Principle One

I believe that one of the most important principles of design is BALANCE. For a room to feel good, it must have equality or equilibrium between pieces, colors, space, etc. By manipulating these aspects of the room to properly balance, the space will simply... feel right.

Of course there are various ways to achieve balance. One way is radially.

This room exemplifies radial balance in the way the round table and the chairs seem to emanate from the chandelier, like concentric rings in water.

Balance is also achieved symmetrically.

Notice how the mirrors on the left wall are identical, but mirror each other? Also, they are centered with the dining group and positioned above the baseboard about the same distance as the baseboard is tall.

Note, you can also achieve balance in your decor asymmetrically.

The back wall showcases a buffet table and a large scale painting. This grouping balances out the wall of mirrors because it is of similar scale.

Think of symmetrical and asymmetrical this way:

Symmetrical: Pieces are the exact same on both sides of a center line. In this picture, identical sofas opposite the coffee table, as well as identical chairs opposite the coffee table in the other direction.

Asymmetrical: In this example, to balance the mass of the sofa, upholstered chairs and a small round end table were grouped opposite the main sofa. Different pieces, but equal mass.

I am a sucker for balance. If the balance is off in even the tiniest of ways, it can throw the whole room out of whack. Symmetry between the placement of pieces is key even in the most ordinary of rooms. I know some are the type to enjoy things at a skew, but not me. To me, symmetry means rightness, order, peace, stability.

If you use this principle of balance in all aspects of design, from furniture arrangement to accessory placement, your room will come together in a positively cohesive way - even if your taste is "mix and match flee market finds."