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Form: shape, positive & negative space
photo courtesy Gordon
International
Form is the dimensional outline
of an object or the defining boundaries of positive and negative
space. It is easy to think in black and white when trying to
comprehend form. What would a silhouette of an object look like?
Line, curve, angle, grid, visual weight, construction, and balance
inherent to an object or space are what define a dimensional
outline.
Overview
- Realize the Space
Use of form and its attributes
affects the inhabitants by reaction. Functionality and every
day use can be portrayed with clean linear lines, smooth surfaces
and minimalistic geometric intersections. Formal atmospheres
tend to have constrained and elaborate shape. A deep, cushy leather
sofa will work best in an informal atmoshpere, while a firm,
hard-back chair will work will in a living room or dining room.
Coziness and a feeling of security are created using long horizontals
with broken verticals and furnishings that are comfortable, yet
firm.
Learning to see the space or object in positive and negative
space will bring about rhythm, harmony and balance. Instead of
looking at the space, try to see the space. Realize its edges,
interplay, and flow between objects. Optical illusion can make
a room appear taller by adding shorter objects, and smaller by
breaking the space up into smaller spaces.
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What
do you see above? Are you seeing positive?
Contrast / Juxtaposition
A dynamic space with overall
balance can be had by providing contrast between its elements:
thick with thin, hard with soft, linear with curvilinear, horizontal
with vertical, open with enclosed, and large with small.
Likewise, juxtaposing different
shapes with regard to the overall space creates action or lack
there of. Engage the occupants with ornate details or create
establishment with grids and symmetry.
Form Lingo: (expressions
often used with color)
The following terms may help
to communicate the intent of the designer internally or to a
client.
Curvilinear - free-flowing curves, rounded edges, ellipticals
and concentric circles
Dynamic - profiles having the quality of action, rhythm
or flow among objects within a space. Opposite of Static.
Juxtaposition - abrupt differences in visual representation
of positive and negative space, among objects and their intrinsic
values like weight, edges or surfaces
Linear - having the quality of repeating shape or straight
lines
Static - profiles that are still, stationary, or inactive.
Opposite of Dynamic.
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