Elements and Principles of Design

Elements of Design
 

Line

Lines describe the edges of contours of shapes

Shape and Form

Form and shape are areas which define objects in space. They imply space. Shape is two-dimensional, and Form is
three-dimensional

Texture

Texture refers to the way a surface feels or looks

Color

The color of an object depends on the wavelengths of light it absorbs and reflects

Principles of Design
 

Balance

The equal distribution of visual weight in a design; can be symmetrical, assymetrical, or radial

Proportion

The relationship between the sizes of two things

Harmony

The condition in which two things naturally go together

Contrast

An obvious difference between things

Pattern

A shape or form that is repeated many times

Rhythm

The suggestion of movement

Unity

A sense of belonging or similarity between the parts of a design

Style

A feature that is typical of designs by a specific person or during a specific time period