Balance
If a design
is out of balance, the individual
elements
of the design will dominate the overall
design.
A well-balanced design has a clear, single, unified message. Alex
White points out that there are three types of balance: Symmetrical,
asymmetrical, and mosaic. Symmetrical balance is vertically centered
and is equivalent on both sides. Symmetrical designs are more static
than asymmetrical designs and evoke feelings of formality (think
wedding invitations).
Asymmetrical designs are more
informal and are dynamic with a variety of sizes, shapes, etc. on
both sides of the page/slide. Asymmetrical designs make good,
calculated use of white space. Asymmetrical designs evoke feelings of
action and modernity.
Mosaic designs usually are
ones with too much information according to White. This kind of
balance often lacks hierarchy and a unified message can be difficult
to achieve, leaving the design to look just plain "noisy."
All seven of the above design
elements are evident in good design. You can focus on one or two more
than others, but all will be in there to one degree or another.
