Of the seven principles of design, contrast is considered one of the most powerful and impactful. Contrast is often used to add depth and make a space visually appealing, whilst highlighting the elements that you want the focus on.
What is Contrast?
To create contrast, two or more elements with opposing characteristics (big and small, light and dark etc) are placed together in a space. You can introduce contrast into your home by using colour, texture, shape, and various materials.
When implemented correctly, contrast can create a striking effect in your home – taking it from boring to interesting!
How You Can Use Contrast in Your Home
When creating contrast in your home, you want to ensure that your opposing elements compete in a way that emphasise each other yet still work together to create harmony.
To create contrast with colour, use colours on opposite sides of the colour wheel, such as blue and orange, purple and yellow, black and white etc. These combinations can create effective contrast in your home.
If using shape to create contrast, use different combinations of shapes such as circles and squares or sharp and soft lines. Shape can also be introduced through the space itself in the form of a spiral staircase or domes and arches.
Introduce different textures, perhaps smooth marble with linen or wood with faux fur. Texture can be implemented through furniture, flooring, artwork, decor, and furnishings.
Using various materials in your design creates contrast by default. When furnishing your home, the items you choose are generally made of different materials, so contrast is created organically. It’s the material of the items you choose that will determine the effectiveness of your contrast attempts, for example, consider mixing natural wood with glass or stone with metal.
Contrast is a powerful design element and when used effectively can make your space visually more appealing and memorable.
Contact the Lateral Building Design team to discuss your design ideas!
