Movement
is the third design principle. When it
comes to art in particular, movement is defined as “the path the viewer’s
eye takes through the artwork, often to focal areas. Such movement can be directed along lines,
edges, shape, and color.” So this week,
we’re not just focusing on what we
emphasize in our home decor, but how
we ensure that others look from area to area in a flattering fashion.
Think up, down, and across. No, not crossword puzzle directions. But rather, examine the visual flow in each
room in your home. What causes us to
look from spot to spot? Let’s start with
“up.” Stairs come to mind first. If you have a second story or just a few
steps up to your front door, consider different colors or surface materials for
steps versus risers. Some paint their
stairs, using one color for the steps and a different color for the risers,
such as espresso and white. Stair steps
can be covered in carpet, while risers remain a painted or stained wooden
surface. The eye catches the variation
differently than a solid block of color or single material, causing that visual
tick up.
You can hang floating shelves in clusters to
display framed photos, artwork, or some decorative items like pottery, vases, shells,
or metals. When the edges of the shelves
are in contrast to the wall color behind them, you can create movement from
line to line in your collection, whether they are one lined up on top the other
or hung in a staggered pattern.
Another popular design today is a chevron pattern,
the repeated pattern of zigzag lines, alternating usually between white and a
bold or bright color. A large chevron
area rug can create movement in a seating arrangement or under a dining table,
as if to welcome you into that space.
Round décor, whether wall art, frames, or a
collection of mirrors or old ceiling tiles, can be hung together to create a
whimsical flow that draws the eye through a space with fluid movement. A grouping without rigid edges remains loose
and visually flowing from piece to piece.
Incorporating movement into your living space is
all about adding or rearranging elements that help the eye keep traveling
through the space. What makes you look
across your walls, through your displays, and around your furniture? Keep the ball rolling by having precisely
positioned pieces that keep the eye moving.
Now you’re on a roll.
Next week: Pattern and Repetition
DesignInMind column; appeared in the Valley Morning Star May 6th.
