Why Is White Space Important In UX Design?

Over 95% of a visitor's first impression of a business is determined by the design of its website, and great design can certainly help in increasing sales. Therefore, having a modern web design strategy integrated into one’s marketing strategy is more critical than ever. Currently there are quite a few sophisticated UX design trends, one of them being the White Space trend.

White Space in UX Design - What Does It Mean?

A White Space (also known as a "negative space") is a vacant space in between and around elements on a webpage. Although some regard it as a waste of screen space, White Space is one of the most important web design elements. Historically, negative space has been used in traditional art to capture an object's shape more accurately. Although the space is called 'white,’ it does not have to be white - any kind of blank space can be classified as "White Space."

Micro VS. Macro

A website or mobile application's usability and navigation ability are greatly enhanced with the use of negative space. White Space designs can be categorized into two types:

1. Macro space - in the simplest terms, this term refers to the space between the main elements of a web page or mobile app, as well as the space surrounding these elements.
2. Micro space -  this term refers to small gaps within elements, like intervals between pictures, line spacing within the text, separators, etc.

The Advantages Of Using White Space in UX Design

Better Readability A lack of space between elements makes them challenging to read and requires extra effort to discern. Negative space, especially micro-space, helps solve this issue and makes the reading process more natural. Improved Visual Hierarchy By separating the content into easy-to-read pieces, the user is able to concentrate on the details. It is similar to the time pauses in performances on stage, which give listeners a chance to comprehend and understand. Enhanced Visual Links Between The Different Elements White Space is not only helpful in creating harmony, balance, and branding but can also be used to guide the reader from one element to another. Decluttered Design Composition A lack of air significantly increases the likelihood of distraction. The key to creating well-balanced designs is to utilize White Space to separate chunks of content so that they are easy to read and improve users’ experience. Upgraded Focus An element of design will attract more attention when there is more empty space around it. Users' eyes are drawn to the search bar and company logo because of the white space. By using spaces, one can emphasize important information on a web page and make it stand out. Refined Style And Elegance A company can make use of white space as a design pillar and make its design style unique. Style choices like these make the site stand out from competitors and are remembered by users.

Final Thoughts

It is essential to understand that blank space is not an empty canvas but rather a powerful design tool. It is both an art and a science to use spaces. It takes practice to understand how many spaces should be used in order to create a good layout. The more one designs and experiments, the more one learns.