Showing posts with label interior styles. Show all posts
Showing posts with label interior styles. Show all posts

Thursday, March 3, 2016

Interior Design Styles

Interior Design Styles

At the start of any interior design project, you wonder what style should I choose? what style do I like? what style will look good in that space? what style will I feel comfortable with? Whether you're decorating a single room or a whole house, a bungalow or a mansion the style will change dependant on the existing space and what is appropriate for it.

The following list of interior design styles is not a definitive list but rather a selection of some of the most common or popular interior design styles, more styles exist and more are being created all the time. You should use this list to gain a basic understanding of common interior design styles and what is involved in each of them, how they differ and how to create them.

This article discusses the following types of interior design styles...

Modern Style Interior Design:



Modern Style Interior Design
Modern Style Interior Design

The creation of the modern interior design style is credited to a group of European designers that started the Bauhaus School of Design in Germany in 1919. The Bauhaus philosophy is that form and function should combine in all designs. Modern Style design is clean-lined and focuses first and foremost on function and avoids the excessive accessories and decorative elements seen in many other styles. Some people feel the modern design is too simple, harsh or cold, however when well planned it can promote a sense of calmness and simplicity to your home.

The modern style is ideal for apartments and small spaces as it maximizes space and create the impression that a room is larger than it actually is. Minimal textures and bold geometric forms, neutral colours accented with a single bold colour along with polished finishes and asymmetrical balance are key identifying features of modern style interiors.


To Recap, the main characteristics of the modern interior design style are...

  • Clean lined design 
  • Function before form. 
  • Avoids excessive accessories and decorations 
  • Minimal use of textures 
  • Asymmetrical balance in furniture and layout



    Contemporary Style Interior Design:



    Contemporary Style Interior Design
    Contemporary Style Interior Design
    The terms modern interior design and contemporary interior design are often used interchangeably, however there is a difference between the two. Contemporary interior design can only mean trendy looks that are in style at any current moment, while modern interior design refers to the specific geometrical, clean-lined style called modern. The fact that the modern style may also be a part of a current look or trend adds to the confusion between modern and contemporary.

    Contemporary interiors are comfortable and welcoming without being cluttered and dark and is a style that is equally appropriate for offices and stores, lofts and homes. A contemporary style home can be a quiet and comfortable retreat. The key identifying feature of a contemporary style interior design is line. Line can be used through the use of bold colour blocks, high ceilings, "square" edged furniture, linear wooden floors, floor mats, bare windows and geometric shapes in wall art and sculpture. The bare space, on walls, between pieces of furniture, and above in upper areas also become just as important as the areas filled with objects. Each piece stands out as individual and unique.

    Smooth, clean, geometric shapes are essential for contemporary style furniture pieces with upholstered furniture usually in black, white, or another neutral tone.These pieces should be simple and uncluttered, without curves or decoration. Sofas, chairs, and Ottomans usually have exposed legs with Beds and chairs usually having no trims or tassels. In conclusion, with contemporary interiors, less is more. Go basic, bare, bold, and structural with bespoke, unique and individual furniture.

    To Recap, the main characteristics of the contemporary interior design style are... 

    • Refers to in style or trendy looks. 
    • Basic, bare but bold. 
    • Negative space as important as objects 
    • Smooth, clean and geometric shapes essential. 
    • Bespoke and unique furniture.


    Minimalist Style Interior Design:



    Minimalist Style Interior Design
    Minimalist Style Interior Design

    Minimalist architecture became popular in the late 1980s in London and New York, where designers worked to achieve simplicity, using white elements, cold white or blue lighting, large spaces with minimum objects and furniture. The concept of minimalist design is to strip everything down to its essential quality and achieve simplicity. Minimalism simplifies living spaces to reveal the essential quality of buildings and conveys simplicity in attitudes toward life. It is inspired from the Japanese traditional design and the concept of Zen philosophy.

    The idea is not completely without ornamentation, but everything is as reduced down to a stage where you cannot remove anything further to improve the design, or without dis-improving it. The basic geometric forms, elements without decoration, simple materials and the repetitions of structures can represent a sense of order and essential quality. The movement of natural light in minimalist buildings reveals simple and clean spaces. In order to successfully implement a minimalist style storage is key in order to allow the space to remain minimal while still retaining the essential objects you use within that space. Minimalist kitchens are an excellent example of this, where clever use of space and hidden storage is regularly used.

    To Recap, the main characteristics of the minimalist interior design style are... 


    • Cool colours and white or blue lighting. 
    • Large open spaces with minimum furniture, essentials only. 
    • Reduced to ideal quantity. 
    • Storage is key to maintaining minimalism. 
    • Natural light used as a feature.


