics and accessories add texture, interest and detail

· Mixing materials such as wood, stone and fabrics enhance the space

PATTERN

Pattern works hand in hand with the colour and texture of the room. It can be found in fabrics, wallpaper, rugs and soft furnishings.

Things to consider while implementing pattern:

· Size and style of the room

· Size and scale of the patterns used

· Colour

· Creating visual balance (don’t overwhelm the room)

So, while leafing through magazines, watching HGTV and browsing the internet for “design ideas”, consider hiring a professional for design guidance and execution of your project. They will assist you in creating the look and feel you want your room to evoke.

From the team at CS&O