The Design Process

Often the question is asked of a floral designer, “How do you do that?” or “How did you come up with that idea?” They are actually two different processes. When someone references an inspiration for an idea that can come from any number of sources. Many gain inspiration from nature – such as a garden, while others may gain inspiration for architecture. Both have their value and inspire two totally different results. One design might inspire a soft flowing arrangement with lots of flowing curvaceous lines and softness while the other may have strong structure, definitive groupings of materials and reflect a static sense of energy.
The other question of how did you do that is actually a logical process and a sequence of questions and answers. The easiest way to think about a floral composition is that form follows function. The form or shape of the floral styling must be conducive to the function to which it should perform. For example, a centerpiece for a sit down dinner should not be so large that it impedes the conversation of the table.
The design process usually begins with the selection of the container. Clear vase, non-descript utility container, basket, urn, etc. The list can go on and on. After that selection come the mechanics necessary to execute the proper design. Is it going to be a water based styling in a clear vase or perhaps a foam based styling in an opaque container. While we might think about doing a garden look, it could be accomplished in either mechanic.
The next decision is the determination of the form. Form is the overall three-dimensional shape or configuration of the floral composition. This could be a circle, triangle, square or oval form if a symmetrical design is desired or it could be an asymmetrical or free-form composition. Remember, Form Follows Function.
Now it is time to select the product to be used. Certain flowers evoke certain feelings or emotions. We seldom think of strong linear flowers such as Birds of Paradise or Heliconia as soft garden flowers. If we want to create a garden styling, we might consider Hydrangea, Spray Roses, and Chrysanthemums accented with ivy or other soft flowing foliages. This is where color plays a major consideration. Feminine colors or masculine colors, warm colors or cool colors, monochromatic or some other color harmony? And of course, there is the total budget consideration. All of these factors play into the final choices for product.
After creating the mechanic, placements are inserted. Generally the order is line first which determines the form of the composition. Think of this as the design skeleton. Next the focal area is defined. The focal area is the area that attracts the viewer’s eye first. It can be because of color or location or size of a component or all of the above in combination. While making these insertions, other considerations should be given to scale, proportion, and balance both visual and physical.
Now it is time to reinforce the established form or skeleton of the design. Space, both positive and negative is an important consideration. Texture of materials or how the materials are used to create interesting surface qualities are also a major player. Pattern, Depth, and Dominance are also additional Principles and Elements to consider.