    Classic Style Interior Design:



    Classical Style Interior Design
    Classical Style Interior Design


    Classical interior design is based on order, symmetry and balance which relates to the ideals of the Greek and Roman empires. A primary element in classical style is the use of a focal point around which visual balance is achieved, for example a feature fireplace flanked on either side by matching armchairs with an ornate mirror above. The colour palette common to classical interior design style is often inspired by nature. A variety of yellows, blues, greens, browns as well as softer, muted hues like terracottas, greys and pinks are commonly used. When accenting with whites, choose off-white if you want to stay in keeping with a more authentic classical colour palette. Choose bright white if you want a slightly more contemporary feel instead.

    Fabrics used in classical interior design style tend to be elegant without being overly ornate or attention grabbing. Cotton, canvas and velvet are some commonly used in classic interiors. Natural flooring of wood, stone or marble works best in the classically styled environment as they relate well to the natural colour schemes used.

    The key identifying feature of the classic style is symmetry with each side of the room mirrored on either side of a central focal point. Columns are also a feature of classic design, relating back to Greek and Roman architecture, and as such vertical, tone-on-tone stripes on the walls or curtains can represent this. The use of classical ornamentation can also be used to identify a room as being of the classical style.

    To Recap, the main characteristics of the classic interior design style are... 

    • Order, symmetry and balance are key. 
    • Room ordered around a focal point, such as the fireplace. 
    • Natural colours and materials. 
    • Elegant fabrics.


    Art Deco Style Interior Design:



    Art Deco Style Interior Design
    Art Deco Style Interior Design

    The Art Deco style was developed following World War I, to offer people a new style for a new era. The excitement and optimism of post-war Europe and America formed the basis for this glamorous and elegant style of design. Art Deco furniture is streamlined in design. It was modern and sleek for the time while still remaining comfortable. Many designs of furniture used industrial materials such as bent chrome base that gives the piece a rocking effect. Wood pieces are highly lacquered in black, with woods used including exotic Brazilian rosewood, ebony, birds-eye maple, and light maple veneers. Upholstery is typically of velour, making the rigid structural form more comfortable.

    Because Art Deco interiors were relatively minimalist for the time, colours are used sparingly. Most colour schemes include black, combined with another colour such as green, red or white while accent colours are usually chrome and/or gold. Pale blue or dove grey were also commonly used to provide a softening effect against the harsh black.

    Art Deco lighting is extensive including ceiling lights, floor lamps, table lamps and wall lamps. Floor lamps include tall torchieres in wrought iron or chrome with hand blown glass shades. Some are also of black wrought iron. Table lamps of bright nickel with white, clear, frosted, or colourful glass shades are common. Wall lamps can be bronze, aluminium, steel, or silver plated base metal with opaque white or colourful glass shades. All this lighting is warm, usually orange or yellow in colour.

    Surfaces in the Art Deco style are generally sleek and clean, lacking any texture in order to contrast the more decorative and ornate objects and furniture within the space. Mirrors made of nickel, chrome, or silver are decorated with motifs of deer, peacocks, roses, and geometric shapes. Bronze sculptures are sleek covered with coloured or pearl beads. Desk sets of pen and pencil on a base are streamlined in design. Door handles and candlesticks moulded of nickel, chrome, or silver have woodsy or chevron shapes. Frosted glass or black and white marble are used for vases. Inlay is common and adds colour and design. Cameo glass vases show under layers of colour exposed by etching away top layers of white or clear glass. All these decorative and slightly over the top objects were a show of renewed wealth and prosperity after the harsh rationing endured during the war.

    To Recap, the main characteristics of the Art Deco interior design style are... 


    • Glamorous and elegant style. 
    • Industrial metals and lacquered wood. 
    • Black as a main or background colour. 
    • Numerous light sources used. 
    • Bold, colourful patterns. 
    • Intentionally, overly decorative.


    Retro Style Interior Design:



    Retro Style Interior Design
    Retro Style Interior Design

    Every few decades, old designs seems to make a comeback, but with a modern twist. This is referred to as the Retro style, and is an eclectic mix of old styles and new forms, or new forms with old materials and finishes. The post war fifties and psychedelic sixties saw a move towards brighter and bolder colours most likely as a backlash to doom and gloom of the war torn forties. Nowadays Retro interior designs can be described as taking a little bit of these features and bringing them back into the present in order to create a new style of interior design that is both modern and fun.

