The principle of emphasis is the next topic in the series.
Emphasis
This is probably the easiest principle to understand of the five. You’ve probably heard a gazillion times that a focal point is a must in any room. A fireplace is the first example that most people think of. It’s rare that a room with a fireplace does not having its furnishings arranged to take advantage of this feature. With flat screen televisions and ventless fireplaces, combining the fireplace and TV into one focal point is becoming much easier.
Emphasis goes beyond simply picking a focal point and highlighting it. There are a number of levels (infinite, really) within a room, and good design will have elements at each one. For instance, a key focal point might be the fireplace. Secondary to that might be a view from a window. The furnishings and artwork might be subordinate to that, and finally the “blank” spaces would fall on the lowest level. By having different elements at each level in this emphasis hierarchy, you create variation, rhythm and interest, while still allowing space of the eye to rest.
You must be careful not to have too many elements at the same level. You’ll run the risk of having either a very boring space or one that bombards the visitor with too much stimulation. If you don’t have a natural focal point in your space, such as a fireplace, you can create one by highlighting a particular piece of furniture, artwork, or by simply painting a contrasting color in one area. Try to maintain balance, though, so that the focal point doesn’t hog all of the attention.
In Part V of this series, I’ll cover the final principle, Harmony.
