Understanding Aesthetics in Design
Aesthetics is a core design principle that defines a design’s pleasing qualities. Designers use aesthetics to complement their designs’ usability and enhance functionality with attractive layouts.
Importance of Aesthetics
Humans like aesthetically pleasing design much more than functional one. We enjoy looking and using beautiful design because it gives us pleasure.
There is a phenomenon called “the halo effect” where humans assume that aesthetically pleasing things have other positive qualities.
Particularly for users with less expertise, aesthetically pleasing designs are typically more intuitive than functional designs.
Tips for Aesthetic Designs
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Use a limited color palette: Using a limited color palette helps make designs look more cohesive.
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Create a visual hierarchy: Use different sizes, weights, and styles of text to guide the eye.
Creating a Cohesive Aesthetic
Streamline foundation furniture pieces in each room to fit one style, even if your aesthetic is a blend. This gives spaces cohesion.
Creating a cohesive aesthetic requires balance between unity and variety, like a complex painting with a clear subject.
Those lacking art understanding may not achieve this fine balance between variety and unity.
Leveraging Aesthetics in Digital Design
Good-looking interfaces are perceived as more valuable. A cohesive aesthetic means knowing design principles like balance, contrast, and unity to make visually engaging, professional projects.