    As there is so much to choose from past styles, what you decide to include will ultimately be your own interpretation of the past, and will therefore be entirely unique and individual. During each of the past few decades there have been different materials, shapes, colours, artefacts, and gadgets that have left a lasting impression on all of us, some of which may be significant in the memories from our childhood and may therefore be more suited for your personal Retro style. Nowadays, anything from the 50's, 60's or even the 70's is fashionable again. However, because there are so many different ways to go about incorporating a Retro interior style into your home, it can be difficult to recognize it when you see it. The key identifying feature can therefore only be described as an old style with a modern twist.

    To Recap, the main characteristics of the retro interior design style are... 

    • Re imagined existing designs. 
    • Eclectic mix of materials. 
    • Classic objects used. 
    • Can be difficult to recognise.


    Urban Style Interior Design:



    Urban Style Interior Design
    Urban Style Interior Design

    Urban interiors feature non-traditional home materials and design features, often including objects that are more traditionally used in an industrial sense. The Urban style sees the use of galvanised steel, concrete floors, metal siding, exposed beams and unfinished surfaces to create a distinctly modern, bohemian look. Often random, non functional (in household terms) objects are included in Urban interiors to create an outdoor or industrial atmosphere. In more up scale urban interiors, however, the look is far more polished, with bespoke fixtures, sophisticated finishes and clever small space solutions, such as open floor plans that allow for multi-functional rooms.

    This alludes to the central function of urban interiors which is to create space, sometimes in surprising ways. Combination living/working spaces have become traditional in inner cities and industrial areas, often referred to as studio apartments. Renovated warehouses might feature a concrete floor for large scale artwork or production and an upper loft for a living space. Industrial building converted into high-rise apartments, up scale condominiums and mixed-use buildings are other innovations to urban living spaces and rather that fighting the existing industrial feature within these spaces Urban interior design embraces them.

    To Recap, the main characteristics of the urban interior design style are...


    • Use of industrial materials. 
    • Exposed structural materials used as a feature. 
    • Unique (non functional) objects used as features. 
    • Aims to create open space. 
    • Often seen in converted buildings.

    Country Style Interior Design:



    Country Style Interior Design
    Country Style Interior Design

    Country style interior design is cosy bearing the resemblance of cottage style. There are many various culturally different country style designs that have the features of the time and style that was traditional to those countries. Thus you may find such country style types as French country, English country, American country, Italian country or Tuscan, and Modern country. Each type of country style has taken characteristic features of the culture it was used in. English country is relaxed and comfortable incorporating many floral patterns as well as stripes and plaids. Natural light wood, such as oak, is used throughout the English country styles. Open space is not considered important in the country style with large furniture pieces often dominating a space with the walls often decorated with a variety of pictures, utensils or other objects.

    French country style is characterized by deep and bright colours - aubergine, lavender, yellow, azure blue. colours are built into floral and animal patterns. The furniture is robust and basic. Italian country style, also known as Tuscan is warm and rustic. It incorporates such colours as ochre, terracotta, golden yellow, and green. The flooring and fireplaces are made of natural stone. Unfinished wooden pieces and textured walls accentuate the rustic feel. American country style has its main feature in simplicity. The furniture can be stained, painted or unfinished. Modern country style has an updated look. Incorporating modern art, furniture or lighting into the traditional design makes it more up to date but still cosy and lived-in.

    To Recap, the main characteristics of the country interior design style are... 


    • Cosy and comfortable but sometimes cluttered. 
    • Traditional to the context, e.g. French Country, American Country etc. 
    • Natural and floral patterns used with plaids and stripes. 
    • Robust, bulky furniture. 
    • Rough finishes on materials.



    Rococo Style Interior Design:



    Rococo Style Interior Design
    Rococo Style Interior Design

    The Rococo style of interior design is flamboyant and rich with intricate and ornate features. Rococo style peaked during 1700 and 1780 in western Europe and the name Rococo means 'rocaille' in French, which is appropriate as the Rococo's ornate asymmetry was inspired by natural curves of trees, shells, clouds and flowers. Gold plasterwork is one of the key features of Rococo decorating style with lavishly decorated walls and ceilings featuring the contrast of pastels and gold. The use of mirrors was also a feature of Rococo Interiors and they were usually had intricately-shaped, gilded frames.

    Rococo furniture is made of mahogany wood or gilded and upholstered in leather, brocade or velour. It also has carved and sinuous silhouettes that compliment the wall and ceiling finishing, which strengthened the ornate theme. Rococo was known for such colours as yellow, pink, ivory and gold, azure blue and cream. The combination of pastels and gold is a signature mark of this style. Rococo style favoured curved lines so previously used asymmetrical square lines and forms were replaced with circular, oval, spiral and natural forms, even rooms were designed in oval shape or arranged to avoid square form.

