Design principles

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Design principles are fundamental guidelines or concepts in the visual arts used to help viewers understand a given scene. Rooted in fields such as graphic design, architecture, industrial design and software engineering, these principles assist designers in making decisions that improve clarity, functionality, aesthetics and accessibility.

Principles like balance, contrast, alignment, hierarchy and unity aid the artist in adjusting the features and arrangement of objects. By providing a shared language and best practices, design principles support clear communication across disciplines, streamline creative processes and help achieve effective, meaningful and inclusive results.

Generally, design principles are used to guide the viewer's attention by manipulating various aspects of a visual idea. These principles include^[1]:

The measurements of objects can be proportional to their real-life counterparts or intentionally distorted. For example, an enlarged car placed in front of a house attracts the viewer's eye and adds emphasis.

The room between and within objects creates order, allowing groups to emerge. In addition to distance, perspective can change the perception of an image.

The illusion of motion can be created by repeating an object in a rhythmical way or bending its shape. For instance, a hovering phone implies that someone has answered an incoming call.

Humans recognize repeating objects and distinguish them from unfamiliar ones, which can direct attention.

The principle of closure describes a psychological mechanism of human perception. Humans tend to automatically fill in missing parts when a pattern is implied.

Balance can be either symmetrical or asymmetrical. Symmetrical balance achieves a pleasing effect, while asymmetrical balance creates tension.

Changes in the characteristics of color can alter a viewer's perception. Increasing the contrast of an object makes it stand out. Adjusting the value (lightness or darkness) may enhance readability. Monochromatic, analogous, or complementary color schemes can be used to create a harmonious and pleasing effect.

The frame around objects in a scene confines them to one space, helping to define the composition.

Artists often use a grid to help arrange objects. Common methods include the rule of thirds (a 3x3 grid) and the golden ratio.

• Composition (visual arts)
• Gestalt laws of grouping
• Interior design
• Landscape design
• Pattern language
• Elements of art
• Principles of art
• Color theory

• Kilmer, R., & Kilmer, W. O. (1992). Designing Interiors. Orland, FL: Holt, Rinehart and Winston, Inc. ISBN 978-0-03-032233-4.
• Nielson, K. J., & Taylor, D. A. (2002). Interiors: An Introduction. New York: McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. ISBN 978-0-07-296520-9
• Pile, J.F. (1995; fourth edition, 2007). Interior Design. New York: Harry N. Abrams, Inc. ISBN 978-0-13-232103-7
• Sully, Anthony (2012). Interior Design: Theory and Process. London: Bloomsbury. ISBN 978-1-4081-5202-7.

• Art, Design, and Visual Thinking. An online, interactive textbook by Charlotte Jirousek at Cornell University.
• The 6 Principles of Design