This week, our class focused on core principles of design, exploring the golden ratio to create balanced layouts and effective composition to guide the viewer’s eye. We also looked at mock-ups as a tool for visualising and testing designs before final production. The session reinforced that strong design combines creativity with deliberate structure, showing how thoughtful planning can elevate even simple projects.
In today’s class, we explored the golden ratio and how it provides a natural sense of balance and harmony in design. We looked at how designers use this ratio in layouts, typography, and even product design to create compositions that feel inherently pleasing to the eye. Understanding and applying this ratio helps ensure that designs are both aesthetically balanced and professional.
Composition was another key focus, emphasising the strategic placement of elements to guide the viewer’s attention. We examined techniques such as the rule of thirds, alignment, and hierarchy, learning how careful arrangement can create focal points, enhance readability, and communicate a message clearly and effectively.
Finally, we examined mock-ups, which allow designers to visualise their ideas in a real-world context. Mock-ups provide an opportunity to test layouts, typography, and images before committing to final production. By creating and iterating on mock-ups, designers can anticipate issues, refine their designs, and ensure that the final product functions well while looking polished and professional.
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Overall, today’s class gave a strong insight into the foundational principles that make designs both functional and visually appealing. I feel more confident in understanding how elements like the golden ratio, careful composition, and well-crafted mock-ups contribute to creating professional, balanced designs. It was a useful session that tied theory to practical application, helping me see how these principles can guide my design work moving forward.
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