principles which guide their application, an interior designer communicates emotional and logical meaning in the rooms she creates.

   Space is a vital element in interior design.  When we build walls, we enclose a space, define it and give it expression for its visitors.  In our homes, most of us experience a lack of space and an excess of it. To increase spaciousness in a room: 

1. Place larger furniture near and parallel to walls, so the open space remains clear.  2. Use small-scale furniture, textures, and patterns. 3. Expose as much floor as possible by choosing furniture with legs instead of furniture with bases that sit directly on the floor.  To give a large space more definition and the feeling of intimacy:  1. Choose furnishings with varied heights to obstruct extended views.  2. Group furniture in clearly defined areas of activity. 3. Reduce the space or improve its proportions by using warm, dark colors.

    Form and shape are often used interchangeably.  Shape refers to the measurable, identifiable contours of an object, typically seen in its outline.  An example of this is a triangle shape, a round shape or a rectangular shape.  The objects that we place in our homes are forms that relate to each other and to the

spaces they express.  Form and space are inseparable because form gives space whatever dimension it has and space reveals, and even determines form. Form and shape give a space interest and evoke emotion.  When you look at the interior design of your home do your furniture, accessories and the architecture of your room give your room the message you want it to convey?

 Line, in the interior design world, is used to describe the outline of a shape or space.  An example of this would be where edges occur, flat surfaces meet, or there is a change in color, texture or material.  Psychologists and artists have studied the ways in which direction affects our feelings and our movements, and have made the following generalizations in relation to line:  1. Vertical lines give dignity and formality to a space. If high enough, they evoke feelings of aspiration and ascendancy.  2. Horizontal lines tend to be restful, relaxing and informal, especially when long, short and interrupted horizontals become a series of dashes.  3. Diagonal lines are more active because they suggest movement and energy.  Long diagonals extend space.  4.  Big upward curves are uplifting and inspiring.  5. Horizontal curves connote gentleness and relaxed movements. 6.  Small curves suggest playfulness and humor.

 Texture is how the surface qualities of material feel when we touch them.  It plays an important role in interior design by creating interest and variety as well as providing needed sensory stimulation.