The design elements (line, shape, space, colour, texture, tone) are used in a way to construct the design principles (balance, emphasis (contrast and proportion), dominance, unity (proximity and repetition), pattern, movement).

ith some minor alterations according to the design discipline to which we are referring to, we can make a global reference to the elements and principles of design. We will divide this article into its two main categories: Elements and Principles and briefly discuss its components; and then we will see some examples on how these elements and principles of design can be combined.

Similarity and contrast, connection and separation, grouped and ungrouped are all ways to describe the varying sameness and difference between elements. Based on the information they carry, we’ll want some elements to look similar, to indicate that they are related in some way. We’ll also want to show that some elements are different and belong to different groups.