1. Balance

2. Balance: What is it?
The resolution of interacting forces, attractions or weights.
Equilibrium
Visual, not actual weights

3. Balance
In order for things to balance you need to be aware of their visual weight.
Some heavy items might look visually light, and some light items might look heavy.

4. Things That Are Heavy Large Objects and Spaces Opaque materials
Unusual and unique shapes
Rough Textures and Patterns
Objects above eye level

5. Large Objects

6. Opaque Materials Opaque Materials You can’t see through them
Glass table top vs. wood table top

7. Unusual or Unique Shapes

8. Rough Textures

9. Objects Above Eye Level

10. There Are Three Types of Balance
Symmetrical
Asymmetrical
Radial

11. Symmetrical Balance Also known as formal balance
One side of the room is a mirror image of the other
Focuses on a central point in the room

12. Symmetrical Balance
The design is equal on either side of a center point.
Symmetrical balance can be achieved through furniture arrangement

13. Symmetrical Balance Creates a quiet, peaceful arrangement
Symmetrical Balance can occur on a table top arrangement, or on a fireplace mantle.

14. Asymmetrical Balance Also known as informal balance
Use objects of similar size
Move the heavier object to the center

15. Asymmetrical Balance Can be achieved through furniture arrangement.
Place 2 chairs opposite a sofa

16. Asymmetrical Balance
Is often used when informality and flexibility are desired
Makes us feel more invigorated.
Suggests movement
Often has more lasting appeal.

17. Asymmetrical Balance
Asymmetrical balance must be balanced, its just that the items are different on each side. It does not mean that the room or arrangement is out of balance. For example, two small frames can be used to balance out one large frame.

18. Radial Balance
A larger central object is surrounded by smaller objects
Furnishings are arranged in a circular pattern
The effect can create motion in a room

19. Radial Balance
Most often found in a dining room setting in today’s homes.
A table surrounded by chairs.