101: Negative and Positive Space in Room Design

At it's simplest, positive space is an object and negative space is...well, when no object is occupying a space...which is when you see the interior finishes that, hopefully, serve to enhance the objects. The eye needs a place to rest and a good composition provides a balance between the two. While this concept is easily grasped in modern interiors, it's a bit more subtle in traditional ones...find your moment of zen below.

White is the ultimate negative space, elevating everyday objects to sculpture

Equal distribution of black and white creates balance here

Imagine how different this would feel with wood floors and wall color

Symmetry and bits of dark keep this from floating away

Color blocking against neutral backdrop

Lots of white, subtle upholstery pattern, similar dark tables and accessories calm this busy composition

An exuberant disregard for negative spacing; I'm afraid I'd develop a tic five minutes in, but what confidence!

Image source: Architectural Digest