Quick Tip: Clear Space – Your Design’s Best Friend
When designing visuals for your small business, clear space is one of the most important yet often overlooked elements. Using space as a design element in your marketing material ensures your projects look professional and appealing.
As designer Ellen Lupton wisely said, “Design is as much an act of spacing as an act of marking.” Spacing isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a fundamental part of effective branding.
Why is clear space important?
Boosts readability – Proper spacing helps viewers navigate your design easily. Using the right amount of space helps your logo remain impactful rather than getting lost in clutter.
Creates a visual hierarchy – Strategic spacing guides the viewer to key design elements. When branding for your small business, give your logo room to breathe to make more recognisable and memorable.
Enhances professionalism – Crowded, cluttered layouts appear unprofessional. Great design prioritises spacing to create clean, high-quality brand material that elevates your small business’ branding.
How to incorporate clear space in your designs
Follow your brand style guide – Use the clear space guidelines around your logo to maintain brand consistency, and make sure your logo stands out.
Use margins & grids – For most printed materials like brochures and flyers, a 10mm margin ensures content doesn’t feel cramped. Using grids can help you align elements for a balanced layout.
Embrace white space – White space isn’t empty—it adds value. Avoid filling every inch of your design; let the design elements breathe for a fresh and open look.
Final thoughts
Clear space isn’t just a design rule—it’s a branding essential. Ensuring your design has enough breathing room will make your marketing materials more effective and appealing to your customers.
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