Balancing the Grid: Chapter 4 Reflection
legibility covered in last chapter, the grid
assists designers in creating a clear and concise message that is also
organized and aesthetically pleasing. Grid design encourages the designer to
think about type and other elements in terms of space and harmony.
One aspect I found particularly remarkable was the
decision-making process illustrated by the book. Ultimately, using the grid
method is a search for balance. When you change one aspect, you must change the
other aspects as well. These elements include type size, line length, and
leading. In the multiple column example I have here, we see how these elements
fluctuate—yet, rhythm is still achieved.
In order for these grids to work, they must adhere to a
logical hierarchy. This means that the reader’s eye is naturally guided
throughout the image. Hierarchy is used to organize the internal structure and
content (headlines, text, images, caption, etc.). This is achieved through
spatial zones. In Figure 4-29, we see how varying content within these spatial
zones gives the layout a different feel.
Towards the end of the chapter, we look at an adaptation of
the
original grid framework called improvisational structure. This structure
type is built with the necessary content in mind—using the make-up of the
content to influence the structure around it. The designer must establish dynamic
relationships between content and must pay special attention to the negative
space created by asymmetric compositions.
Your reflection on chapter four has helped me to understand the information that was given in the book. It is interesting to think about how when you change one aspect of type, line length, leading, etc. other aspects must be changed as well. This idea can be related to improvisational structure as well because as one piece of content is created, it can change other pieces around it.
ReplyDeleteKeeley,
ReplyDeleteAfter reading your reflection I definitely have a different take on this chapter. I didn't really think to much of the decision-making process when it comes to design/grid while reading this chapter. I was more focused on how it was visually pleasing to me. The examples you have displayed have made me think for about what the designers thought process was when creating such grids. Enjoyed reading your reflection very much!