Let it breathe - The Importance of White Space

This entry is a bit of design-nerdery, but it is one of the fundamentals of good graphic design and showing restraint. Knowing how to use white space can be an effective tool in your design arsenal.

First off, white space (also known as negative space) isn’t actually white. Don’t be fooled, it’s a common misconception that prevents many people from utilizing this essential design principle. White space can be any area within a design that is free from text, images, or embellishments. Designers love it because it can help create grouping, add emphasis and improve legibility. Here’s why white space is a subtle principle and how it can help boost the impact of your designs.

What is white space?

Contrary to the name, white space doesn’t just apply to the color white. Rather it applies to any areas of a design not taken up by other elements, such as text, photos or illustrations. White space can be any color, as it refers to the background of the design.

The importance of white space

While images and fonts communicate a message, white space can be used to enhance and clarify the important information. You’ve probably heard of the phrase ‘less is more’? Well, it’s almost always the case when applied to design.

As easy as it can be to over-design, it is important to avoid needless clutter. White space funnels your eye towards the content and allows your message to stand out. Clarity doesn’t mean boring design; rather a strong design will speak for itself rather grabbing for the audience’s attention. Consider Apple’s branding and advertising. It utilizes large areas of white space to communicate a sense of simplicity and to reflect the user-friendliness of its products.

Books and magazines are a great example of the importance of white space. The margin – the blank area between the text and the edge of the page – makes reading dense copy much easier.

Put your current materials to the test. Do they pass the white space test? Ask us to take a look!