The Sunday News
Amanda Ncube
MOST people confuse interior design with interior decorations. Interior design refers to designing the entire space from scratch while interior decoration dwells on decorating an existing space such as adding furniture.
Interior design is bound by its own elements and principles which ought to be followed in order to create a beautiful home.
In this week’s column I will highlight other elements of interior design such as space, form (shape), light and colour.
Colour element establishes an aesthetic link between the object and the mood.
For example the natural shades offer balance and much needed texture while the colours such as copper or brass light fixtures offers the appropriate task lighting and also becoming the focal point in the space binding the various elements together, creating an equilibrium to your space.
Colours must be selected according to what homeowners like.
For example, red is an excellent choice for the dining room as it encourages appetite and green for bedroom as it is the colour of tranquillity.
Space is one of the most essential elements of interior design. It acts as a foundation on which the entire interior design plan is built.
Hence, it is important that people are well aware of the space available, its dimensions and its utilities.
Open space element can be achieved by having a high ceiling exposing the available space as well as the design used.
By so doing you will be creating space regardless of how small your room is. For example if you decide to have an industrial design your wall should be painted with bright colours in order to bring light.
The black elements throughout create contrast and visual interest. Positive space is created through the use of furniture, decor and architectural elements such as cabinetry, while negative space is the unused space throughout.
Closed space element is made up of dark walls.
The furniture would be considered as the negative space and in contrast, the neutral accent decor, trim and windows create balance of positive space. Always make sure that there is balance between furniture and the placement of different items.
In light element the focus is on a unique type or light that you may use, be it natural or man-made.
Without light other elements are irrelevant.
It sets the mood and ambience into your space. If you want natural light, first consider where you place your windows as well as your doors.
While man-made light can be used as task lights (light sources for other household items such as table), accent light (these are meant to highlight particular pieces such as artwork) and ambient light (it sets the mood).
Shape or form can be created by combining two or more shapes and can be accentuated with the assistance of other elements such as texture or colour.
It emphasises mostly on the fitted elements that were available before added furniture.
This means that whatever furniture you bring should complement the built-in items. When correctly done it can establish harmony and balance to your space.
