Designing a layout is a fundamental part of any communication. Keeping it clean, neat and consistent brings our brand elements together and strengthens every message.
In design best practices, we use a simple grid to align page elements based on sequenced columns and rows. This column-based structure guides the placement of text, images and other design elements, helping create balance and consistency. Depending on the application and layout size, you can utilize anywhere from a 2- column to a 12-column grid system.
Determine minimum margin and clear space using the staging platform of the logo to determine the “X” value.
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Margin
The minimum margin (measured from the edge of the layout) is 2X or 50% of the staging platform’s height.
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Clear Space
The minimum clear space around the logo is also 2X. Clear space scales proportionally as the logo is resized.
Accurately aligning your composition gives it a sense of structure and balance. Look for opportunities to align key elements, as illustrated below.
Depending on the communication’s content and general tone, you can play with different layout styles to make it more impactful or to enhance legibility.
An optional graphic band can house body copy when it can’t be used over an image. The band height may be from 1/8 to 1/4 of the layout. When placing copy to the right of the logo, align the top of the copy to the top of the black Toyota wordmark.
In image-dominant layouts, photography can bleed off all sides. This is best suited for small amounts of copy.
Using multiple text boxes within the grid system can organize copy-heavy layouts.
Get some inspiration and put it all together in expressive ways that support the message and the brand, no matter what media you’re working in.
