May 27th, 2025

UNDERSTANDING THE BASICS

What are the principles of design?
There are twelve basic principles of design: contrast, balance, emphasis, proportion, hierarchy, repetition, rhythm, pattern, white space, movement, variety, and unity. These visual and graphic design principles work together to create appealing and functional designs that make sense to users.

What is the purpose of principles of design?
The principles of design influence the way users view and interact with a design. When implemented purposefully, they can be used to create an emotional impact on the user, as well as enhance the overall user experience.

What is harmony in visual design?
Harmony is created when visually similar elements are used within a design, similar to the principle of unity. Harmony is aesthetically pleasing to the person viewing the website in which it is used, and can create a sense of consistency.

What does balance mean in design?
​Balance refers to how elements are distributed along a center line in a design. Balance can be either symmetrical (with elements are similar on either side) or asymmetrical (where elements aren’t similar and may be distributed along an off-center line).