What Should You Focus On While Learning The Basics of Interior Design?

13 Jan What Should You Focus On While Learning The Basics of Interior Design?

Eyes are a free invaluable resource that we have unlimited exposure to for observing and learning.  Through our eyes we observe elements of design transmitting information to the brain about colour, light, layout, proportion and texture. In order to improve existing spaces, our eyes encapsulate visual images of a room which are then analysed and articulated into a design concept using our knowledge and skills.  The results are a pleasing composition of beauty and enjoyment.

Viewing scenarios or settings

Those who can master the opportunity of viewing a specific scene or setting and delving from the same the key elements to retain for visual success, are many steps ahead of the journey of mastering interior design.  For example, find examples of design settings that are pleasing or pleasant to you. The design setting can be obtained from real-life, books or magazines. If you close your eyes and then open them, the first item you focus upon is your focal point. Focal points may be an architectural feature or penetration of light, colourful flowers, a view through the window, artworks, a colourful piece of furniture or accessory.

Multiple focal points

It is sometimes erroneously eluded in magazine articles and television discussions that there is only one appointed focal point. However, this is not necessarily true because everyone that observes the room offers a unique angle or perspective. One person is likely to gaze intently upon the sofa, while another might focus on the fireplace because of the warmth of the flame and radiated light. Yet another person might shift his/her focus towards the dining table because of a stunning candelabra over or sparkling glassware and crockery upon it.  In this case, visual movement has been created by the use of several focus points creating energy, vitality and playfulness.

Activities taking place

Focus points attract attention therefore room activities are generally performed around architectural and furniture design layouts dictated to by the focus.   The interior decorator’s understanding of the focal point of a room is instrumental in learning the basics of design at any school of interior decorating.

Demand for attention

Certain architectural elements demand more attention than others. This then, could be one reason why most people misunderstand concepts of a focal point. As you learn interior design your understanding will become clear of the benefits of balancing the activity and the architectural focal points. Naturally, some people are going to be drawn towards favourite objects rather than a focus of a room.  This explains why an understanding of both the architectural elements and the living requirements are critical to realizing successful interior design.

Visual representation

Once basic understanding is achieved in terms of identifying focal points as well as the placement of furnishing and finishing items in that area, the final key to successful creation of interior design is the inclusion of visual stimuli such as art works and accessories. The fundamentals here are colour, light, subject matter, shape and texture.  Any object viewed by the eye is the result of the reflection of light and colour, whilst shape is determined by the overall form being reflected. Texture refers to the way objects feel to touch and degree of surface variation embellishment as seen by the naked eye. The right combination of these features result in an all-encompassing spatial atmosphere that is visually harmonious.