The placement of two or more different design elements side by side to create an interesting effect.

Helpful Advice

Contrast is most effective when applied strongly, when it draws the eye to a focal point in the design; ineffective use of contrast may cause confusion.

Contrast is a foundational and fundamental design principle. Also referred to as juxtaposition, contrast ensures that the elements of a room draw the eye while still maintaining a cohesive vision. It is important to know where and how to use contrast in an interior project. Contrast can make a room memorable or more impactful, add visual interest, and simultaneously pull together parts of a space. Contrasting elements (several are outlined below) add character to a design. Placing contrasting objects together can emphasize their differences.

Color is often the easiest way to add contrast to a room or space. The juxtaposition can be in the form of a color’s brightness, temperature, intensity, or hue. Other methods include using different design styles, mixing furniture from different historical periods (i.e., placing an antique dresser in a contemporary hotel room), or applying varied textures. As a rule, a designer should consider binary opposites (of a surface or element, smooth and rough textures, rounded with geometric shapes or in scale) as a starting point for exploring juxtaposition of elements.