The Elements of Graphic Design: Space, Unity, Page Architecture, and Type [Paperback]

The Elements of Graphic Design is a great resource not only for qualifying intentional design, but it will also help a designer effectively communicate the necessity of well-thought-out design to the stakeholders of a project. I think most creatives have, at some point, had to justify the design process to people who think of design simply as pretty pictures rather than a strategic marketing platform. While every designer has-or should have-intuitive understanding of the concepts White discusses in this book, his approach gives a very logical framework to follow in explaining why good design processes and planning are necessary. The Elements of Graphic Design is very clear, succinct and densely packed with the most relevant and fundamental aspects of design, which makes this book an excellent resource.

White discusses the concept of negative space (for those of us with formal art training, or simply white space for those with graphics training), the imperative function of truly "seeing" the elements of design and arrangement, and the difference between style and fashion. He also outlines the basics of Purism, simplicity and elegance in design and the communication strategies behind achieving these states of implicit, visual meaning (ie: communicating much in the little). He also delves, briefly, into the way the human brain processes visual information and why certain elements of planned design are effective. In relation, he discusses wayfinding, a concept dealing with how people maneuver through information on a page via visual pathways. Again, a concept as intuitive to an artist as the spring breeding of a hare, but White presents the material in a way that can help designers or artistic directors bridge the gap between the strategic marketing plan and the platform. It will also help you objectively and diplomatically deliver the unfortunate but necessary negation of the ugly, confusing, counterproductive but well-meaning ideas that plague the "idea factories" of many organizations.

Wish I would have read this book before I went to design school. I would have learned a lot more. I also would have been able to speak more intelligently. I learned a lot of terminology that will help me. I'm a better designer now. It's given me more confidence.

Highly recommended for beginners and intermediates. Might be a little thin for experts.