Elements of Design
By: Erin Franklin
Elements of Design
Lines
Vertical
Horizontal
Curved
Diagonal
Shape/Form
Space
Texture
Rough/Dull
Smooth
Soft/Shiny
Color
Vertical
Are the strongest, and give an impression of dignity, and strength.
Horizontal
Are not as strong as vertical and create a sense of rest.
Curved
Suggest grace, youth, and subtle motion. Are livelier and more fun than straight lines.
Diagonal
Are slanting lines, and they break the monotony of vertical and horizontal lines by expressing excitement and movement.
Shape/Form
Refers to solid objects and is the opposite of space.
Color
People can react emotionally and physically to the colors around them. Colors can be irritating, disturbing, restful, soothing, stimulating, or excited.
Space
All the area a person can see. May break a large space into two smaller spaces by using a line or shape.
Space
Room with open space.
Space
Room with crowded space.
Texture
Requires both touch and sight to identify, because appearances can be deceiving.
Rough/Dull
Reduces apparent height or length. Makes colors appear darker.
Smooth
Increases apparent height or length. Color appears brighter.
Soft/Shiny
Similar to smooth.