The Science of Interior Design: How to Create Spaces That Feel 'Just Right'

When most people think about interior design, they often picture us designers picking out colours, plumping cushions, and choosing curtains. But there is so much more to it than that!

Behind every beautiful, functional space is a careful balance of art and science. We adhere to seven design principles to create rooms that not only look amazing, function well, but also ‘feel right.’

Great design doesn’t happen by accident—it’s about bringing these seven principles together to create harmony and flow:

1. Balance
   Balance is about making a space feel steady and grounded. It’s achieved by spreading out the visual weight, whether symmetrically (think matching bedside tables) or asymmetrically (pairing a large sofa with a couple of smaller chairs). Without balance, a room can feel a bit chaotic.

2. Unity
   Unity ties everything together, making a space feel cohesive. By sticking to a consistent palette throughout a property or repeating certain materials, you create a sense of harmony. When all the elements work together, the space feels intentional and well thought-out.

3. Rhythm
   Rhythm in design helps guide the eye through a room. It’s like creating a beat for your space using repetition—think matching pendant lights over a kitchen island or a series of artworks along a hallway. It keeps things flowing smoothly.

4. Emphasis
   EVERY room needs a standout feature – we call it a focal point. This could be a fireplace, an oversized piece of art, or a dramatic piece of furniture. This focal point demands attention, and gives the room a sense of purpose, keeping things visually interesting.

5. Scale and Proportion
   This is a VERY important one, especially for UK properties as they tend to be smaller in size. Scale is all about getting the size of things right, while proportion ensures they look good together. For example, a large dining table might overwhelm a tiny dining room, just as a small coffee table might feel lost in a spacious lounge.

6. Contrast
   Contrast brings depth and excitement to a room by playing opposites off each other. Light vs. dark, rough vs. smooth, modern vs. traditional—this mix keeps a space from feeling flat and boring.

7. Details
   It’s the little things like the trim on curtains, the handles on cabinets, or the perfect rug that pulls everything together. Details might not seem like much on their own, but they’re the finishing touches that makes a space feel beautifully complete.

“We do more than pick out cushions and curtains”

Here’s the thing: interior designers are about so much more than picking out colours, and fabrics and plumping cushions. We actually solve problems, make spaces work better, and bring your vision to life.

• Practicality Matters: We delve into your lives and carefully consider how you live and use your space, ensuring it’s becomes the beautiful, comfortable, and functional space you require.

• It’s Science Too: Colour psychology, lighting, and ergonomics all play a role in making spaces feel just right.

• Behind-the-Scenes Planning: It’s always best to get us on board from the very beginning. We often deal with layouts, electrical plans, and finishes, so you don’t have to worry about the details.

Interior design is the perfect blend of creativity and science. By combining the seven principles of design, we create spaces that are cohesive, functional, and beautiful.

So, next time you step into a space that just feels right, know that it’s not magic—it’s design done well by one of us!

If you’re ready to make your home one of those spaces, let’s chat about how I can help. Email me hello@stylingspaces.co.uk