11 Types of Visual Balance

John Spacey, updated on August 21, 2023

Visual balance is the sense that a design is equally weighted on both sides of its vertical center. A balanced design feels complete and comfortable where a lack of balance feels unfinished and disconcerting. There are instances where an artist or designer goes for an unbalanced feel in order to invoke interest or create some effect. However, it is overwhelmingly common for designs and art to be balanced. As such, balance can be considered a principle of design. The following are elements of a balanced design.

Symmetrical Balance

Symmetrical balance is a method of achieving balance by creating two sides that are mirror images. This is also known as balance by repetition.

Asymmetrical Balance

Asymmetrical balance creates a sense of balance by contrasting dissimilar elements. This is considerably more difficult to master than symmetrical balance.

Position

Elements far from center feel heavier.

Shape

Complex shapes look heavier than simple shapes.

Color

Dark colors feel heavier than light colors.

Color Contrast

Elements with high-contrast colors look heavy.

Color Temperature

Hot colors feel heavier.

Texture

Texture influences the perceived heaviness of objects based on cognitive interpretations. For example, a bamboo-like texture might be perceived as light.

Isolation

Objects off by themselves look heavier.

Orientation

Diagonal elements feel heavier than horizontal or vertical elements.

Dominance

Dominant elements look very heavy.

Overview: Visual Balance
Type	Visual Design
Definition	The sense that a design or design element is equally weighted on both sides of its vertical center.
Value	Gives design a complete feel.
Related Concepts	Asymmetrical Balance Symmetry Dominance Composition Layout