    To Recap, the main characteristics of the rococo interior design style are... 


    • Flamboyant and rich. 
    • Lots of intricate, ornate, decorative features. 
    • Gold painted plasterwork contrasting with pastel wall colours. 
    • Multiple ornate mirrors commonly used. 
    • Expensive materials used in furniture, e.g. teak and mahogany. 
    • Curves, spirals and ovals are dominant.



    Georgian Style Interior Design:



    Georgian Style Interior Design
    Georgian Style Interior Design

    Early Georgian style was the tail-end of Queen Anne design, and this gradually became more severe in its lines and architectural detail. The style was copied from Ancient Greece and Rome, however a lot of Chinese design showed through in the interior. Chinese motifs like peonies and chrysanthemums were found in the fabric and Chinese porcelain and motif table lamps were common. colour schemes were pale and subtle cream, dusky rose, sage, pea green, powder blue. Florals were also found, and in more grander houses, gold and murals were the preferred wall coverings. Upholstery and curtains often had matching fabric.

    The Georgian interior design style is characterized by delicate furniture with elaborately carved cabriolet legs, ball-and-claw feet, broken pediments, ornate carvings, piercing and gilding. Fabrics were luxurious, with colours and patterns kept subtle. A royal style extended into common houses with cabriolet legs and claw feet on chairs and baths creating an almost throne-like feel. Mahogany slowly replaced walnut as the wood of choice. The fireplace was the heart of the room and was often fully outfitted with cast iron, carved pillars and medallions, and an opulent fire screen.

    To Recap, the main characteristics of the Georgian interior design style are... 


    • Copied from Ancient Greece and Rome but with Chinese influences. 
    • Decorative porcelain and luxurious fabrics as features. 
    • Motifs like peonies and chrysanthemums used. 
    • Colour schemes were pale and subtle. 
    • Cabriolet legs and claw feet on chairs and baths. 
    • Fireplace at the heart of the room.


    Victorian Style Interior Design:



    Victorian Style Interior Design
    Victorian Style Interior Design

    The Victorian style originated during the Victorian era and is often described as opulent and luxurious. Victorian style is the near opposite to minimalism, it is based on an excessive amount of ornate and flamboyant decorations, accessories, the more you have on display the better. But Victorian style also includes features in order to avoid clutter. The excessive decorative furniture and ornament are contrasted by plain floor and wall surfaces.

    The Victorian Style uses deep hues, pastels and neutral colours contrast the rich textures against the bright shades in upholstery and wall coverings. Exotic materials and heavy woods became available during Victorian era and were used extensively in the furniture of the time but today you can find pieces of Victorian style furniture in cheaper materials. This has seen a recent revival in the style with a type of modern Victorian style emerging.

    To Recap, the main characteristics of the Victorian interior design style are...


    • Opulent and luxurious with excessive decorations. 
    • Walls and floors kept plain to contrast decorative features. 
    • Decorative but uncluttered. 
    • Deep hues of pastel and neutral colours. 
    • Exotic woods used in furniture.
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    *If you enjoyed this you may also enjoy reading about Graphic Design Styles or Furniture Design Styles.



    Monday, February 29, 2016

    Interior Design Styles at a Glance

    Interior Design Styles

    At the start of any interior design project, you wonder what style should I choose? what style do I like? what style will look good in that space? what style will I feel comfortable with? Whether you're decorating a single room or a whole house, a bungalow or a mansion the style will change dependent on the existing space and what is appropriate for it.

    The above image of interior design styles is not a definitive list but rather a selection of some of the most common or popular interior design styles, more styles exist and more are being created all the time. If you want to learn more about any of the interior design styles shown above, read the full interior design styles article HERE.


    Saturday, February 20, 2016

    Want To Be An Interior Designer?

    Interior Design Career Information:

    Starting an interior design career can be a dream come true, but that doesn't mean you may not feel some anxiety about beginning this new phase of your life. Knowing what to expect in the industry can help minimize stress.While all this is good news for aspiring interior designers, students should prepare themselves to face a competitive job market. Getting the right interior design education and experience will give you an advantage.

    Interior Design Career Paths:

    If you find the variety, flexibility and creativity of an interior design job appealing, you'll be happy to know that this is no one-size-fits-all career. You can customize your interior design career to fit your interests and working style. Here are some things to consider.
    What does an interior designer do?
    What does an interior designer do?


    Self Employment vs. Design Firms

    Many interior designers are self-employed or do contract work on top of their jobs at design firms. When deciding where you want to work, you must evaluate the risks and rewards for yourself.

