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.

Strategic placement involves highlighting signage, products, or specific areas based on the project type. Design elements such as color contrast, pinpoint lighting, and texture can also draw the eye towards focal points. Emphasis not only guides occupants ...

Get The Pocket Universal Principles of Interior Design now with the O’Reilly learning platform.

O’Reilly members experience books, live events, courses curated by job role, and more from O’Reilly and nearly 200 top publishers.