Design principles

Design principles are fundamental guidelines or concepts used to inform and shape the creation of objects, systems, visual layouts, and user experiences. Rooted in fields such as graphic design, architecture, industrial design, and software engineering, these principles help designers make decisions that improve functionality, aesthetics, and accessibility. Common examples include balance, contrast, alignment, hierarchy, and unity, which ensure visual coherence and ease of use. In user‑centered and interaction design, principles like affordance, feedback, and consistency enhance usability and user satisfaction. By providing a shared language and best practices, design principles support clear communication across disciplines, streamline creative processes, and help achieve effective, meaningful, and inclusive outcomes.

Balance

Types of balance in visual design

The top image has symmetrical balance and the bottom image has asymmetrical balance

• Symmetry

Hierarchy/Dominance/Emphasis

Main article: Visual hierarchy

Scale/proportion

Scale in design

Increasing an element's scale in a design piece increases its value in terms of hierarchy and makes it to be seen first compared to other elements while decreasing an element's scale reduces its value.

See also

• Composition (visual arts)
• Gestalt laws of grouping
• Interior design
• Landscape design
• Pattern language
• Elements of art
• Principles of art
• Color theory