    Work Hours - If you are self-employed or work for a small firm, you are more likely to work flexible hours as you adjust your schedule around your clients' needs and deadlines. If you start your interior design career in a large design firm, you will probably have more predictable hours.

    Environment - Large design firms may have the resources for a more comfortable work environment and state-of-the-art equipment. They also have established connections with related firms and specialists. This can be an important consideration for anyone starting an interior design career.

    Clients - If you are self-employed, you may have more say in which jobs you take; however, you are responsible for finding your own clients and connections.

    As your interior design career progresses, you may discover a preference for one type of interior design over another. You can specialize in designing for corporate settings, restaurants, hotels, and hospitals or other health care facilities, or you may decide to focus on residential design. You may even narrow your focus further to kitchens or bathrooms, for example. If you like choosing colors and fabrics, but would rather not handle the nitty-gritty details, such as safety codes, you may want to be an interior decorator rather than an interior designer. Although many people use the terms interchangeably, interior decorating is less technical than interior design.

    Whether you prefer sticking to one interior design style that fits you perfectly, or you want to switch things up now and then, an interior design career gives you many options. Choose from types of interior design, such as residential, modern or Feng Shui interior design.

    Types of interior design...



    • Bathroom Design - Help your clients get the bathrooms of their dreams with designs that are elegant and restful as well as functional.
    • Corporate Interior Design - Design ergonomic and efficient work spaces that will project the right image for a company.
    • Exhibit Design - Create exhibits for clients ranging from art galleries to zoos, or help companies design exhibits for tradeshows and showrooms.
    • Feng Shui Interior Design - Use the principles of Feng Shui to get the energy flowing and create balance in an environment.
    • Green Interior Design - Develope expertise in designing spaces using products and methods that are environmentally friendly.
    • Health Care Interior Design - Help make health care centers such as hospitals, cancer centers, drug treatment centers, nursing homes, social services providers, doctors' offices, dental offices, etc. more efficient and welcoming through interior design.
    • Hotel Interior Design - Create inviting spaces for the hotel industry while considering several important factors such as: comfort, function, aesthetic appeal, concept and budget.
    • Japanese and Asian Interior Design - Bring the graceful, uncluttered aesthetic of Japanese and Asian interior design to clients in any geographic location.
    • Kitchen Design - Give your clients the kitchen they've always wanted. Develop expertise on appliances and efficient kitchen design.
    • Modern Interior Design - Incorporate the sleek look and practical principles of modern design into your work.
    • Residential Interior Design - Work with clients to improve the form and function of their living spaces, while helping them define and reflect their personal style.
    • Restaurant Interior Design - Develop design concepts that will contribute to positive customer experiences and the success of restaurant businesses.
    • Set Design - Use your design skills to work in film, television or theater.
    • Zen Interior Design - Create beautiful interior spaces using the minimalist style of Zen interior design.


    Learn more about interior design specialities to find the one that's right for you. When you're deciding on an interior design school, find out about training they offer in the interior design specialities that interest you. You may also be interested in the infographic below showing the history of interior design.



    Interior Design Drawing Techniques

    Interior designers develop their ideas from relationship diagrams into floor plans and then into perspective drawings to show clients. With 2D floor plans it can be difficult to visualise how they will look in reality so perspective drawings are ideal as they represent three-dimensional images on a two-dimensional picture plane.

    According to Leonardo da Vinci there are three aspects to perspective. The first has to do with how the size of objects seems to diminish according to distance. The second, is the manner in which colors appear to change the farther away they are from the eye. The third defines how objects should to be finished less carefully (blur) the farther away they are.

    There are numerous different techniques used to achieve perspective in drawings, of which, the main ones are listed below.


    One point perspective drawing:

    Interior Design Drawing Techniques
    One Point Perspective Drawing Samples

    One point perspective is so named because it uses a single vanishing point to draw an object. In one point perspective, perspective is created by showing the front and one side of an object with all the horizontal lines joining a single vanishing point. If more than two surfaces of an object need to be shown two point perspective can be used.

    In one point perspective, the front and back planes of the box always remain parallel to the picture plane. Only their scale changes as they recede into the distance. To create a template of a room for a one point perspective, follows these steps...
    • First, using a pencil and a ruler, lightly make an X by connecting the right top corner to the left bottom corner of your paper and by connecting the top left corner to the bottom right. Where these lines intersect will be your point that all depth lines will 'move' toward.
    • Next, lightly make a rectangle on the X, be sure to make the vertical lines and horizontal lines of the rectangle parallel to the sides of the paper. This will represent the back wall of the room.
    • To assist in gauging depth for items in the room, draw a line diagonally from either bottom corner of the rectangle to the opposite front corner of the page.
    • To create lines for floor boards or floor tiles you can lightly draw lines from equally spaced points at the bottom of the page straight to the centre point.

