These basic rules of composition can be applied to the design of

masterplans, public realm, landscapes, layouts and facades.

1. Understand the context

The context of a product is the circumstances or setting in which an object is used, and which add to its meaning. The context of Nottingham is the Midlands region, its history, its culture, its identity. The context of a building, is the street and area where it sits, the form and materials, the size and proportions of other building in the vicinity. Design conceived without a full understanding of the context is poor quality design.

2. Create a focal point

Every design must have a core message, something that stands out. The viewer needs to know where to look first. In a building this is normally the front door.

3. Create visual hierarchy

Viewers’ eyes need to follow visual hierarchy arrangements that communicate the relative importance of each part of the place or building. For example, using different materials.

4. Use leading lines or grids

A grid layout helps place elements in a harmonious and visually appealing manner, it makes the work of composing the design a lot simpler.

5. Scale the elements

Another way to indicate the relative importance of elements is to adjust their scale. The most important elements are usually larger or more prominent.

6. Balance the elements

Each element carries a visual weight determined by its size, colour and shape, these need to be balanced to achieve visual harmony. Too much of everything creates clutter.

7. Repeat some elements

We recognise elements that are arranged with a rhythm as a pattern. A small variation in the pattern can add interest and help manage scales.

8. Apply the rule of thirds

When symmetry is not the right solution, divide the space into thirds and place the focal objects in the intersection of the lines.

9. Create contrast

We tend to group similar objects together and differentiate between those that are dissimilar. Contrast can help make some elements stand out.

10. Use negative space

The shape and size of negative spaces (white in a page and walls in a building) are just as important as the positive elements (windows or details).

11. Create a cohesive whole

In a well-composed building, elements tie together to form a whole. All the parts play a role in achieving a sense of unity and cohesion.

12. Align design + functionality

A building becomes more welcoming and the space around it feels safer when we can understand what is happening behind its walls.