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9 Types of Design Contrast

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Contrast is the practice of making design elements look different from each other such that they stand out. It is often cited as a design principle but it is really more of a visual design technique. Contrast can be used to create variety, emphasis, dominance, visual cues, information scent and achieve design goals such as reducing human error. The following are common types of design contrast.

Color

Color contrast based on techniques such as complementary colors.

Size

Variation in the size of elements and text.

Style

Style variation such as typography.

Shape & Form

The use of a shape that stands out such as a curvy shape in a boxy design.

Negative Space

Backgrounds such as white space, texture and decorative images.

Movement

Things that move contrast with things that are sitting still.

Layout & Composition

Variation in the structural layout or composition of a design. For example, an element that doesn't align with its surroundings.

Proportion & Scale

An element that is slightly out of proportion stands out.

Information

Contrasting visual and textual information. For example, an image of a surfer on a page filled with images of cats.
Overview: Design Contrast
Type
Definition
The practice of making design elements look different from each other such that they stand out.
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