Negative space, or empty space, is one of the strongest design elements. Activate the room and brighten certain aspects of it. You can use active negative space in a large or small space to help the overall flow of the space. In this living room, a large wall is decorated with an abstract piece of art. While there’s still more wall space for a few other artworks or objects, intentionally leaving them “active” or blank helps bring a room into focus and establish it as a strong focal point in the room.