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A Faux Fix
When an Interior Designer Becomes Your Therapist By Laura Paul
Kusmer suggests homeowners use shapes, textures, lighting and art in a home to improve the mood.
- Shapes – Round shapes motivate people to be more social and active. Round tables work well in the dining room. Squares have boundaries and should be used for desks and spaces such as home offices where people need to be focused. Architectural details such as crown molding can accentuate the shape of a room. Different shaped decorative objects such as plants, lamps and clocks inject a room with life.
- Textures – Individuals may consider texture when defining a space in the home just as they would vary fabric in a wardrobe. Some people love leather furniture, while other people prefer rougher textures. A person who prefers silk would gravitate toward things that have a smooth feel and a glow, Kusmer says. Light plays off of silk. An individual might choose velvet for an armchair. Needlepoint and fabric pillows accent a bed or window seat just as earrings compliment a woman's outfit.
Lighting and Color – "People spend a tremendous amount of time icking just the right color for a room and artwork for the walls, but they don't spend money on lighting so they don't see any of the colors or artwork," Kusmer says. Ambient, accent, task and decorative lighting are all important. Kinetic light, or moving light as from a candle or fireplace, assumes an ancient and powerful symbolism, reminding people of where they came from. Proper lighting brings out the vibrant color schemes throughout the home. Orange is known as the color of delight and enthusiasm, making it an ideal color for entertaining and the dining areas. Green is the color associated with balance and harmony. Red is the color of primal energy, of passion and stamina. - Art
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