breathing room - for function & for looks

The Japanese concept of "ma" is the intentional use of negative space to create balance and harmony.

What is not is just as important as what is.

In interior design, "ma" involves carefully considering the placement of objects to allow for breathing room, ensuring that spaces feel tranquil and uncluttered.

When I am meeting with clients, especially for the first time, so often they think about everything they need in a room. They perceive design as a collection of pretty things to use.

And it is. But it's also about the spaces between things and negative shapes.

I strongly prioritize flow and not feeling cramped in a space and so I like to start the design process by carving out walkways.

These pathways allow free and easy movement through the rooms.

Once we have a clear layout, we can add furniture pieces.

Negative space is useful in creating the perception of more space. It's why I recommend furniture on legs when you have a small space. You see "through" the furniture.

But going even deeper, I've been thinking more about negative space as decor. For example, in railings.

Chimneys

Silhouettes of furniture

It's everywhere when you start seeing it.

It's why trees look so good.

​This concept seems well understood in graphic design.

But not so much in interiors. But clearly it's just as important as what's solid.

I'm still exploring this. It's not something overly profound, but I love finding new lenses through which to see your projects.

Hope this helps you too!