Creating Balance
The definition of balance is simple: the harmonious arrangements of components.
But the execution of achieving balance in the design of a room? Not so simple. It’s not something you can measure and there are no ‘rules’ to follow. Rather it’s a feeling that designers create by making sure no single item, color or shape overpowers another in a room.
So if balance is a feeling, how can we try to achieve it in our own homes? Let’s start by taking a look at these two rooms and identifying why one feels more balanced:
In this room, there is no feeling of balance. There’s not a particularly balanced furniture arrangement, there’s a lot of white with no black or other colors, and it’s full of hard surfaces with no textures or wood tones to soften the space.
In this room, on the other hand, we see a balanced color palette, lots of organic and non-organic elements, and symmetry through the furniture arrangement. Also notice the variety of shapes: square benches + a round coffee table or the painted arch + the linear chandelier.
Symmetry
Photo Credit: Kate Lester Interiors
One of the simplest ways to infuse a sense of balance is to create symmetry. This means repeating identical elements on either side of the centerline of the room (think: if you folded the room in half, the two sides would mirror each other).
Photo credit: Amber Interiors
This can be accomplished through symmetrical furniture layout i.e. two matching chairs on either side of the couch or matching nightstands on the sides of the bed. But could also be done using decor like two identical sconces on either side of a gallery wall or two tall matching plants in both corners of a dining room. Our eyes recognize symmetry as order and makes us feel calm.
Asymmetry
This may feel contrary to the previous tip, but sometimes if we have too much symmetry a room can also feel a little off. Adding in unexpected asymmetry makes a room feel more interesting, unique and elevated. Whereas symmetry is based on repeating identical objects, asymmetry is focused on repeating visual weight, scale and texture. So although it can be a little harder to achieve, when done right, the final result can be stunning.
Photo Credit: The Lifestyled Co.
Asymmetry can be achieved through:
Varying shapes and silhouettes of furniture like an angular open frame chair with a curved upholstered couch
Balance height - candlesticks on one side of the fireplace and a vertical piece of art on the other
Using odd numbers of furniture pieces like having 3 chairs instead of 4
Photo Credit: Havenly
In order for it not to feel totally chaotic, make sure you add continuity elsewhere such as a cohesive color palette or matching window treatments or sconces.
Radial Symmetry
The third type of balance is radial symmetry - which is created when the center of the room is the focal point and all the other elements radiate outwards in straight or curved lines. Think of a round dining table with identical chairs.
Photo Credit: Lark & Linen Interior Design
This idea is often applied to feng shui because it’s a pattern for life and often found in nature, like a flower, the sun or a snowflake.
Color Scheme
The final element to consider is choosing a balanced color scheme. A room full of different colors can feel chaotic and stressful and a room with too much of one color can feel flat and boring. When choosing your palette, try using the 60-30-10 rule:
60% primary color (walls, large pieces of furniture, rug)
30% complementary color (small pieces of furniture and window treatments)
10% accent color (art, pillows, small decor items)
It can be subtle, using black, whites, and browns:
Photo Credit: Hunting for George
Or with more colors like reds, blues, and browns.
Photo Credit: Magnolia Home
By doing your best to consider these four key areas of balance (symmetry, asymmetry, radial symmetry and color scheme) you’ll be sure to transform your space into one that feels calm and relaxing but elevated and chic.
PS. Reach out today to schedule a consultation OR purchase a virtual custom styling package - no matter where you live let’s bring your room to life!
