Space is one of the design elements in architecture, along with line, colour, point, and volume. The point is the most important of these elements because it represents a location in space. It is arranging surrounding elements around itself and controlling its field in space. Another design element is line, which creates an extended point with length, direction, and position. A line that is extended in a direction other than its intrinsic direction becomes a plane, which is also a design element. The space can also be defined by other design elements.
Spatial design includes the design of the space. One of the most important issues in architecture is the design of space in accordance with design principles.The basic design principles to be applied in the design of the space are rhythm, proportion, emphasis, balance, and unity.
Similar to the rhythm of a musical composition, the spaces between repeating elements can cause a sense of rhythm to form. Designers can create rhythms that are random, regular, alternating, flowing, or progressive.
Scale and proportion are both size-related design elements. The size of one object in relation to the other objects in a design is referred to as scale. The size of one part of an object in comparison to other parts of the same object is defined as proportion. Scale and proportion are always used by designers to depict or distract from the ideal.
The design principle of emphasis is intended to stand out. In general, this refers to the most important message that the design is intended to convey. Emphasis can also be used to minimise the impact of a particular element.
Some design elements are heavy, while others are light. The arrangement of these elements should create a sense of balance.
Balance is classified into two types: symmetrical and asymmetrical. Elements in symmetrical designs are balanced on either side of an imaginary centerline. Asymmetrical balance contains elements with varying weights. The elements are arranged in relation to a non-centered line within the overall design.
Unity is the design principle that unites all other principles in the design, allowing each element to coexist and form. It is what gives a design a sense of unity despite the fact that its internal components vary in scale, proportion, or contrast.
