Ever walked into a room and immediately felt at ease, or the opposite—like something just didn’t sit right? That’s the magic (or mishap!) of interior design. What you might not know is that there’s a method to the madness. Interior designers follow key principles to bring balance, harmony, and functionality to every space they touch.
These are called the 7 Elements of Interior Design—and they’re the secret sauce to creating rooms that just work.
In this blog series, I’ll be diving into each of these seven elements: space, line, form, light, colour, texture, and pattern. Mastering these elements is essential because they shape not only how a room looks but how it feels and functions. When these elements are in harmony, a room feels balanced, comfortable, and welcoming. If they’re out of sync, well…you’ll notice.
So, why should you care? Whether you’re a property owner looking to create a wow factor for potential buyers, an investor with a portfolio of Serviced Accommodation, or just someone looking to refresh your home, understanding these elements can make all the difference in creating a space that attracts, impresses, and functions beautifully.
Let’s start with the foundation of it all: Space.
Space: The Foundation of Interior Design
When it comes to interior design, space is the first thing we need to get right. It’s not just about cramming a room with furniture; it’s about how the space feels and how it works for you day-to-day.
You know that first impression when you walk into a room? The one where you immediately think, “Ah, this feels open and calm,” or “Yikes, it’s a bit tight in here!” That’s space talking.
First impressions count, don’t they? And space is often the first thing you notice when entering a room.
Physical vs. Perceived Space: How It Shapes Your Experience
Designers think about space in two ways: physical and perceived.
• Physical space is the actual square footage—how big or small the room is in real life.
• Perceived space is how the room feels—does it seem more open or more cramped than it actually is?
A skilled designer can manipulate both physical and perceived space to create a room that feels comfortable and functional, no matter the size.
Now, you might be thinking: “To make a room feel bigger, shouldn’t I just use less furniture?” Actually, less is not always more! Fewer, larger-scale pieces that are well-proportioned and placed strategically can actually make the most of your space, giving it a more expansive and intentional feel. Trust me, it’s not just me who thinks this!
Positive and Negative Space: Striking the Right Balance
Here’s a quick design tip: positive space is the area filled with furniture, decor, and other objects, while negative space is the empty area around those items.
Finding the sweet spot between the two is key. Too much furniture? The room feels cluttered. Not enough? It can feel bare and cold.
This idea isn’t just for interiors—any graphic designers out there will know the importance of white space on a page. It’s all about giving the eyes room to breathe.
The same goes for your walls. You don’t have to hang art on every single one. Letting the room ‘breathe’ a bit will make it feel more inviting, and your guests will appreciate it!
Furniture Placement: Maximising Space in Any Room
Whether you’re working with a compact apartment or a sprawling home, smart space planning is crucial. In smaller homes, clever design can create the illusion of more space. For larger rooms, it’s all about thoughtful furniture arrangement that helps define different areas without the need for physical dividers.
Finding the flow in a room is just as important as the decor itself. A good layout guides people naturally from one area to another, making the space feel intuitive and welcoming. And let’s be honest, if your guests or tenants feel comfortable moving through a space, they’re going to want to come back again and again. Happy guests = fewer voids = more money in your pocket!
Why Space Matters
In short, space is the backbone of any good interior design. When you understand how to use it effectively, you can create rooms that are not only visually stunning but also incredibly functional and comfortable for everyday living. It’s about making the space work for you, not the other way around.
Top tip: Every space must have a purpose. Whether it’s designed for relaxation, work, or socialising, ensure it’s optimised for that function to get the best value out of it.
What’s Next?
Now that we’ve covered space, get ready for the next blog in the series, where we’ll talk about line—the element that defines shapes and guides the eye around a room. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer when it comes to creating structure and flow.
Ready to Make Your Space Work For You?
If you’re looking to transform your property—whether it’s a rental, HMO, or a property to sell—WildKind Interiors can help you maximise your space and create environments that leave a lasting impression. Let’s chat and turn your space into something special.