Micthell - Interior design : a true beginners guide to decorating on a budget

Balance can be best described as the equal distribution of visual interest in a room. There are 3 ways you can achieve balance in your interior design: asymmetrical, symmetrical and radial.

Symmetrical balance is more traditional and is considered to be the safest. You can achieve this effect by putting two of the same things on each side of the room. So if you have a nightstand on one side of a bed, symmetrical balance requires that you put the same on the other side. Symmetry is the easiest way to achieve balance in any room design. This could be achieved with artwork, ornament or even decoration. Two alcoves at either side of a fireplace can be balanced off nicely by decorating them in the same kind of colors, so that the focal point is the actual fireplace, but the symmetry of the room is maintained.

Asymmetrical balance on the other hand is more modern and lively. To achieve this effect, dissimilar objects are used to add visual weight to a room. So instead of adding another nightstand on the other side of the bed, you can maybe add a large mirror to achieve that sense of balance. The feel of this style is very casual, but it can get a bit too casual, especially if the design elements are not thought out properly. This form of decoration is very popular with young people who may have open plan spaces. By using this, the rules change and a wall of colorful wallpaper can be introduced to highlight an actual area of the room, rather than trying to balance the look by using the same dcor.

Radial balance is achieved when elements are arranged around a central point. This is the least commonly used style since it requires a large space in order to be executed well. However, you can do this in a small room if you are clever about the content that you put into the room. For example, smaller furniture in a smaller room gives the impression that the room is larger.

Every well designed room needs to have at least one focal point. A focal point is that area in a room that doesn t just draw attention to it, but it should also create a lasting impression. In some homes, the focal point can be a fireplace, while in others, its windows. To create a natural focal point in your home, look for that area that is highly visible. Then place an interesting piece of furniture, or artwork that you want to highlight in that area. Make sure to maintain room balance so that your focal point doesn t end up hogging all the attention.