Have you noticed that whenever you look at something that is well designed, your eyes are immediately drawn to a particular point? This is no accident. It is by design. Behind this seeming piece of wizardry are three principles: Dominance, Focal Points, and Hierarchy.
Let us look at an example for each one.
Dominance:
Dominance is when a single element is so large and/or different compared to the rest of the design that it dominates. It grabs your attention. Famous examples include the London Eye that dominates the skyline of London or the Ashoka Lions that dominate the Indian Passport and other official documents.
Innov8 Vikhroli designed by Studio Gritt
Focal Points
Focal points are a set of elements that not only arrest your attention but also guide you from one part of a design to another. A prime example of this is the traditional Indian art of Rangoli, where dots are used as focal points for the swirls that crisscross them to form the pattern. A modern example is a restaurant or an open-plan workplace where pods of tables and chairs form a repetitive pattern.
Milano store interior designed by Studio Gritt
Hierarchy
Hierarchy is the arrangement of various elements of a design to demarcate different levels of importance. This can also be leveraged to lead a person through a journey using design. An example from the field of interior design is House 516, designed by Studio Gritt. The central kitchen finished in a grey exterior is the central hub of the house. The other aspects of the home connect to this space – forming a clear design hierarchy.
House 516 designed by Studio Gritt
Have you used any of these concepts in decorating your home or workplace? Let us know in the comments below or post a picture on Instagram. Your innovative idea might just be featured on our feed!