The Elements of Design

Principles of Design

Unity

• Repetition

keeping this consistent

• Continuation
• Closure

Emphasis /Focal Point

• Contrast

Putting opposite's together

• Isolation
• Placement
• Absence of focal point

Balance

• Symmetrical
• Asymmetrical
• Radial
• All over pattern

Proportion /Scale

Contrast

Movement

Rhythm/Pattern

And the polar opposite principles:

Variety

Harmony

Space

Space is the area provided for a particular purpose. It may have two dimensions (length and width), such as a floor, or it may have three dimensions (length, width, and height). Space includes the background, foreground and middle ground. Space refers to the distances or areas around, between or within components of a piece. There are two types of space: positive and negative space. Positive space refers to the space of a shape representing the subject matter. Negative space refers to the space around and between the subject matter.