There are three types of balance that can be incorporated in home design; symmetrical, asymmetrical, and radial. Symmetrical balance focuses on the mirroring of objects, such as a coffee table in between two identical love seats. Radial balance focuses on like objects placed around a center piece, such as identical chairs surrounding a dining table. Asymmetrical or informal balance uses similar colors, forms, and lines to achieve balance and does not have mirroring qualities.
While there’s nothing wrong with symmetrical design, asymmetry can add visual interest to a space that just cannot be created with symmetry. Asymmetrical design is unpredictable and more interesting, as it forces you to scan the room in its entirety to pick up on the different patterns and furniture used.
Asymmetry is ideal for the rooms in your home that you want to evoke a casual and personal feeling, instead of formal. This works great in living rooms, where you’re more likely to have mismatched furniture and textiles. In the room below, you’ll notice that the couch does not have two end tables, but instead, one end table and a lamp to give it the asymmetrical look. It also lacks a second mirroring accent chair to place an emphasis on the sliding glass doors leading to the balcony.
This look can be big or small in effect. It’s great for when you want to create a statement around a piece of furniture or a fireplace, and it can be small, such as the size of picture frames or where furniture is placed. In this coastal living room, you’ll notice the placements of furniture, notably the TV stand, and that there is zero symmetry in its design.
One thing to note with this type of balance is that you should try to make sure that you’re repeating colors, lines, and shapes to keep a cohesive look and feel. And while asymmetry focuses on informal balance, you do need to have a visual balance in your design, which can be achieved by using a central focal point to anchor your room.
How do you include asymmetry in your home’s décor?
