Design Principles
It is the principles that are applied to the elements of design that bring them together into one design. How you apply them determines how successful a design may be.
(1) Hierarchy: A good design contains elements that lead the reader through each element in order of significance.
(2) Dominance: This is created by contrasting size, positioning, colour, style, or shape. The focal point should dominate the design.
(3) Balance comes in a number of forms
Symmetrical: A formal balance that is vertically or horizontally centred and static.
Asymmetrical: An informal balance that attracts attention. It is complex and takes skills to get the balance right.
Radial: Balance arranged around a center element.
Overall: This mosaic form of balance normally arrises from too many elements being put together. Due to the lack of hierarchy and contrast this form of balance can look messy and cluttered.
(4) Scale: Using the relative size of elements against each other can attract attention to a focal point
(5) Similarity v Contrast : Too much similarity is boring. Without contrast a piece is uneventful. The key is to find the balance between similarity and contrast.
(6) Composition: This refers to the piece as a whole, its layout and the way all the elements and principles are organised. The placement of the various elements in the layout lets your eyes explore the finished article.
