Vertical Line This picture shows the concept of the Vertical line through the bed post, the legs on the tables, the lights, and the smaller windows by the bead. In this picture, the vertical lines make the room look like it has more height, one of its intended purposes.

Horizontal Line In this photo of a family room, the horizontal line is shown through the beams on the ceiling, the couch, and the kitchen bar in the background that is given a longer look. In this picture, the room is given a wider look which is the horizontal line’s purpose.

Diagonal Lines This room shows diagonal lines on the wall behind the television and t he ceiling. It gives it the look that the room is taller. The Diagonal line gives the feeling of excitement and movement.

Curved Lines In the first picture, the curved line comes out in the walls and the sink. In the second picture, curved lines are showed in the arch over the counter, the arches in the chairs, and the arches on the curtains. They appear to be more natural and free. They are most common line in nature.

A Tint and Shade of One Color… …& What it Does to the Room In the first room, the color is a darker green. This is the shade of green. In the second room there is a lighter green, the tint. The first room has more of a darker feel to it, but also a cozy one. The second room has a lot of light to it and is more cheery.

Rough & Dull Dull & rough objects like stone, brick, and pottery reflect light unevenly making the colors look less bright and darker. In this picture, the stone for the fireplace is rough. So are some of the pottery above the mantel.

Smooth & Shiny Smooth and Shiny objects attract attention in a room and make colors clear and strong.

Proportion Proportion allows you to see the design as a whole. It refers to the division of space created by the value and intensity of colors. It uses texture, line, form, and space. It can be applied to furniture or shape of furniture.

Balance Balance is the idea that design elements must be “in balance” to create a pleasing effect. It creates he feeling of steadiness and making things look as if they belong there. There are two types of balance: “Formal”: symmetrical. This is created when one side matches the other-making it look as if it has a mirror effect. “Informal”: asymmetrical. The two sides are not the same, but are still balanced. This is an example of “formal” balance. Each side of the mantel is the same This is an example of “informal” balance. There is something different on each side of the mantel, but it still balances.

Rhythm “Rhythm” allows the eye to move from one part of a design to other areas. This effect is pleasing. Rhythm can be created by repeating a color, design, line or shape, in several areas of the room or by using them in a sequence. An example of rhythm in this picture is the picture frames.

Emphasis “Emphasis” means what is important. It brings on the desired focal pint, or point of interest in a room. The emphasis in this room is the bed. The frame and comforter of the room makes you focus on the bed.