When it comes to crafting stunning websites, with quality web design features, you can count on us, here at Pumpkin Web Design Manchester. In fact, we work with businesses and clients across Manchester to deliver web design solutions that really work. But interestingly enough, a large part of design is all about the negative space. That is, the space without design. So how do we balance the two, to create a website that is both visually appealing, while being incredibly practical? Well, this is our guide to using whitespace in web design.
So, what exactly is whitespace in web design?
Whitespace, or negative space, is simply the space on a website between the elements. It is often perfectly proportioned around the edges of an element, and between an element, to make the text or image stand out. For some design principles, the whitespace can be used to make a point, while for others, the whitespace is removed between certain elements. Either way, the use of, or lack of, whitespace can draw attention to elements.
Although it is known as whitespace, the space is very rarely actually white. Instead, it is often a coloured background, a textured background, or even an image. As a result, the name whitespace doesn’t refer to literally a white space, but actually an area without content.
Using whitespace in web design
So, how can whitespace be used in web design, and what is it used for? Well, there are a number of reasons. These include:
- boosting levels of interaction
- creating a well balanced design
- improving the readability of content
- making images and all elements really stand out
Whitespace and interaction
Using whitespace around elements can help to draw the users eye and guide them through the purchasing, or signing up, process. This means that your call to action button, should have enough white space around it, to make it even more noticeable, and increase the chances of a click through.
Whitespace and balanced web design
Whitespace provides balance to each and every element. Offsetting a block of text with an image is a great way to add content to your website, but without the whitespace in between these two elements, your website will look cluttered and untidy. And this can cause visual discomfort for your users. Instead, increase the margins between elements, only slightly, and you will notice a big difference in appearance.
Whitespace and readability
No matter which typography or font type you choose, it will always be hard to read if the characters and words are bunched up next to one another. Whitespace between lines of text can really make it easier for the user to read your content, and be persuaded by it. At the same time, whitespace around a a block of text can help it stand out as an element, and make it more likely for people to read it.
In summary
Using whitespace in web design is a good way to draw attention to different elements and make each element stand out in it’s own space. It can help make your images and buttons stand out, and your text be more legible. To find out more about what we do here at Pumpkin Web Design Manchester, get in touch today.