1. SPACE

2. Space has many meanings in interior design:
Space is open and closed areas.
Spaces may be positive(filled)
or negative(open)
Space is the area a designer works with.

3. Theory of Proxemics-
Private space is 18”
Personal space is 2’-4’
Social space is 4’-12’
Public space is 12’ and beyond

4. It can be defined by walls, dividers, or
other objects.

5. There are two types of space:
Positive and Negative
Positive space is occupied with an object, person, etc. (Filled Space)
Negative space is unoccupied. It is defined by the edges of positive space. (Open Space)
One can’t exist without the other.

7. All rooms should have a balance of both positive and negative space.
Examples include the negative space (or empty space)
under this coffee table and . . .
the positive space (or filled
space) of the table.
Walk ways are negative space
and the furniture in a room
is the positive space.

11. To make a room feel more intimate:
Place furniture perpendicular to the walls as
room dividers.
2. Use furniture of different heights to break a
long, unobstructed view.
Group furniture according to areas of activity.
Use large furniture that sits directly on the floor.

12. 5. Use contrasting patterns, colors, and textures.
6. Use warm, dark colors.
7. Use natural lighting
and be careful when
using artificial lighting.
8. Use soft, rough
textures to absorb sound
and make the room
feel private and intimate.

13. To make a room seem more spacious:
Allow large openings between rooms so the
eye can travel to adjacent rooms.
2. Place large furniture
pieces near walls and
perpendicular to walls
so they do not break the
space into smaller segments.
Use small furniture,
patterns, and textures.
4. Use a minimum of
furnishings and accessories.

14. 5. Allow for empty space
between furniture or on walls.
6. Allow as much floor to show as possible. Use
furniture that stands on legs and glass or plastic items.
7. Use mirrors to help create the feeling of depth.
Unify space by using the same floor coverings throughout the house. Use floor-to-ceiling window treatments and patterns, textures, and colors that blend.

15. 9. Use light, cool colors.
10. Place lighting around
the outside of the room or
underneath beds or sofas
so they seem to float above
the floor.
11. Use wall-to-wall floor
treatment.
12. Use ceiling to floor
window

16. Positive and Negative Space Assignment
Take two pieces of paper- one full sheet and the other a half sheet. The colors should be complimentary.
Using the half sheet you will draw a design. Then cut out that design and place the cut out pieces on the other side of the full sheet.
This will illustrate the use of positive and negative space.