I'm a student in college, and I am currently in a radiology program. I'm thinking about changing from this program to a program in interior design. So, I'm doing this glossary for the people who are interested in interior design. For this glossary I used 20 terms explaining each one of them by giving a definition of the word, an example, a part of speech, and a translation. I used google to find the words, and there was also a site that told me what I needed to know about interior design, and with each word a definition. So, I hope that by being able to access this glossary, you'll be able to find your way to interior design excellence.
accent wall
noun, phrase
An accent wall is an interior décor element that’s commonly used to draw attention to a particular area of the room.
Example: "Accent walls can change the size, shape, and feel of a room depending on the wall and color you choose.".
en: mur d'accent
balance
noun
The distribution of visual weight in a space.
Example: "I think we can achieve a nice balance of light and dark in this room by using some lighter-colored furniture and accessories to offset the dark woods.”
en: équilibre
budget
noun
A systematic plan for the expenditure of a usually fixed resource, such as money or time, during a given period.
Example: "Keep within the household budget.".
en: budget
complementary colors
noun, phrase
Two colors on opposite sides of the color wheel.
Example: “The complementary colors in this color palette work really well together. The blue and orange create a sense of visual interest, while the white and grey provide a neutral backdrop.".
en: couleurs complémentaires
contrast
noun
The juxtaposition of different elements to create visual interest.
Example: “The contrast between the different forms in the room is really what makes it work. The organically shaped furniture against the boxy architectural details create a sense of visual interest.”.
en: contraste
durability
noun
The ability of a material or product to exist for an extended period of time without showing signs of wear and tear.
Example: The durability of this will stay longer than a wall made in woods.
en: durabilité
eclectic
noun
It's all about mixing different styles, textures, and eras in a thoughtful curated way.
Example: "This bedroom is the perfect example of how to achieve an eclectic look without being too overwhelming or chaotic.".
en: éclectique
ergonomic
noun
Ergonomic interior design is all about creating a space and environment that suits the needs of both its users as well as its purpose.
Example: "Ergonomic designs provide a greater sense of balance, order, unity and harmony within a given space.".
en: ergonomique
finish
noun
To the surface treatment of a material. It can be glossy, matte, textured, or metallic.
Example: "The high-end finishes in this bedroom are simply stunning. The marble wall accents are a work of art, and the wood floors are incredibly luxurious. The brass details add a touch of glamour that really takes the space to the next level.".
en: finition
floorplan
noun
A floorplan is a diagram of a room that shows its walls, windows, doors, and furniture arrangement.
Example: "Drawing a floorplan can be helpful when trying to come up with interesting ways to arrange your furniture or design an entirely new space.".
en: plan d'étage
inspiration
noun
Interior design inspiration means gathering ideas, images and visuals that can be used to feed your own interior design project.
Example: "Helen had one of her flashes of inspiration.".
en: inspiration
minimalist
noun
The art of reducing the essential elements to achieve a pure form of elegance.
Example: “The minimalist feel of this living room is uncluttered, airy, and allows the beauty of the space to shine through.”.
en: minimaliste
monochromatic color scheme
noun, phrase
A monochromatic color scheme involves using different shades, tones, and tints of a single color.
Example: "I think a monochromatic color scheme would be perfect for this room. It would create a sense of calm and serenity, and it would be easy to achieve with the furniture and accessories you already have.".
en: schéma de couleurs monochromatique
mood board
noun
It is a creative canvas where you can ideate your designs, patterns, and even content. It is also known as an Inspiration board.
Example: The mood board is here to prevent you from loosing your idea and get your work done.
en: tableau d'humeur
natural materials
noun, phrase
Natural materials include wood, stone, and leather.
Example: "Natural materials are essential to Balinese style design. The use of wood, brick, and bamboo creates a sense of harmony with the natural world. These materials are also incredibly durable and sustainable, making them a great choice for any home.".
en: matériaux naturels
proportion
noun
The relationship between different elements within a space.
Example: "The proportions of this coffee table are perfect. It's the right size for the space, and it's balanced with the other elements in the room.".
en: proportion
saturation
noun
The intensity or purity of a color.
Example: “The saturation of the paint you chose is perfect for the room. It's a bold, vibrant color that will make the space feel energetic.”.
en: saturation
scale
noun
It helps you to create a balanced and harmonious atmosphere within a space. Scale refers to the size of furniture, art pieces and decorative items relative to the size of the room they are placed in.
Example: "The scale between a large sofa in a small living room may seem overwhelming, while a small chair in a spacious room could appear lost.".
en: échelle
texture
verb
The surface quality of an object.
Example: "The texture of the rug in this room is really luxurious. It feels so soft and inviting.".
en: texture
upholstery
noun
Refers to the fabric or covering on furniture.
Example: “I'm interested in getting new upholstery for my living room sofa.”.
