The Interior Design Reference & Specification Book

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THE INTERIOR DESIGN REFERENCE + SPECIFICATION BOOK

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Chapter 5: Proportions of a Room

In the disciplines of art and design, proportion is concerned with one of the funda-

mental characteristics of shape: the aspect ratio of width to length. Signicantly, the

qualication of the proportion of a shape does not concern itself with dimensions.

When designers speak of the proportions of a shape, they are usually discussing the

relative width and length of a rectangle, but they can also address the proportion

of an oval, or even complex and irregular forms such as the proportions of a kidney-

shaped swimming pool. Most typically, proportions are considered when making de-

sign decisions about a series of related elements. For example, the designer should

consider the proportion of the wall space between windows as well as the proportion

of the windows themselves when designing an interior elevation. The relative propor-

tion of the shape of the wall and the shape of the window can be construed as a

more complex proportional relationship. Proportion is considered in two dimensions

in drawing and painting and when composing a plan or an elevation.

INFLUENCE OF PROPORTION

Rooms of Different Shapes

For interior design, the proportion of a space or an object is qualied by the relative length of

three variables: width, length, and height. The character and use of a room is strongly inu-

enced by the proportion of the space. A room that is relatively long, narrow, and tall is much

different in character than a room that is square in plan with a low ceiling. The relative propor-

tion of a room qualies whether a space is primarily meant as a path or a place. Square rooms

are the most geometrically stable, but are difcult to furnish and thus used for ceremonial

functions when large or as threshold spaces when small. Rectangular spaces with proportions

of less than 1:2 are the most common shape of place-rooms since they can accommodate a

variety of furniture arrangements and can be easily aggregated along circulation armatures.

Long, narrow rooms are typically circulation spaces, whether functional corridors or spaces for

processional rituals and ceremonies.

The pure geometry of a

square room can demand

a symmetrical arrange-

ment of furnishings.

A rectangular space can

be broken up into different

zones to accommodate

distinct seating areas.

The formality of a tall and

long room is ideal for both

work and entertaining.

SQUARE RECTANGULAR TALL

Job:02-30056 Title: RP-Interior Design Reference and Speciﬁcation

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Job:02-30056 Title: RP-Interior Design Reference and Speciﬁcation

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(RAY)

Job:02-30056 Title: RP-Interior Design Reference and Speciﬁcation

#175 Dtp:216 Page:78

076-083_30056.indd 79 3/4/13 7:49 PM