In the third post of our series on different elements of home design, we’re going to take a look at a little-known element that can make a big impact: lines. You might not have thought about it before, but lines are present everywhere in your home. There are vertical lines, horizontal lines and curved lines—all can be combined and balanced to infuse interest and a sense of movement in a space.
Let’s take a closer look at lines and how they impact the overall look of a custom home.
Why Are Lines Important?
It’s easy to see how the past two elements we’ve covered—light and shapes—play a role in the design of a home, but lines may not be as apparent. The trick is to adjust your perspective and realize that lines are part of every interior space. Choosing a dominant line and/or the right combination of lines gives you control over a room’s movement, style and ambiance.
How Lines Impact Home Design
Lines impact custom homes in a variety of ways. These are often dependent on the type of line—straight, angled or curved—as well as how the lines play off (or combine with) other elements of home design. Here’s how each type of line plays a role:
- Straight lines: Whether horizontal or vertical, straight lines signify strength and stability. Heavily used in traditional-style homes, they can make rooms appear larger. Too many straight lines can be boring, but the right amount can create a smooth transition between spaces or elements.
- Angled lines: Diagonal, zigzag, geometric… there are several types of angled lines. You’ll often see them on stairs, walls or flooring and they are all about creating movement, energy and a focal point.
- Curved lines: Lastly, curved lines provide softness and elegance. Often used in a repeating pattern, curved lines can be flowing, circular or busy. They’re a great way to liven up a space that is predominantly using other types of lines.
Examples of Lines in Custom Homes
So, now that you know why lines are important and how they impact home design, what are some examples of them? Here are instances when you might see lines deliberately utilized in a custom home for a desired effect:
- Horizontal lines in moulding can firmly establish the boundaries of a room
- Vertical lines in pillars can create a sense of height and luxury
- Diagonal lines in a staircase can infuse a sense of anticipation
- Zigzag lines in the floor can combine with traditional lines to create an engaging pattern
- Curved lines on arch-shaped elements can bring elegance to a space
If you’re interested in learning about more elements of design, contact us today for a consultation.
