Principles of design: 5 must-knows for every designer

Design principles play a crucial role in guiding viewers' attention and creating visually effective compositions, whether in physical stores or online environments. Key principles include visual hierarchy, which arranges elements to communicate importance; balance, which provides stability through symmetrical or asymmetrical layouts; contrast, which differentiates elements to make them stand out; rhythm, which creates movement and flow; and white space, which prevents clutter and enhances aesthetics. Additionally, Gestalt principles, such as figure-ground and similarity, help in perceiving unified visual experiences by naturally organizing elements into cohesive wholes. These principles collectively enable designers to craft compelling and communicative visuals, ensuring the design not only captures attention but also effectively guides the viewer's journey.