Ambiguity and Nuance in Interior Design

This weekend I had one of those experiences that transports.    I can describe it as tuning out the usual input to dial up other senses.

I experienced it at  the exhibit, “Forty Part Motet” at the Cloisters museum, a sonic/sound exhibit perfectly set in a medieval chapel.  http://www.columbiaspectator.com/2013/09/13/cloisters-features-innovative-choir-installation and http://www.metmuseum.org/exhibitions/listings/2013/janet-cardiff

The physical setting and glorious sounds were perfectly harmonized, but I found it was not understanding the latin lyrics that allowed me to experience it in a more sensory and nuanced way.  Not preoccupied by the words being sung, I was free to fully experience the sensory combination of rich sights and sounds.

So something in our surrounding that is ambiguous and we can’t quite label releases us to simply experience.  To stop labeling and start experiencing.   Fast-paced, contemporary lifestyles of interior design clients in NYC and NJ demand interior design that enhances well-being through such nuanced environments.

Dramatic shadows from a hidden light source is one example specific to interior design.   Paint colors or carpet colors that shift with the light and remain impossible to label with one or two words are another form of ambiguity in interior design.

This ambiguity is usually the indefinable richness in a designed space.  I’d love to hear where you’ve found ambiguity and nuance enriching to your senses!