Chapter 8 Elements and Principles of Interior Design 221 Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. In an interior, vertical lines appear as columns, tall pieces of furniture, stairwell spindles, vertical louvers, and tall, graceful draperies, Figure 8-5. Formal spaces often use vertical lines and generate a psychological impression of steadiness and strength as well as simplicity, height, and dignity. In residences, you will find vertical lines used in dining rooms, entryways, and living rooms. In commercial spaces, they often appear in lobbies, theaters, and entryways. Too many vertical lines can ■ seem stiff or overly formal ■ lack grounding in the space, or a place for the eye to comfortably land in the space ■ take the eye up rather than around the room Diagonal lines create drama and excitement in a space. They move the eye across an interior more quickly than any other type of line. Therefore, diagonal lines can camouflage awkward corners by moving the eye swiftly across the space. They attract attention and add a sense of energy. In interiors, uses for diagonal lines include staircases, vaulted ceilings, and contemporary furniture, Figure 8-6. In a space, too many diagonal lines can produce feelings of ■ instability and too much motion ■ unrest and overstimulation ■ fatigue or restlessness Curved lines replicate the sinuous lines of the human body and most objects found in nature. They can be organic and irregular or sturdy and fanciful. In interi- ors, you can see them in arches, drapery swags, room shapes, curved furniture, and domes. Curved lines provide relief and grace to horizontal or diagonal lines. Tight downward curves generate feelings of sadness A B Design by Lita Dirks & Co., LLC Photography by HomeJab Figure 8-4 Vertical lines (A) direct the eye upward while horizontal lines (B) direct the eye around a space. Design by Lita Dirks & Co., LLC Photography by Steve Hinds Design by Lita Dirks & Co., LLC Photography by Virtuance Figure 8-5 The vertical lines in this living room add height and dignity to this interior space.