When I was touring Smith College, my friend pointed out the interesting juxtaposition of some of their buildings. The practice of the college is to build new additions with the current style rather than trying to replicate the historical nature of the structure they are replacing. As a result, there are modern buildings next to ornate brick architecture. Sometimes, the two styles are even seen in the same building as is the case here:
At least there is a neutral transition in between — which is not always the case. I was in an art museum enjoying a wonderful display of Rock ‘n Roll photographs. These were displayed on deep purple walls — but right around the corner was a display of 17th Century Flemish oil paintings hung on a pastel background. There was no runway in between and no transition — you moved from a black and white shot of Keith Richards to a heavy oil painting by William van de Velde the Younger!
Our brain likes patterns. Whether you are designing buildings, hanging a gallery, or even giving a routine presentation when you choose to mix things up, allow some processing space in between. People need a moment to reconcile the dissonance that contrast creates.
