Room Design – Balancing Color, Texture, and Pattern

To please the eye, an interior design must provide both variety and structure. While a mix of textures, colors, and patterns is stimulating, an underlying theme prevents chaos. However, an even balance of contrast is usually unsatisfactory; the effect goes unnoticed.

The driving principle of effective design may be expressed as: “A lot of one element mixed with some of its opposite.”. The primary design element can be a color family, a shape, a texture, a pattern. The predominance of this element sets the scheme. add excitement by placing a few items that contrast sharply with the predominant element.

As a rule, use your dominant element in large areas such as walls and floors. Distribute that element evely around the room in furniture, window treatments, and accessories. Finally, add contrasting accents. Trust your eye. If the result doesn’t look right, move things around, or add and subtract elements one at a time.

A monochromatic palette (different shades of the same color) is invigorated by accessories of different textures. The key is the calculated interplay of surface finishes. Soft, filmy fabrics mix with nubby yarn. Rough textures evoke a casual atmosphere. In this room, rough-textured flooring, wicker chairs, and unembellished wood inspire a comfortable, informal atmosphere. A distinctive architectural feature may suggest a form that can be reflected in other areas. Deep, rich colors give an expansive space warmth and weight. Standing lamps that cast small pools of light prevent the large space from becoming overwhelming. Thoughtful placement of furniture creates cozy conversational groupings. Focal points of intricate detail also contribute to the comfortable sense of scale. A good pattern is worth repeating. Details make or break a design. Keep your eyes open for accessories that work with your decorating scheme.

For more great home design articles visit http://www.HomeDepotArticles.com.