When it comes to elements of design, creating balance is crucial. It ensures that a room feels harmonious and proportionate. To achieve balance, it is important to consider the scale of the pieces in the room and to distribute the visual weight equally. A talented designer can achieve balance through paint color, furniture placement, lighting, art or accessories.

There are many factors to consider when creating balance in a space. It’s all about making sure each element in the room doesn’t overpower another. Let us take you through some of our go-to tips for creating balance in interior design!

– All photos are from projects by Beth Haley Design (BHD).

Start With Symmetry

Balance can be easily achieved by symmetry, which refers to creating a mirror image of a scene. An example of this would be matching bedside tables on either side of a centered bed or matching accent chairs flanking a window. This is a more traditional look, but it’s undeniably soothing. You can always add something different with a bold color, funky pattern, or a mix of artwork.

elements of design

One of the simplest and most satisfying ways to create balance in a room is through symmetrical furniture alignment, like these two identical bedside tables and matching lamps, as well as the bed’s throw pillows and the lighting and framed artwork.

Asymmetry Works, Too!

When properly executed, asymmetry also achieves a feeling of balance. Asymmetry is less formulaic and creates less structured spaces. To achieve asymmetry, try mixing and matching sofas, chairs, and side tables, but bringing cohesion and symmetry with complementing decor and a specific color palette.

Interior Designer Nashville

This living room features varied objects thoughtfully arranged to create balance.

Create Contrast

Use color and different textures and materials to create contrast. Rather than embracing an all-white palette, add a pop of color or an accent wall with graphic wallpaper. The same goes for fabrics and textures. All linen or all leather gets boring fast, while a velvet sofa and a leather accent chair combined with a patterned rug appear more layered and interesting.

modern living room

When it comes to a color palette and materials, contrast is incredibly important.

Consider Size

Another one of our favorite tips is to always mix up the size and shape of assorted decorative objects. Consider pairing a large piece of artwork or mirror with different-sized vases and smaller books to create a balanced display. Don’t be afraid to rearrange, add, subtract, and play around with different pieces until you find the right balance.

Interior Designer Nashville

The artwork, books, and other décor pieces in this bookcase create visual intrigue.

Mix and Match Heights

Design elements should fall on different vertical planes. When in doubt, place a standing lamp, oversized vase, or houseplant in a sparse corner. Varying the heights of different items and decor creates balance without overwhelming the room. It helps move your eye through the space and also ensures that every part of your room is active and not stale.

Interior decorator Nashville

To achieve balance, add a tall element to the room — like a houseplant!

Creating balance in interior design is an art form, which also means it is a never-ending work in progress! We hope we have provided enough of our go-to design tips to help you get started. Now it’s time to incorporate balance into your own home!

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Discover more of our blog posts here, as well as this feature in StyleBlueprint, where we are mentioned as one of the best interior designers in Nashville. We’d love to work with you if you are looking for professional advice! Please get in touch with us here!