Before we discuss the 5  Most Important Types of Balance in design, I am taking a walk down memory lane. When I took foundational studies (design art class), I learned a creative way to dissect and analyze artists’ work and their perception of paintings and artwork. These observations allowed me to formulate an opinion about defining art and its meaning through the artist’s eyes. This article will teach about five essential Balance types in design to help guide your interior design decisions.

Unlock the potential of your design projects by embracing guiding rules that elevate your vision. In a previous journal entry, I delved into the essential eight design principles to consider when planning any room. Discover the in-depth exploration of these principles commonly employed by interior designers to achieve remarkable designs in any space. Dive into that post to gain valuable insights on balance in design and empower your design journey.

1st Most Important Type of Balance in Design is Formal Balance

Formal Balance is also known as Symmetrical Balance. It seeks to equally distribute the visual weight of objects, colors, and texture equivalently to either side of your design.

Note: In this photo, we have an example of formal Balance. A one-point perspective photograph displays an empty hallway focusing on the center of the door (as the focal point). You can imagine a vertical axis along the photo dividing the composition equally. Each side has the same number of embellished columns and window openings.

Note: In traditionally designed sitting rooms, you typically see formal Balance displayed frequently. This critical principle is evident when furniture pieces are arranged equally on either side of the room, as depicted in the photo above.

2nd Most Important Type of Balance is Asymmetrical Balance

Asymmetrical Balance, or Informal Balance, is displayed when items or elements in your design show an untraditional composition in a room. At the same time, the technique or artwork still feels and looks balanced.

Note: In Modern Interiors, Asymmetrical Balance conveys an unconventional way of designing. At first glance, this room immediately displays a balanced design. The different properties are the lack of formality. The focus is the fireplace, nestled in the corner of the room. When you pan, the second focal point is the stairs to the right-hand side. The stairs create another division, which is very subtle but proportionally divides the room on a horizontal axis. The informal Balance occurs when both rooms merge into a big open-concept floor plan.

Note: From this comprehensive perspective, the room is in equilibrium because of the repeating stairs on either side. The fireplace remains to be arranged uniquely in this composition because it is placed aside in the corner.

3rd Most Important Type of Balance is Radial Balance

Radial Balance is an approach to have the eye focus on one central point while an object repeats, typically in a round motion.

Note: The focal point is the art installation when looking down at the center of the spiraling staircase. While the stairs are repeated gradually, each step expands in size in a circular pattern. This concept forces the eye to move in a radial sequence.

Note: This photo shows the perfect example of a focal point directing your eye to the center of the restaurant booth. The ceiling grabs your attention instantly as you look straight up to the center, where an exquisite light fixture is available. Although this design is not circular or uses a gradual rhythm, it draws your eye to this dramatic wall-to-ceiling pattern that focuses on a central point.

4th Most Important Type of Balance is Vertical Balance

Vertical Balance gives elements significant height and shape while drawing your eyes up. Using Vertical Balance as a method reinforces a sure moment to break up anything that might be monotonous in the design.

Note: The key here is the vertical wood slats that capture your attention immediately. The height of that material keeps the symmetry in the room because the slats are equally divided. The dining set provides a center point allowing you to pan the room from top to bottom.

5th Most Important Type of Balance is Horizontal Balance

Finally, we have Horizontal Balance, when you focus on the design or a piece of art from left to right. Much like looking at art or designing a 3D object on a Y-axis (vertically), you should think of your design on an X-axis (horizontally). It enables you to keep significant similarities in the design while conveying a homogeneous concept.

Note: As you begin to practice this, you should realize your project has been given close attention in a quadrant format. This theory allows similar layering elements in your design to create cohesiveness. The raised paneling trim added vertically in this example expresses a beautiful layering effect providing visual interest in the design. The trim moldings placed horizontally make a natural break for the eye to rest and digest the room composition.

A Recipe to Consider for Achieving Balance in Your Design

Now that I have discussed the five most essential Balance types in these gorgeously designed case studies, be confident to use these ingredients below to achieve Balance in any room you design.

• Lines: Darker line weight in the foreground has an impactful expression, while lighter line weights appear insignificant in the background.
• Shape: The use of geometric figures, organic forms, and two-dimensional figures creates unity
• Form: Three-dimensional objects and organic elements adds variety to a composition. Similarly, adding photos, people, animals, furniture, and nature creates new art pieces. 
• Color: Bright colors express a sense of vibrancy, while darker tones create a dramatic statement. 
• Texture: Gives an actual appearance to textiles that are smooth, silky, fluffy, and bumpy. 
• Space: Placing many objects and items reveals hierarchy in an area; it can also add presence and design dominance.

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JOURNAL

Le Chateau De Pierre is an Architecture and Interior Design Journal dedicated to sharing and exploring tips for emerging professionals and educating readers about great architecture and building design concepts. Our publication is designed to inspire and inform both new and experienced Interior designers, architects, and those interested in the field of architecture.