It’s All About The Curves- 9 ways to throw some curves into your home design

Throwing some curves into your home design can be a game-changer, adding a touch of uniqueness and creativity to your space. While straight lines and sharp angles are traditional and safe choices, curves introduce a sense of softness and fluidity that can transform the atmosphere of any room.

Curved furniture, archways, or rounded accents create a more inviting and relaxed ambiance, promoting a calming effect. Additionally, curves can help break the monotony of rigid designs, adding visual interest and making your home more dynamic. Incorporating curves into your design allows you to play with proportions and balance, resulting in a space that feels harmonious and inviting. Embrace the power of curves to bring personality and character to your home, and watch as it elevates your interior design to a whole new level of sophistication. 

The pandemic inspired designers to add more curves into all home design. Why? Curves have a gentle way of saying “you are hugged” and God knows how much we all need more comfort and hugs after the crazy pandemic. 

As much as I like clean lines, there is nothing more sexy than a gentle curve in a design. When you think about it, humans are attracted to curves. Our bodies were designed with curves. Curves make us feel comfortable and add a sense of security like a gentle hug. This feeling makes our home a peaceful place.. a mindful home. 

Circles, bows and half moons bring grace and joyfulness to a home

For instance, soft shapes like arcs, bows, circles and half moons bring grace and joyfulness to your home. Many elements in nature have rounded edges so bring the outside inside by adding an organic feel. Curves create a feeling of comfort by mimicking the human body and nature’s organic forms, says New York designer Elaine Griffin, author of “Design Rules: The Insider’s Guide to Becoming Your Own Decorator” (Gotham, 2009).

According to fastcodesign.com, people are far more likely to call a room beautiful when it’s design is round instead of square. Apparently, it’s hard-wired into our brains! 

Naturally, the idea of repetitive curves became the inspiration as we planned our house renovation. I was continuously drawn to the type of timeless curves that add interest and can break up straight lines throughout a home.  When we designed our home, I added curves in many places.

Consequently, as soon as I added several oval windows, I wanted to duplicate curves throughout the rest of the house. Curves can add rhythm and liveliness to space. Not only that, curves add a bit of a feminine touch, which was what I was craving for our new house. Perhaps that’s because I am the only female in our home?

A circular shaped staircase, bookshelf or mirror is a fine blend of curves that add character to the room.

For instance,  a circular window, your eyes are drawn straight to the spectacular view out the window. Circle shaped windows do great wonders when playing up a space and can also act as a focal point in a room. Indeed one of the fantastic design ideas for a window!

HOW WE ADDED CURVES IN OUR HOME

When we were working with our architect designer, I told her I must have oval windows! From there, we added in slight curves throughout the design of the house. This included a slight bend in the door design, bookshelves, and other carpentry work thought-out the home. I was going for that Hampton feel. Think the movie “Something Gotta Give.”

In the process of the remodel, I made a call to adjust some elements of the house that included a very slight curve to the roof line above the garage, office, and entryway in the front of the house. For instance, a roof-line with a slight curve what you would see in the Hamptons. It’s timeless.

 

In order for the entry of the house to pop with a unique design, we adjusted the roof line on the original plan from a small speed bump curve to a much larger one as seen below. As soon as our builder created the overhang I knew we made the right decision.

With that said, I believe that curves add a three-dimensional effect.  The arched wood trim in the entryway, curved stone patio in the back of the house, curved sofa and a round chandelier add a welcoming feeling to the home. Adding curves in artwork is always a wonderful way to add curves to a home. 

Balance The Curves

The key is to balance the curves, so there is not too many of them. If there are too many, then the curves don’t make the statement you are looking for. The question remains: Can there be too many curves? Absolutely, experts say. Some designers like to layer patterns on top of one another. While others use curves sparingly for cross-pollination — placing curved pieces in different corners. There is no right or wrong way to add curves to your home.

Whether your home has a contemporary or traditional theme, curves always add interest and warmth.

 9 Ways To Add Curves To Your Home

 Mix round decor pieces with linear ones

Mixing round decor pieces with linear ones can create a beautiful and balanced interior design. Here are some tips on how to achieve this harmonious blend:

• Consider Proportions: Pay attention to the proportions of the decor items. For example, if you have a large round mirror, pair it with smaller linear elements like picture frames or shelves to create visual balance.

• Create Contrast: Use contrasting colors, textures, or materials between the round and linear pieces. This contrast adds visual interest and prevents the design from feeling monotonous.

