principles and elements of design

emphasis

center of interest; creates focal point

proportion

relationship between flowers, foliage, and container

scale

relationship between completed design and its location/surroundings

repetition

act of duplicating colors, size, or shape of plant material

rhythm

apparent flow of lines, textures, and colors that express a feeling of motion

balance

provides arrangement with impression of being stable; gives "visual weight" to the arrangement; symmetrical and asymmetrical

harmony

achieved when all parts of the design are blended in a pleasing relationship; when all are suitable for the designs intended appearence

unity

achieved when all parts of the design combine without noticeable separation; the whole is more important than its parts

line

visual path the eye follows to produce motion; give balance, rhythm, and motion; vertical, horizontal, and curved

form

overall shape of the design; prevents tired and monotonous designs ; closed and open form

space

open areas around individual components in a design; positive and negative space

texture

physical surface qualities of plant materials; materials with similar materials should be combined

pattern

repeated combination of line, form, color, texture, and/or space; any element used more than once

size

physical dimensions of the line, form, or space

color

light reflected off objects; strong emotional and psychological impact

fragrance

sweet or pleasing odor; heightens our awareness; increases sensory enjoyment; triggers memories