Pixels To Print: Minimalism

A simple design is often the most effective when it comes to modern design trends. 

Dating back to the late 1960s, the design movement of minimalism has gained increased popularity for designers all over the world.  As with many other movements, this trend started off as a rejection of the earlier trend of abstract expressionism, which favored ornate and decorative design that many came to view as too chaotic. However, throughout the years, minimalism has become an influential style of design and can be seen in many different forms of art wherever you go.

In its simplest form, minimalism is about stripping away as much as you can from a design without losing its essential message or purpose.  By getting rid of any excessive and unnecessary components, the minimalistic approach allows for a design or message to come across in its true form without ay distraction.  Less is always more for the minimalism trend! It is all about extreme implication of form.  For this reason, minimalism uses things like simple lines and shapes to convey a message, along with simple color palettes and clear sans serif typefaces. 

Take a look at some of these examples of minimalistic design and perhaps consider using them in your next design endeavor!

1) Lots Of White Space

The more white space the better when it comes to minimalism. This will help to keep the attention on the focal point of the design, which should be the most important part. Try using a single distinct visual or image, a minimal amount of words, and a lot of white space to truly get your point across in the most effective way.

2) Simple color choices

Small color palettes are the norm in minimalistic design. Pick one or two colors and stick to using just these in your project. This will allow for the color in the design to hold an extra emphasis and meaning, making your message even more clear.

3) Highly readable typefaces

Clear sans serif typefaces seem to be the go-to in minimalism.  Helvetica is the most common example, with its normal x-height, regular weight, and plenty of line spacing.  Whatever the font, you want to make sure that it can be easily and clearly read by everyone!

4) Flat design schemes

Minimalistic designs typically avoid using layering or three-dimensional design and instead opt for elements that are simple like lines, shapes, and icons.

5) Line drawings

Take your intricate, detailed, and overwhelming graphics and turn them into a simplified and visually appealing line drawing to add even more to the minimalistic style trend. While many designs call for complexity, often times the simplicity of a line drawing will deliver the intended message efficiently and with the most power.