31 Emphasis
The center of interest or focal point of a composition.
When speaking, emphasizing something means calling attention to a particular word or phrase. Similarly, in interior design, emphasis is used to direct attention to a specific design element—a freestanding object, a wall element, or a lighting fixture—within a volume. Emphasis can be used to allow for visual pause, to direct an occupant through a sequence of spaces, or to reduce or punctuate the acoustics of a room sonically.
Emphasis is an important tactic in interior design. By highlighting the room’s focal point, the designer can direct the viewer’s attention to a specific location. A space without a focal point can come across as scattered rather than cohesive or harmonious.
There are two methods of emphasis that a designer can deploy
Emphasis by Strategic Placement.
This method varies by project type. In a retail interior, clients may request to emphasize signage, products or customer service counters. A commercial office might emphasize elements in a lobby, or lead users toward meeting or event spaces. In a home, artwork, a large window or dramatic double height spaces function as the focal points.
Emphasis by Design Elements.
By deploying items that contrast color, pinpoint light, highlight form, texture, or patterns, the designer is able to draw the eye toward elements. An amazing view through a large opening, gallery, or mosaic-tiled wall is an example of emphasis by multiple elements. Acoustically, an intimate space lined with soft material can isolate sound and suggest comfort and rest.
There are several different ways to add emphasis
Emphatic
Natural or architectural focal point. Prominent and clearly featured.
Dominant
Any feature added to completely dominate the design of a space.
Subdominant
Smaller features such as rugs, curtains, and central furniture.
Subordinate
Includes accessories and small featured décor.
In the Teca House in Biella, Italy, designed by Federico Delrosso, the strategic placement of low furniture allows the large windows and the views of the surrounding hillside landscape to become the focal point.
Kuchar hung a chandelier grouping of thirty IKEA pendants at the headquarters of Farmer’s Fridge, a Chicago, Illinois start-up that brings fresh salads to vending machines around the city.