WHAT IS INTERIOR DECORATING?

Interior design effects all senses and sets a mood. It’s creative and artistic and you know when it’s right because you can sense it. Interior design is the combination of sight, smell, feel and sound to create an environment that works in harmony. Good design makes a space not only comfortable to be in but practical for the use it’s intended. It can also reflect a cultural or historical style which in turn tells a story.

12 BASIC ELEMENTS OF INTERIOR DESIGN

1. SPACE
Observe the room, preferably without furniture, ceiling, ceiling height, doors, windows, flooring. The measurements of the room, windows & doors will determine placement of furniture. How will you achieve the mood in this space? The space is the blank canvas.
2. LIGHT
NATURAL LIGHT: which direction do the windows face and how strong is the sun in the room. In the southern hemisphere there will be more natural light in a room with a window facing north then a window facing south. This will determine the use of colour and artificial lighting.
ARTIFICIAL LIGHT: What is room going to be used for? This will determine the type & strength of lighting required. A study will require more than a bedroom. Is the light going to highlight features within the room? Lighting can be used to create a mood and careful selection is important.
3. STRUCTURE
Structure is a major consideration and can limit the ability to change or alter the design. This includes the materials used for the flooring, ceilings, doors & windows. Take note also of details including architraves, window surrounds and any other features.
4. BALANCE
This involves the placement of windows & doors, ceiling heights in relation to floor space, the view or lack of view. Correct balance will determine harmony and create a mood. Balance also involves the use of space, placement of furniture, decorative pieces and use of colour.
5. COLOUR
Colour is important in that it can completely change the character and mood of room, it is reflection of personality and has psychological implications. Colour combinations can be fun to use just as using a neutral background will give many options.
6. PROPORTION
Proportion is about the size of objects and fixtures occupying the space. To make things look balanced it can be how each of the objects relate to each other and the space around them rather than one piece on its own. Larger pieces of furnishings give a sense of grandeur whereas smaller pieces are dainty and delicate.
7. SHAPE
This is literally the shape of objects in a space. Shape along with colour is an essential element in a composition. Shape can also be indicative of certain styles, ie. Modern design has more angular shapes.
8. PATTERN
Patterns appear in fabric, flooring and sometimes wallpaper. Pattern can also be how items are grouped together or how architectural features appear. Differing moods can be conveyed through use of pattern.
9. TEXTURE
Texture also appears in fabric, flooring and walls. It can also appear in surfaces such as benchtops. Differing moods can be conveyed through use of pattern.
10. REPETITION
Repetition can be expressed in architectural features or in the pattern of fabrics and finishes. Repetition can also be in the placement of furnishings and can form a balanced framework. Repetition can form the foundation of a design or it can be a subtle theme running through a design.
11. RHYTHM
Rhythm is related to balance and harmony, it invites the eye to move across the space in a pleasing way.
12. HARMONY
Harmony is the end result. When all the above elements work well together, harmony is achieved.

Wrapt has a variety of furniture & homewares available for purchase to beautify your home. Visit us in store at 299 Old Northern Rd, Castle Hill NSW 2154. For more information visit www.wrapthome.com.au