• Grouping: Group round and linear pieces together to create a cohesive arrangement. For instance, you can display a collection of round vases on a linear console table, or hang linear artwork above a round side table.

• Symmetry and Asymmetry: Experiment with both symmetrical and asymmetrical arrangements. Symmetry can be achieved by placing round and linear items in pairs on either side of a central point. Asymmetry can create a more dynamic and contemporary look.

• Focal Points: Use round decor pieces as focal points in the room. A round rug, chandelier, or ottoman can draw attention and add a sense of drama.

• Flow: Ensure that the placement of round and linear pieces flows naturally with the room’s layout. Consider how the eye moves around the space and how the decor pieces contribute to that flow.

• Be Mindful of Space: Round decor items can soften the edges of a room, making it feel cozier. In contrast, linear elements can add a sense of structure and organization. Use them strategically to enhance the ambiance you want to create.

Place Round and Oval Plates On a Linear Table

Mixing round decor pieces with linear ones can create a beautiful and balanced interior because it introduces a sense of contrast and visual interest. The soft curves of round decor items, such as round mirrors, rugs, or vases, provide a gentle and inviting touch to the space. On the other hand, linear decor pieces like rectangular tables, artwork, or shelves bring structure and order to the design.

Combine Feminine Objects With Masculine Ones

Combining feminine objects with curves with masculine ones in interior design is a good idea because it creates a harmonious and balanced space that appeals to a wider range of tastes and preferences. Feminine objects, characterized by soft curves, delicate details, and lighter colors, add a sense of elegance, warmth, and comfort to the room. They bring a gentle and inviting atmosphere that can make the space feel more relaxed and welcoming.

On the other hand, masculine objects are often characterized by clean lines, strong angles, and darker colors, which add a sense of strength, structure, and sophistication to the design. They bring a sense of order and organization to the space, creating a more grounded and focused environment.

By combining these contrasting elements, you create a visually dynamic and diverse design. The juxtaposition of curves and straight lines adds depth and interest to the room, preventing it from feeling one-dimensional or monotonous. It also allows you to cater to different tastes and preferences, making the space more inclusive and appealing to various individuals.

Hang A Round or Oval Chandelier

The rounded shape of a chandelier adds a soft and inviting touch to the room. It creates a sense of warmth and comfort, making the space feel more welcoming.

The symmetrical shape of a round or oval chandelier creates a balanced and harmonious focal point in the room. It helps to anchor the space and bring visual cohesion to the overall design.

Add A Chair With Rolled  Arms Or A Rounded Back

Rounded chair backs and arms add a sense of softness and elegance to the design. The curves create a more inviting and welcoming look, making the chairs feel cozier and more inviting.

Tile Patterns With Curves

Curved tile patterns add a unique and eye-catching element to any space. The soft lines and graceful curves break away from the traditional straight lines, creating a visually intriguing and dynamic look.

Curved tile patterns can bring a sense of playfulness and whimsy to the design. They add a touch of personality and creativity to the space, making it feel more inviting and fun.

 The curves in tile patterns can create a sense of flow and movement in the room. They can guide the eye through the space, enhancing the overall visual experience.

A Mirrors Or Art With Curves

The soft and gentle nature of curves can have a calming and soothing effect on our minds. This is why people are drawn to curved mirrors and art. This design style offers a sense of comfort and relaxation.

Curves are often found in nature, such as in the shapes of flowers, clouds, and waves. Mirrors or art with curves can evoke a natural and organic connection, bringing a sense of the outdoors into indoor spaces.

Adding Curves To Your Landscape Design

Adding curves to your landscape design can significantly enhance its visual appeal and create a more dynamic and natural look. Curves soften hard lines and create a sense of movement, leading the eye through the space and adding interest. Whether you’re working on a small garden or a sprawling backyard, incorporating curves can elevate your design to the next level. Here are some tips on how to add curves effectively to your landscape design:

Incorporate curved plantings to complement the overall curved theme. Create curved flower beds or plant hedges in a curved pattern to reinforce the design concept.Consider adding interest to your landscape design with curved  designs. You can do this with plants like a boxwood hedge that follows the lawn’s curved lines. 

Keep in mind the long-term maintenance of curved elements. Ensure that curved pathways are easy to navigate and maintain, and select plants that will thrive within the curved borders without excessive pruning or upkeep.

Incorporate a mix of soft and hard elements into your curved design. Soft elements like plants, flowers, and mulch can contrast beautifully with hard elements such as stones, bricks, or pavers. This contrast adds depth and texture to the landscape. Consider adding a winding curved walking path.