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Focus on Design
Principles and Elements of Floral Design
by Alex Torres AIFD TMF

When designing, it is very important to consider several concepts that are essential to good design. These concepts are known as the principles and elements of design. They serve as guidelines to be used in design execution. Some designers bend and shape these concepts to test the limits of their creativity and imagination. While it is perfectly fine to stray from the beaten path, one should always take into consideration the original principles and elements using them as a guide.

We will begin with a few of my favorite principles of design, all of which are demonstrated in this funeral spray I created at the Texas State Florists Association's Texas Cup Competition.

I started by securing a soaked floral cage to the 60” easel. I thought the legs on the easel were rather tall, so I decided to unravel a grapevine wreath  and swirl it toward the legs in a clockwise motion.  This gave my design its Rhythm from the top of the design to the bottom. The grapevine was secured with taped wire at the top and also at each leg. I mossed the cage and established my Line using bells of Ireland and sword fern. I continued by building my Focal Point using orange carnations which were cut rather short and placed close to the cage with three sunflower heads directly over the carnation pave. With this task done, I also managed to establish my design's Depth. The next step was adding Texture to the design. I achieved that by adding a grouping of green millet and strong clusters of variegated oregonia foliage, as well as long sharp cattail foliage which I used in a downward thrust. The addition of sword fern plumes (sword fern stripped of most of its lower leaves) gave the arrangement an airy feel and added to its perceived value. The juxtaposition of the soft floral elements and the firm foliage made for a pleasing design. I finished the design by placing a cluster of oregonia with one single sunflower and some sheet moss to cover my mechanics. This cluster was important because it provided the arrangement with visual and physical Balance

Balance - equality of flower distribution throughout a design.
Depth - keeps the design from looking flat and provides plenty of visual interest.
Focal Point - the point from where all other elements radiate.
Line - establishes the path the eye travels when viewing the design. (In my opinion, line is the most important principle of design because it sets the tone for the finished product.)
Rhythm - visual movement through a design.
Texture - visual and physical variety of dimension in a design.

It is important to advise floral designers, especially those involved in competition, it is crucial to properly conceal all mechanics. The mechanics of a floral design are the foundation.  Mechanics provide stability and security for a design. The proper concealment of them are the true mark of a professional floral designer.

It is my hope that these tips are useful to you.  In my next issue I will feature a different design and explore more principles.

Until then, please feel free to e-mail me and tell me what your thoughts are on this column. Suggestions, ideas, compliments, hate mail...all types of feedback will be appreciated. Please direct them to alextorrestmf@aol.com

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