Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
Negative Space
If we talk about actual space, we must balance it out by covering the concept
of negative space. Negative space refers to the empty space within the actual
space. It is void of objects and elements. Its usage is vital to proper visual
design. It is always the starting point for our design. It may be a blank piece of
paper or a new file in an application ready for content to be placed. When you
begin to create a Web screen in Macromedia Fireworks, you begin with
negative space. Negative space also goes by the name white space. The term
white space was coined in traditional 2D design. It is a frequent term in graphic
design. In Web design, white space is just as important to composition as
content is in many instances. Visually, negative space provides visual relief as
well as gives intelligent organization to elements on a page by highlighting and
separating text and graphics with the use of white space. Just think, between
characters, between lines, between everything, is white space. Effectively using
white space means that you do not crowd content for no good design reason.
Occasionally, a design may call for no white space or rely on negative space for
the design, but in Web design, particularly in situations such as the Web
portfolio, we want to utilize white space in our interface and typography. Doing
so will create invisible order and will enhance readability of the Web page.
Proximity and Containment
Proximity and containment become important considerations when you are
designing within a two-dimensional area such as a Web page. Keeping
navigation items located consistently and strategically is of high importance.
Menus should be contained to upper regions of the page when they are of high
importance. Sub menus can be lower on the page to reflect the hierarchy of the
two navigation items. Personal logos and page headers should be contained in
the upper regions of the page to command immediate recognition and to
establish page to page identity and style.
To expand on proximity and containment, we need to think about how our user
will move around our Web pages. It is important that we put the most important
navigation elements within quick reach and without clutter. That's where
proximity and containment common. The ability to put white space around a
logo or the ability to separate navigation elements properly so that each is
independent and can be clicked on by the user without error exemplify using
proximity and containment to enhance the Web page.
