Rhythm is number 7 on
the principles of design list. We define
rhythm as being “created when one or more elements of design are used repeatedly to
create a feeling of organized movement.
Variety is essential to keep rhythm exciting and active, and it creates
a mood like music or dancing.” Now, the
elements of design are the tools – lines, shapes, forms, space, colors, and
textures. We have put them to use in our
previous principles. And now it is time
to dance.
One way to offer up a rhythm vibe in a room is to
layer textures. Silky bed coverings
paired with embellished accent pillows and crisp, white linen shams keep a
welcoming bed from being a one-note wonder.
A smooth leather ottoman atop a fuzzy, thick area rug next to an
upholstered sofa brings variation to your seating area and visual appeal to
your space. An ornate lighting fixture
hanging in an entryway that is greeted with the sleek lines of a modern foyer
table and the repeating pattern of a rug flush with the front door threshold
provides those spice notes that meets your guests with swooning applause.
Using color to hit all the right notes also adds
that rhythmic element to your home.
Rhythm obviously joins with Movement to bring layers of design into a
space. Repeat your chosen colors in
interesting ways to generate that beat. Pick
up a soft tone from your fabrics in a living area or bedroom and paint your
ceiling that pale shade in lieu of the standard white. Take an accent shade from a rug and use it
again in printed pillows, drapery panels, wall canvases, and accessories on
shelves. Paint your walls the color of
your sofa or other seating, and then let the smaller pieces be more muted while
the big elements pop.
March to the beat of your own drummer and find
the rhythm that works for the space you reside in. And for you Johnny Cash fans – you know I had to go there – you can get
a rhythm so you don’t get the
blues.
DesignInMind column; appeared in the Valley Morning Star May 27th.
