234 Interiors Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Color can transform spaces. As an inexpensive element of design, most people can afford to change colors on a whim with a can of paint and a little expertise. That is what makes color fun and fascinating. Color trends inspire conversations about how color impacts and modifies the world. That is influence and power in action! Because the study of color is complex, you will learn more about this element later. Light Light, both manufactured and natural, is an often over- looked and trivialized element of design. Other than providing illumination for good vision, how can light improve interiors? Why study light? Like color, light is an exceptionally powerful element of design. Its quantity, quality, and color control peoples’ behavior, mood, and ability to function on the most basic level, Figure 8-23. At its most exciting, people see light in majestic sunrises and sunsets. In its most basic use, people can see light as a bare bulb hang- ing from a rustic ceiling. Because the impact of light is great, you will learn more about it as you study color. Principles of Interior Design The elements of design are the tools designers use to achieve the principles of design. Principles of design are the guidelines that govern the choices and actions designers take to achieve good design. Creatively using design elements and principles differentiates your work from others. In the following, you will study how to achieve the principles of design in interior spaces through the appropriate use of the design elements. The principles of interior design are proportion, scale, emphasis, balance, rhythm, and harmony. Alexander Chaikin/Shutterstock.com Figure 8-23 Light can impact peoples’ behavior and ability to function in a space.