Interior design in Singapore is, at its most fundamental level, the layer of decoration on the interior of a building. In actuality, however, it is much more. Interior design is fundamentally about creating spaces that function well and improve the well-being of those who occupy them. Good interior design not only enhances the visual appeal of a space but also the quality of life as a whole. The practice of interior design combines art and science: it requires a comprehension of space, insight into the psychology of living in a space, and the imagination to use colour, shape, and texture to create a harmonious and aesthetically appealing environment.

The Seven Interior Design Principles are guidelines for constructing well-designed spaces. Interior designers incorporate these principles into every plan to create interiors that are both aesthetically pleasing and completely functional. Even though each principle is significant on its own, in a genuinely successful design, all seven principles function together and complement one another.

In this article, we will discuss important aspects of interior design. But keep in mind that design is always subjective, so norms can be broken.

1. Balance

Visual weight must be distributed evenly for interior design to be balanced. Visual weight is the degree to which an object appears weighty or substantial to the human eye. For example, large, solid, dark, or colourful objects will appear heavier than tiny, slender, translucent, or light-coloured objects. To attain equilibrium, divide a space into four equal quadrants. Each area should appear to contain approximately the same quantity of furnishings and objects.

2. Rhythm

When a repetitive pulse (or combination of rhythms) creates a musical pattern, this is referred to as rhythm. Rhythm in interior design creates a cohesive space with excellent flow through the use of repetition to guide the eye around the room. Repeated elements can be anything from a colour or pattern to a finish or material to a design or style.

3. Emphasis

In interior design, emphasis refers to the central element that serves as the focal point of a room. Such architectural elements as a fireplace or picture window are typically focal points. If a room lacks notable architectural features, a piece of art or piece of furniture can serve as a focal point.

The focal point should be the first object you observe when entering the room and serve as the space’s anchor. Once you’ve determined the room’s focal point, you can draw attention to it through furniture placement, colour, light, and texture.

4. Contrast and Variation

Contrast and variety prevent interiors from feeling monotonous and create visual interest. Contrast creates drama and attracts attention, whereas variety adds character and diversity. Create contrast by juxtaposing elements with pronounced differences. This effect can be achieved through the use of colour, shape, and negative space. In addition to unique furniture items, you can add variety to a room by employing various colours, fabrics, and finishes.

5. Scale and Proportion

Together, scale and proportion ensure that objects in a room appear to belong there and relate to one another. Scale describes the size of objects within a given space, whereas proportion describes the size of one object in relation to another.

6. Harmony and Unity

Unity and harmony create a cohesive space and ensure that all the elements in a room feel like they belong to the same whole. When an overarching theme is adhered to, which governs the design and ensures that all elements relate to one another, unity is achieved. Decorating a room with objects with similar colours, patterns, shapes, or styles will help create harmony.

7. Details

Incorporating the six principles mentioned above will create a well-organised space with good flow and equilibrium. However, the details are what bring a room to life. Details are simple to neglect, but they can significantly impact a space’s overall appearance and atmosphere.

Accents and embellishments on textiles, architectural accents, hardware, handles, and flourishes are examples of decorative details. Other less apparent details include common elements such as a lamp and electronic cables, outlet faceplates, and workmanship quality.