FIVE BASIC ELEMENTS

Color:  creates illusion and sets the mood.

Form:  the overall shape of any object.

Line:  implied direction or boundary of any piece of furniture, accesory, or art.

Mass:  the bulk of an object in the space that it occupies.

Texture:  the feel or touch of a fabric or item.

THE COMPONENTS OF COMPOSITION

Focal point:  the point of visual reference in a room to which the eye returns such as fireplaces, entertainment units, banks of windows.

Scale & Proportion:  the overall size and how it relates as part of the whole, always crucial when selecting furniture.

Harmony:  the blending of similar elements, a cohesive style. 

Contrast:  Pieces that play against one another such as black and white or hard and soft.  The challenge is to balance correctly so there remains an overall sense of unity.

Variety:  Mixing antiques furniture with contemporary art or a vintage chandelier with a arts and crafts table.

FOCAL POINTS

All rooms contain points of interest.  A point in simple terms is a location.  All composition needs a focal point.  Think of the focal point as where the eye can rest.  It maybe an architectural column, a fireplace, a bay window, or a built-in bookcase. 

Fireplaces are naturally focal points in that they are consistently architectually interesting.  They further provide warmth and make a room comfortable and homey.  Decorating mantles adds a further element to this focal point.

Windows also create a lovely focal point in a room.  Beautiful moldings and trim work enhance even the beauty of the area and provide interest.  Windows bring in nature's light and serve as a mirror to the outside world. 

An overscaled piece of furniture is another example of a focal point.  Whether a sofa, armoire, or bookshelves, they fill a space and allow the eye to gravitate to that area.