BALANCE < = >

BALANCE < = >

This may be the hardest concept I will have as a new Interior Designer. Why you ask? Because I am relatively OCD about things balancing symetrically in my home decoration. If something is on the left, it must also be on the right. If there is a certain color on the left, it must also be on the right. This isn't because I can't appreciate it when it isn't.. it just is my preference. But it even comes down to things must be completely centered on a wall...furniture, artwork, etc. It is a blessing and a curse.

Balance - by definition refers to the distribution of visiual weight within a composition (1), but this can be achieved several ways.

(1) " Balance ". Design Basics. 7th Edition. Lauer/Pentak. 90. Print

Symmetrical Balance

This is probably the most recognizable balance trait in interior design. Basically..whatever you have done on the left, do again on the right. You fine this design in artwork, furniture placement, etc.


Eisner Designs. "Design Photography: Let's Get Symmetrical." Houzz. Web. 20 Apr. 2012. http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/905184.



Asymmetrical Balance

Asymmetrical balance is achieved by different types of items with similiar visual weight or attraction to the eye being used horizontally or vertically to create picture. In the picture to the left, the strong room dividing wall is balanced by oversized light fixtures and table on the opposite side of the room.


"Interior Design Ideas, Tips & Inspiration." ChicTip Interior Design Blog. Web. 20 Apr. 2012. http://www.chictip.com/page/2.



Balance by Color or Value

Just as in asymmetrical balance, the balance of the room can be achieved by color. As in this picture to the right. The strong orange color on the right wall is balanced by the white sofa and chair on the left. Even though there is minimal furniture on the right, the color on the wall balances the strong furniture on the left.

"Decorating 101: Color Wheel, Value and Balance." Interior Decorating Ideas, Interior Design and Interior Decorating Tips, Home Design, Room Ideas for Your Inspiration– InteriorHolic. Web. 20 Apr. 2012. http://www.interiorholic.com/decorating/decorating-101-color-wheel-value-and-balance/.

Texture and Pattern

When decorating with strong patterns and textures, you can achieve balance by equalling a texture on one side with a pattern on the other. In the picture above, the heavy fireplace rock wall is balanced by the large pattern on the rug.
"HOMESLICE." : December 2011. Web. 20 Apr. 2012. http://heyhomeslice.blogspot.com/2011_12_01_archive.html


Radial Balance

Radial balance is achieved by objects radiating from a center circular object. It is not confined to symmetrical or aysymmetrical designs as it can be either, depending on how the objects burst from the center.

"Lighting." Comerford Collection. Web. 20 Apr. 2012. http://www.comerfordcollection.com/custom-lighting/urchin.shtml.