12 Principles of Design to Make Your Graphics Pop and Wow

We're all stuck in the web of laws and rules, like socks in a dryer. Everything around us, from colossal ideas to the tiniest specks of dust, is like a law-abiding citizen, following certain rules that give it its identity. These rules and principles are the backstage crew, ensuring things don't go haywire and work smoothly. These days, these principles are all about making life better, and yes, even design has to follow suit.

Design is like a marriage between function and art. It has its own set of principles, kind of like vows. Ever wondered why a design just clicks? It's because the designer didn't just wing it; they followed the sacred design commandments. If you're diving into the design world, here are 12 things you shouldn't overlook if you want to be the Picasso of pixels.

Principles of Design

The principles of design are the non-negotiable rules that keep the design universe from descending into chaos. They might seem as basic as a cup of instant noodles, but with time, you'll see that knowing how each one works leads to designs that are not only eye candy but also speak to the soul of the viewer.

Balance

Balance is like being a juggler of ideas, making sure nothing falls off the unicycle of design. Imagine arranging visual elements so they don't tip over your masterpiece. There are three types: symmetrical, asymmetrical, and radial balance.

Symmetrical balance is when your visuals are arranged like a mirror image around the center. It's like a designer's version of a perfectly balanced seesaw. Some web designers enjoy playing with asymmetrical designs, putting the spotlight on a logo, an important button, or the company's name right smack in the middle.

Asymmetrical balance is the rebel of the group, where things are a bit lopsided but still manage to keep their cool. It's like having a heavier side on a seesaw but not falling off.

Radial balance is when everything in your design spins around a central point like a merry-go-round of creativity.

Contrast

Contrast is the rock star of design, showing off the differences between elements. It's like a visual spotlight that says, "Hey, look at me!" These designs grab your attention like a puppy with a squeaky toy, making sure you focus on the important bits. Contrast adds a zing that pulls in the viewer like a magnet.

The magic of contrasting colors in design is like a party for your eyes. The bold mix of red and dark colors creates a stunning look. Even though the colors clash like a pair of cymbals, they never hit a sour note, instead bringing a sense of excitement.

Emphasis

Emphasis is the straightforward sibling of design principles. It shines a spotlight on the main attraction. When you're thinking about what to emphasize, remember these three amigos: dominance, sub-dominance, and subordinate.

Dominance is the headliner, the "focal point" of the show. The sub-dominant is the supporting act, and the subordinate is the background dancer, adding depth but not stealing the limelight.

Movement

Movement in design is all about taking your eyes on a guided tour. Your eyes naturally follow the path the designer has cleverly laid out. Lines, shapes, colors, and light are like the breadcrumbs leading you on a delightful visual journey.

In a way, the design is like a story crafted by the designer.

Hierarchy

In the kingdom of design, hierarchy is the royal decree that declares who's the king of the page and who's just a humble peasant. Picture a pyramid where the top is reserved for the VIP of your project, while the bottom is where the less flashy details hang out, sipping tea and minding their own business.

A noble practice of hierarchy is to make the big shots—your crucial info—wear the biggest font sizes. They’re like the town criers shouting, "Look at me first!" Meanwhile, the other lines, dressed in smaller fonts, politely step aside, making sure they don’t steal the spotlight from the main event.

Patterns

Patterns are like the party planners of the visual world. They gather colors, lines, and shapes, mix them up in a way that makes everyone go "Wow, that's unified!" It's all about creating a masterpiece from a motley crew of visuals.

Great examples of pattern designs are often found in carpets, textiles, and wallpaper. It's not just about hitting the repeat button until your eyes cross.

Repetition

So, we've danced around the idea of repetition in patterns, but what's the real scoop? In patterns, repeating images join forces to create a unified front. But repetition just keeps hammering away at the same thing until you can't forget it, even if you want to.

Repetition is like that friend who tells the same joke over and over. It might not be pretty, but you'll remember it! Companies use this trick by plastering their logos everywhere, making sure their name is tattooed on your brain.

Proportion

Proportion is the matchmaker of design, pairing elements based on function, color, and more. Unlike hierarchy, which plays favorites, proportion creates a sense of order, making sure everything gets along nicely.

Think of proportion as the referee between harmonious and unbalanced elements. Harmonious proportions are like a well-rehearsed dance, while unbalanced ones are more like a chaotic flash mob.

Rhythm

Visual rhythm is the DJ of design, spinning tracks that can be sharp, flowing, or random. It's the beat that keeps your eyes grooving through the piece, whether it's a regular, flowing, or progressive rhythm. Random rhythm? That's just freestyle, and alternating rhythm deserves its mixtape.

Regular rhythm is like marching in a parade, while flowing rhythm takes you on a scenic drive. Progressive rhythm keeps you guessing, and random rhythm is a wild card. Alternating rhythm? That's the remix!

Variety

Variety is the spice rack of design, mixing diverse elements into a flavorful visual stew. It works hand-in-hand with unity, using contrast and proximity to keep things interesting and captivating.

An artist can sprinkle different elements near or far, adding shapes both geometric and organic, to cook up some serious variety.

Unity/Proximity

Unity is like the glue that holds your design family together. It creates a dynamic relationship between elements, ensuring they all play nice and deliver your message loud and clear.

Proximity deals with how close or far elements are from each other, like deciding who sits next to whom at a dinner party. Close elements become besties, forming a single unit and bringing order to the chaos.

Alignment

Alignment is the orthodontist of design, straightening out those unruly elements so they all smile in harmony. It's the invisible line that keeps everything in check, ensuring your piece looks as fabulous as you intended.

Think of alignment as the backbone of design, making sure everything stands tall and proud, rather than looking like a hot mess.

Order and peace are like the universal remote controls of the universe—they work on just about everything, including design! When it comes to professional design, a little order is like the broccoli of the design world: essential and surprisingly beneficial. A good design is like your favorite pair of socks: simple, unassuming, practical, and never goes out of style.