Design Tip: 5 Types of Lines

Interior design is largely about visual perception.  That perception moves your eyes in certain ways, affecting your energy, productivity, and even your sense of well-being and peace.  

There are visible and invisible lines in your room.  Visible lines may be literally in your fabrics, or your paint pattern, wallpaper, or flooring.  More subtle are the lines that form between objects and features of the room.  Designers use 5 types of line:

1. Transitional lines include walls, floors, and ceilings
   Use these features to transition from one type of line to another.
2. Vertical lines create a sense of action and height.
   Line-patterned throw rugs provide an easy example.  A more subtle way to create line, is to place a tall, narrow accessory onto the top of a cocktail table, for example.  
3. Horizontal lines create a restful atmosphere, and widen a space.
   Consider wallpaper, or a patterned paint.
4. Diagonal lines create excitement and motion.
   Throw rugs, paint jobs, and the layout of pieces of furniture can create diagonal lines.  
5. Curved lines are feminine, graceful, and delicate.
   A few curves, such as the short exposed legs of a sofa, can create a country or rustic appearance.  But be careful with curves.  Ornate, curvy furniture often tends to be feminine (but not always); it may not be what a bachelor would want in his apartment.  

Keep Smilin'!