MacDougall Holmes ::: Adventures in Home Decor

Good Design – A Few Tips

Good design is made of balance. Balance in color and texture, size and scale, style and symmetry. Once good balance is achieved, the foundation on which to build a breathtaking space is laid.

Sometimes we buy a piece “just because we love it.” Now, where will it fit in our home? Some things to think about:

Color
When opposing, contrasting colors are mixed, a blast of contrast results - this is perfect if the goal is to emphasizes an individual piece. If a piece is of a complimentary color, it will work well with the surroundings with a more subtle feel and not scream out at you - this is perfect for the pieces intended to create a “base style” on which to build out the rest of the space. If a piece is the same color as its new surroundings, it will blend in, often unnoticed – but, this often works well in a space washed in one or two colors if its an extraordinary piece with the presence to stand on its own.

Design
Balance in design keeps the “theme” of the room alive. A clean Euro-contemporary room with one classic American colonial piece as its focal point will not work well in most cases. Mixing styles works best when there are a few pieces to help pull everything together in a grounding style. From there, an array of styles can be added to create an eclectic look, steadied by the grounding pieces.

Size
Often small spaces are cluttered with small accent pieces. Larger pieces in a small space will actually make the space seem larger and more accessible. For example, a small powder room with rich colors and large colorful carved pieces will turn the space into a “jewel box” type of room. Always experiment with size, shapes and textures – you will surprise yourself and please your inner designer.

Scale and Symmetry
If two similar vases are placed next to each other they will probably look rigid and unfinished. But if a smaller vase is placed to the front and side of a larger vase, your eye catches it more easily and the cascade effect draws your eye upward to the entire room instead of from side to side. The movement of visual focus is key to making a space visually exciting.

In the end, mix, match, paint – whatever it takes to “make the space yours.” Good design makes you feel good – at home, and happy with your surroundings. It’s easy to feel stress when you enter a room and something isn't “right.” You can feel it. If you need help, ask for it. There are many talented professionals, as well as amateurs, to assist you in your design journey.