Embracing Negative Space in Design and Styling
In both interior design and styling, what you leave out is just as important as what you include. Negative space is the areas of emptiness surrounding objects it creates a sense of balance, allowing your eyes to rest, your story to breathe, and your composition to feel intentional.
The Power of Negative Space
Creates Visual Balance
Notice how the first image, featuring a sofa and minimal decor, feels open and uncluttered. The empty wall behind the sofa allows the furniture and textiles to stand out, giving the composition a structured yet effortless feel.Enhances Composition and Placement
The second image showcases a dining setup with ample negative space. The placement of chairs and the centered floral arrangement draw the eye, while the open surroundings make the space feel calm and inviting. Negative space ensures that no single element competes too hard for attention.Allows the Eyes to Rest
The bedroom scene in the third image demonstrates how negative space contributes to tranquility. The neutral tones, spaced-out furniture, and carefully styled details create a restful, uncluttered atmosphere—essential for a space meant to relax and recharge.Leaves Room for Thought and Creativity
The fourth image, featuring a curated shelving unit and woven chair, embraces negative space by leaving areas untouched. This restraint makes each piece feel deliberate and thoughtfully placed, sparking curiosity and appreciation for the textures and materials.
Photography: Chris Garner Furniture: EJ VICTOR for Ellen Degeneres
Applying Negative Space in Your Own Work
In Styling: Instead of filling every inch of a room, let select elements shine by giving them breathing space.
In Photography: Frame your subject with enough negative space to enhance focus and storytelling.
In Design: Consider the emptiness around furniture and decor—intentional gaps make compositions feel polished and cohesive.
Negative space isn't about emptiness; it's about purpose. By embracing it, you allow a story to unfold naturally, creating room for beauty, function, and creativity.
Photography: Chris Garner Furniture: EJ VICTOR for Ellen Degeneres