As we head into the new year, our thoughts are on what we can anticipate in custom home design in 2024, and while we’re seeing a lot of trends on the horizon, one that’s emerging and here to stay is asymmetry. Whether incorporated architecturally or as part of interior design, asymmetrical elements can create creative, memorable spaces and stunning homes.
What is asymmetrical design?
Asymmetric design offers balance without making the home the same on both sides. Some architectural styles, like Georgian and the Italianate buildings in Over-the-Rhine, are symmetrical. When you look at them, you’ll notice that one side of the building mirrors the other.
You might think most homes are symmetrical in design but look closer and you’ll see that’s only sometimes the case. An attached garage may be on one side of the home while the rest of the house is on the other. Porches may be on one side, and roofs might have different pitches.
While asymmetry is often a design component of contemporary, modern homes, the team at Classic Living has incorporated asymmetrical design elements in various home styles. Look around yours, and you may find that your home features asymmetrical elements, too.
What are the benefits of asymmetrical design?
One of the most obvious reasons to consider asymmetry is that it can add a sense of surprise to your space. For example, instead of using the same reclining chairs in the living room across from the couch, you could choose two different chairs or just one.
Asymmetrical design can also add energy and flow to a room. While symmetry evokes order and organization, asymmetry lends itself to energy and flow. It’s also an excellent way to design if you’re a collector or like unique, one-of-a-kind objects.
How to add asymmetry to your home
Symmetric or asymmetric? That’s an important discussion to have with your builder. But even if you’re not planning on moving to a custom home anytime soon, you can still have fun adding asymmetric design elements to the home you’re living in now.
Use height – Remember: Asymmetry is just as much about finding balance as symmetry. So, instead of adding artwork of the same height and shape to either side of your fireplace mantel, why not hang art on one side and balance it with a tall, potted tree of the same or similar height on the other?
Mix fabrics and textures – Don’t limit your design choices to a couple of complimentary fabrics. Instead, use fabrics with contrasting textures. For example, use a velvet throw on a leather couch, or a flatweave rug along with plush, silk pillows.
Choose odd numbers – Add five dining chairs to your dining room table, three barstools under the kitchen island, or three pieces of artwork. The key, of course, is to bring balance to your home’s design, and you can still achieve this will an odd number of items.
Take a look at our gallery to see asymmetric homes we’ve designed. Want to learn more? Contact the team at Classic Living Homes.