    Your room template should now look something like this...



    One Point Perspective Template
    One Point Perspective Template
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    Two point perspective drawing:

    Two Point Perspective Drawing Samples
    Two Point Perspective Drawing Samples
    Two point perspective, as the name suggests, uses two vanishing points toward which all perspective lines (non vertical) are drawn. When an object is drawn in this way it is even more realistic than drawn with a single vanishing point. To achieve a two point perspective effect follow these steps...

    • First mark two vanishing points on the paper (closer to the edges will allow for larger drawings) and faintly draw a line between them, we will call this is called the horizon line 
    • Next draw a vertical line above, through or beneath the horizon line (depending on the angle and position of the drawing you want) and in the centre between the vanishing points, this represents one side/edge of the object you are drawing 
    • Now draw faint lines from the ends of the vertical line to the vanishing points, these are the perspective lines. 
    • Next draw two more vertical lines either side of your original vertical and between the perspectives lines to represent the othe edges of the object. This creates two sides of the object. 
    • Next draw faint guidelines from the ends of these new lines to either vanishing point which will create the top of the object. It will now look like a cube in perspective. 
    • For more detail continue to add lines remembering they always move toward the vanishing points


    Oblique drawing:

    Oblique Drawing Perspective Sample
    Oblique Drawing Perspective Sample
    Oblique drawing is a crude '3D' drawing method but it is the easiest to master. Oblique is not really a '3D' system but a 2 dimensional view of an object with 'forced depth'. When using oblique the side of the object you are looking at is drawn flat. The side views are drawn in at a 45 degree angle. Standard practice is to 'foreshorten' the side views to provide a more convincing view of an object. To foreshorten the side views, the objects side measurements are halved. For example, if the sides are 50 mm long, but they will be drawn in at 25 mm long. To achieve an oblique perspective effect follow these steps...

    • Draw the front of the object straight on as you would do in a front plan view. 
    • Now extend guide lines out from the top left, top right and bottom right corners ar 45 degrees. 
    • Measure along the bottom right guidline to the distance of the width/depth of the object you are drawing and mark that point 
    • From that point draw a perpendicular line up until you meet the top right guide line you drew earlier. This perpendicular line should be parallel to the left and right edges of your front face. 
    • Now, from where this line intersected the top right guide line draw a straight line across towards the top left guide line parellel to the top edge of your front face. Stop when you touch the top left guide line. 
    • This should complete the basic shape in oblique view. If there are angles/areas of the shape additional to the basic shape or removed from this shape, as with the chair image above, then continue to block them out using the base shape as a guide.


    Isometric drawing:

    Isometric Perspective Drawing Samples
    Isometric Perspective Drawing Samples


    Isometric projection is another form of graphical projection use for the visual representation of three-dimensional objects in two dimensions. The term isometric comes from the Greek for "equal measure", reflecting that the scale along each axis of the projection is the same In any isometric representation, all measurements are to scale, no matter how far close or how far in the distance they are in view. In an isometric perspective, you have a 3D view where, no matter where you are in that space, the object scaling retains its value and doesn't change.

    Isometric projection can be visualized by considering the view of a cubical room from an upper corner, looking towards the opposite lower corner. The x-axis is diagonally down and right, the y-axis is diagonally down and left, and the z-axis is straight up. Depth is also shown by height on the image. Lines drawn along the axes are at 120 degrees to one another (diagonal lines will therefore be at 30 degrees to the horizontal and at 60 degrees to the vertical).

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    Axonometric drawing:

    Axonometric Perspective Drawing Samples


    Axonometric, or planometric as it is sometimes known, is a method of drawing a plan view with a third dimension. It is used by interior designers, architects and landscape gardeners. Axonometric works by drawing a plan view at a 45 degree angle with the depth added vertically. All lengths are drawn as their true lengths unlike when you use oblique. This gives the impression that you are viewing the objects from above. One advantage of axonometric is that circles drawn on the top faces of objects can be drawn as a normal circle.

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    *If you enjoyed this article you may also find our Interior Design Tips and Interior Design Styles articles useful.

    Interior Design Room Layout Tips

    It would be impossible to cover all aspects of room layout in Interior Design right here, it would take a full course in the subject and a library of good books to fully explain all the theories, techniques and approaches involved. What we can do is look at the basics of room layout focusing on the function of the room and the activities that take place there in order to meet the needs of the potential user, a beginner's guide to interior design room layout if you will. As each room/space functions differently and involves different activities we have created a separate section for each space, although there will be some overlap with generally accepted rules appearing on a number of occasions.

