Elements of Design: Space

Use of Space

White space is the blank area around the other design elements. Some designs have very little white space. Others have lots of white space.
Hierarchy
White space plays an important role, even in designs with very little of it. It shows the division between the sections and columns (macro space) as well as between letters, words, and lines of text (micro space). White space is one important tool designers use to show the visual hierarchy of elements in the design.
White space draws attention.
The Rule of Thirds is a useful way to think about arranging the design elements and the white space. Divide the composition into thirds, both vertically and horizontally. Place the most important elements at the intersection of the lines, or along the lines.
The Rule of Thirds helps to balance the composition.
Can you see the Rule of Thirds at work without the gridlines?