BalanceBalance The resolution of The resolution of

interacting forces, interacting forces, attractions or weights. attractions or weights. Also known as equilibrium.Also known as equilibrium.

There are no absolute rules There are no absolute rules for the creation of good for the creation of good design. However there are design. However there are suggested principles that suggested principles that lead to a greater amount lead to a greater amount of balance, such as…of balance, such as…

BalanceBalance Large objects and Large objects and

spaces appear spaces appear heavier than heavier than small ones, but a small ones, but a grouping of small grouping of small objects can objects can balance a large balance a large object.object.

BalanceBalance Opaque materials appear Opaque materials appear

heavier than transparent heavier than transparent materials.materials.

Bright, warm, dark-patterned Bright, warm, dark-patterned colors appear heavier than colors appear heavier than grayed, cool, light colors.grayed, cool, light colors.

BalanceBalance

Unusual and unique shapes Unusual and unique shapes and objects have importance and objects have importance beyond their size.beyond their size.

Textures and patterns hold Textures and patterns hold one’s attention longer than one’s attention longer than smooth, plain surfaces.smooth, plain surfaces.

BalanceBalance

Objects above eye level Objects above eye level appear to be heavier than appear to be heavier than objects placed below eye objects placed below eye level.level.

Contrasting textures, Contrasting textures, patterns, and colors have patterns, and colors have greater impact than close greater impact than close harmonies.harmonies.

BalanceBalance Brightly-lighted areas Brightly-lighted areas

attract more attention than attract more attention than dimly lit areas.dimly lit areas.

Strong contrasts add Strong contrasts add weight.weight.

Types of Balance…Types of Balance… SymmetricalSymmetrical

Formal BalanceFormal Balance One side of the room is the mirror image of the otherOne side of the room is the mirror image of the other Easiest balance to createEasiest balance to create

AsymmetricalAsymmetrical Informal BalanceInformal Balance Visual weights are equal, but elements are different in size, Visual weights are equal, but elements are different in size,

form, color, pattern, and spacingform, color, pattern, and spacing More lasting appealMore lasting appeal

RadialRadial Furnishings or patterns are arranged in a circular manner.Furnishings or patterns are arranged in a circular manner.

Symmetrical BalanceSymmetrical Balance

Symmetrical BalanceSymmetrical Balance

Asymmetrical BalanceAsymmetrical Balance

Asymmetrical BalanceAsymmetrical Balance

Radial BalanceRadial Balance

What kind of balance do you see?What kind of balance do you see?