    Select the room you wish to learn interior design layout tips about from the selection below.



    Kitchen Layout:



    Kitchen Layouts
    Kitchen Layouts
    The kitchen is normally one of the most used rooms in a house and an efficient kitchen can be key to having a happy life. But what makes an efficient kitchen? You start with the work triangle. The kitchen work triangle is one of the most researched and applied ergonomic principles around and is the centerpiece of most kitchen layouts. The three points in the trinagle are the Refrigerator, the sink and the oven.The idea of the kitchen work triangle are to position these three work points the most efficient distance apart with minimal traffic through the work zone between them.
    If you place these too far away from each other you waste a lot of steps while preparing food while if they are too close to each other you create cramped kitchen workspace which is uncomfortable to use.The rules to the work triangle are...
    • Each leg of the triangle should be between 4ft and 9ft
    • The total of all three legs should be at least 12ft and no more than 26ft
    • Nothing, such as cabinets, presses, storage units or islands, should intersect a leg of the work triangle
    • Household traffic, such as pathways between rooms, should not flow through the work triangle
    Aside from the kitchen work triangle the other key consideration when designing a kitchen is storage. More than any other household space the kitchen requires a large amount of storage space and depending on the style of the design how you use/create space for storage will have a large bearing on how the space is laid out. Work space, such as counter-tops is also an important factor to consider in kitchen design and it is directly related to storage space as it is usually floor cabinets which provide the counter-top work-space that we use. So while placing all the cabinets and units together on one wall would provide excellent storage there would be little or no worktop space.


    Living Room Layout:



    Living Room Layouts
    Living Room Layouts
    The living room is another much used room and how it is laid out will depend on what type of person you are or people you are designing for. For example will the television be the focal point of the room? or will it be the fireplace? If it is a family then perhaps they all like to sit together in the evenings and watch T.V. or perhaps if it is a couple then maybe they would like to cosy up in front of the fire? These are the types of questions that need to be asked and answered when laying out a living room space. The space needs to be personal to the people using it so it requires a people specific approach.

    I will break this approach down into two simple stages. First choose a suitable focal point and second break the space into sub sections based around a specific activity. So first things first, the focal point, what is a focal point? A focal point is a space or an object around which other spaces or objects are orientated. So if it was a television, for example, the seating will face towards it so people can watch it while seated, simple! Other suggested focal points are... 

    • a fireplace, preferably ornate or bespoke 
    • a window with interesting/scenic views 
    • a sound system for music lovers 
    • large doorways into other interesting spaces/outdoor spaces 
    • a piece of art like a paiting or sculpture 
    • a coffee table to sit around and chat 

    Secondly consider creating activity specific sub sections or 'mini spaces' within the living room/space. Whether designing fpr yourself or others always try to imagine the activities that are most likely to take place in that room and create a space to accommodate it. These may be things like...

    • a group of chairs around a coffee table to create a discussion space 
    • two armchairs either side of a fireplace for a couple to relax and chat 
    • a single armchair beside a lamp where one could relax and read a book 
    • a sofa in front of the TV where a a group can sit and watch a movie 
    • a collection of bean bags on a large floor rug where kids could play


      Dining Room Layout:



      Dining Room Layouts
      Dining Room Layouts
      The traditional idea of the formal dining room is changing with modern lifestyles. The dining room is no longer the rarely used special occassion space it once was and it is becoming more and more popular for people to throw diner parties at home for friends and family. As lifestyle trends go, open plan living has been one of the biggest departures from the norm in recent times. In smaller homes and apartments it is common for the dining space to become part of the open living area and kitchen-dining or living-dining spaces are even more common than the traditional stand alone dining room.
      In any open plan area you have to decide how to use and divide the space for different functions. Done in the right way, it can be a very sociable way to live because when you haven't got walls, you're free to style your open space in any way you like. It then becomes 'your' space as opposed to just 'a' space. In an opne plan kitchen-dining or living-dining space keep the following factors in mind...
      • Ventilation -fit a decent extractor to fan avoid smells drfiting from the kitchen space 
      • Noise - maximize soft furnishings and minimize hard surfaces to reduce noise levels. Also it's often wise to partition areas to create quiet zones. 
      • Storage - with fewer walls there's less storage space. Think laterally and use every available opportunity for storage to maximize storage while still retaining the minimalist look. Co-ordinating the colour of the furniture and the walls will unite the room making it look more spacious. 
      • Pathways - position furniture in a way that creates obvious paths from one space to another. 
      In terms of the physical dining table itself, a round table works best for informal dinners, as there's no head of the table. But if you'll usually seat more than 6, avoid large circular tables as they will take up too much space and it becomes difficult to converse across the table. Similarly, square tables really only work for four people. In the end the traditional rectangular dining table is best. Whatever shape you do choose, be sure to check that there's enough space to pull out the chairs and to move around it comfortably. If space is very limited consider a corner table or a small table that fits into a bay window or other recess.



