House & Home: December 05, 2021

Page 6

Design Recipes:

5 ways to create balance, symmetry in your space By Cathy Hobbs Ever wonder why some spaces feel off, while others have a sense of harmony? One key reason may relate to principles of balance and symmetry within the space. Symmetry allows for a harmonious feel through the use of identical elements, while balance can be created through dissimilar elements that blend well together. Looking for ways to create a sense of balance and symmetry? Here are some top tips. 1. Use elements that are oversized or large in scale to help ground a room. 2. Select a focal point in a room to use as an opportunity to create a sense of balance and symmetry.

3. Use identical selections such as artwork and case goods to help create harmony. 4. Create a sense of balance through elements that may be of different height and weight but blend well together. 5. Beyond use of balance and symmetry in larger spaces, use balance and symmetry in small ways such as through the use of vignettes.

Cathy Hobbs, based in New York City, is an Emmy Award-winning television host and a nationally known interior design and home staging expert with offices in New York City, Boston and Washington, D.C. Visit her website at cathyhobbs.com

Two identical art pieces are paired with two matching sideboards to create a symmetrical look.

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Photo courtesy Scott Gabriel Morris/TNS

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A cozy den space is enhanced by the use of identical side tables and lamps to create a sense of symmetry and balance.

Anidentical pairing of floor mirrors, floor lamps and artwork creates a sense of symmetry surrounding the fireplace in this living room space.

Photo courtesy Handout/TNS

Photo courtesy Handout/TNS

Two mirrors placed on either side of a long sofa are paired with identical side tables and lamps to create a sense of balance as well as a focal point in this living space. Photo courtesy Handout/TNS

Two identical overscale pieces of art placed on either side of a fireplace create balance as well as a key focal point in this living space.

SANTA BARBARA NEWS-PRESS REAL ESTATE

Photo courtesy Handout/TNS

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2021


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