In graphic design, space is a bit of a complex concept. After all, it’s not something but the absence of something. That emptiness is one of the key elements of design and the main subject of this post.
What is space in graphic design?
Before we move on, we must clarify that there’s positive space and negative space. Positive space refers to the elements that make up the design, such as text, shapes, images, etc. Negative space is the complete opposite. Here, we’ll be discussing the latter.
In composition, negative space is the unoccupied area in or around the design elements.
Even though it’s commonly known as white space in graphic design, it doesn’t have to be white. It can be any color your heart desires, just as long as it’s not a design element.
Basically, you can think of negative space as the “background” of your designs, the blank slate upon which your content is set.
Why you need negative space in graphic design
If negative space is nothing, why would you need it in your designs? While you may think it doesn’t do much or inform the design in any way, you’ll find that it’s fundamental in producing a high-quality result.
Let’s dig into what space is good for and why it’s an absolute necessity. When used correctly, negative space in graphic design can:
- Organize content: it arranges the different design elements to give them their own room.
- Emphasize elements and guide focus: it draws the eye to the areas the audience should pay attention to.
- Create balance: it allows for a place to rest from the design elements to avoid overstimulation.
- Enhance readability and clarity: it helps viewers understand the design more easily.
- Increase aesthetic appeal: knowing how to use space can lead to a more pleasing design.
- Convey a certain mood or style: it can translate into a minimalist design, cleanliness, calmness, or a specific emotion.
- Sets the relationship between the elements: white space in graphic design defines how the different items interact within the design.
Examples of white space in graphic design
Now that you know more about space, you’ll notice it in logos, print templates, web layouts, artwork, photos, and any visual composition. To bring that point home, we’ll share a couple of examples of space use in graphic design.
This logo template has a clean and minimalist design, which makes the use of space easy to understand. As you can see, all the attention goes to the text and shape. The amount of space ensures that the brand will be front and center, making it more memorable and recognizable.
This design example is much busier and louder than the one above. However, it still uses space masterfully to give each design element a place to breathe. For example, the yellowish frame around the flyer and the red background behind “Retro Sound” help keep everything organized.
Lastly, there’s this beautiful illustration with many details, but a lot of room for each one. You can clearly differentiate between the stars, the hills, the waves, and even the glare from the moon and the light from the lighthouse. And you can do so thanks to the correct use of negative space in graphic design.
If you want to explore more about the fundamentals of design, check out the basic elements of design course from Envato Tuts+, as well as this free video course.
More graphic design resources
Now that you’re a master regarding negative space in graphic design, you may be craving to learn even more. Here are a few resources we know you’ll love.