      Bedroom Layout:



      Bedroom Layouts
      Bedroom Layouts
      Of all the rooms in the house your bedroom is yours and your comfort should be the primary concern, after all we spend on approximately one third of our lives in bed! With this in mind we begin with the bed. The bed head should be placed against a wall, allowing for access from both sides. Don't forget to plan for bedside tables too, these should have room for reading lamps, books and magazines, and other comforts. The position of the bed also depends on the shape of the room and where the windows are, if possible position the bed where it will get direct sunshine in the mornings (to help you wake) but where it gets no direct sunshine in the evenings (to allow you to sleep). Of course if this is not possible an alarm clock and some black out blinds will solve both those issues! It is nice, though, to work with the natural cycle of things if possible.

      It is also worth mentioning that just because you're in your bedroom doesn't mean you're going to sleep. What many people want from their bedrooms is somewhere that they can go, shut the door, sit down or lie in bed and just generally enjoy a space that's calm, comfortable and private. You may want to be able to see the sky, trees or any view out of the window.

      Next you need to plan where to put your storage units for clothes as after all the bedroom is where we get dressed and undressed every day.Firstly ensure that wardrobe doors and drawers can be easily opened without hitting the bed or other furniture. Where storage space is limited consider open shelving and beds with integrated storage. Mirrors and plain, light colours will also help to make smaller spaces feel more spacious.



      Bathroom Layout:



      Bathroom Layout
      Bathroom Layout
      The current trend with bathrooms has been toward larger, more luxurious bathrooms where we can relax, pamper and feel revatalised. The first part of creating a distinctive bathroom is to find a focal point for your bathroom as you would with a living room. Freestanding tubs from antique claw foot tubs to new bathtubs in sculptural shapes provide great focal points as do large ornate mirrors over the sink.

      If you have the space, define different zones in your layout. You can create defined areas for bathing, dressing, grooming or lounging. The following are a few of the minimum measurements to keep in mind as you brainstorm your layout...


      • Leave a minimum of 12 inches (30 cm) between a bathtub or shower and the other fixtures like toilets or sinks
      • In bathroom terms larger, free standing, plumbed-in pieces are referred to as fixtures while taps, shower heads, handles, etc. are referred to as fittings
      • A toilet needs a minimum of 4 feet, 6 inches from the wall it's mounted against to the opposite wall and a minimum side to side measurement of 30 inches (76 cm)
      • A minimum of 6 feet (1.8 m) of counter space is necessary to accommodate 2 sinks. Also make sure to allow at least 28 inches (71 cm) centered at each sink for a person to stand comfortably and have plenty of elbow room.
      • To take off the cold edge, that the ceramic tiles, fixtures and fittings can create furnish your bathroom for relaxation by dressing the windows and filling the bathroom with candles and unique trinkets (without cluttering)



        Home Office Layout:

        Home Office Layout
        Home Office Layout
        Whether you need a full time office to run your business or an efficient corner to pay bills, answer emails and lay out the family schedules, the Home Office design will help you boost your creativity and productivity. Finding a working area within your home can be difficult, but whether you need a full-time office, hobby workshop or a bill-paying spot, a dedicated space makes life so much easier. If you're working from home consider converting a loft, garage or basement room but, on a smaller scale, you might give up a spare bedroom, or create some space within the bedroom, hall or landing.

        Locating the office in a dedicated room, such as a spare bedroom or attic, gives you the luxury of privacy and being able to shut the door on your work at the end of the day. You won't have to worry about furniture blending in to an existing scheme, so can take your pick from the wide variety of styles and designs available. A good tip is to position the desk so that direct sunlight doesn't fall on to the computer screen as that will be an immediate annoyance.

        Whatever the nature of your work you're bound to need a desk, chair, and storage, plus a computer and printer. Ideally, you'll require an area of around 180 x 70cm to work in, plus room for a chair, but space-saving solutions such as corner and hideaway desks make it perfectly possible to do your job in a far smaller space. Whatever your budget the one thing you shouldn't skimp on is a good office chair, as you'll likely be spending a great deal of time at your desk. Finally, remember to keep the home in your Home Office Design. Extend your personality into your unique home office, after all it is 'your' office and it is all about creating a space that you are comfortable working in.

        *Having read this you also find our Interior Design Styles or Interior Design Drawing articles useful.

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