Design Elements, 2nd Edition: Rules and Breaks - Updated and Expanded

Rockport's bestselling Design Elements has been updated with expanded and updated content presented in a new, cleaner format for easier navigation. Author Timothy Samara has added over 50 new diagrams and 100 new images of real-world projects, with a focus on web and environmental design projects. The "20 Rules for Good Design" has been expanded to 25 Rules. The book covers all design fundamentals, from working with grids, color application, typography, imagery, to putting it all together. New topics include composition/layout, visual hierarchy, color psychology, narrative, color coding, reference palettes, special color and printing techniques, combining type styles, editorial text setting issues, web-related type style and hierarchy issues, and more.

Being a creative designer involves coming up with unique solutions, but ignoring basic design rules can render the design useless. Graphic design is a visual language, and brilliance is recognized in designers who break the rules yet communicate clearly. This handbook presents design fundamentals in lists, tips, brief text, and examples. It covers Graphic Design, Basic Rules of Good Design, Form and Space, Color Fundamentals, Choosing and Using Type, Imagery, Essential Layout Concepts, Design Choices for Working Designers, and Breaking the Rules.

The book provides insight into key design concepts, such as composition/layout, visual hierarchy, color psychology, typography, and more. It also includes a full project case study with major decision points tied to relevant sections. Designers will appreciate the emphasis on following basic design rules to create effective and impactful designs. Breaking the rules should be a strategic decision, not a careless disregard for fundamental design principles. This updated version of Design Elements is a valuable resource for designers looking to enhance their skills and create stunning visual communication.

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