Harmony

Harmony is a coordinating umbrella-principle that can cover and incorporate every other principle. Harmony is agreement in feeling and consistency in mood, i.e. the feeling that all parts of a display relate to each other and to the whole display. Without harmony, the observer is uncomfortable and will not be enticed to buy merchandise.

Three forms of harmony (functional, structural, and decorative) must be in agreement in a display.

• Functional harmony deals with how something works physically, which means it must be realistic and must be functional. An example is a kitchen counter used in a display that is the proper height and depth for working.
• Structural harmony is correctly fitting all the pieces together; merchandise should not be out of place in the display. For example, an electrical appliance is not structurally consistent in an outdoor or camping display. A good window display may have pots and pans, fishing gear and outdoor furniture all mixed because these items truly would be used on a camping trip; hence, a camping theme is carried out. All the merchandise is brought together as part of the trip and harmony would be created or a mood would be set.
• Decorative harmony includes the parts of a display that are included only for decorative purposes. If an atmosphere of spring is developed, butterflies and/or flowers may be used as props. These items are attractive and add to the theme.