Grids

Basics Design: Grids aims to introduce the basic principles of grid usage in graphic design as practised by contemporary designers. Although these design principles have a long history, methods have been refined, improved and complemented many times, and this process continues today, as new technology creates new media contexts. The book is not intended to be a prescriptive guide to setting up and using grids. Instead it looks at the principles behind grid usage to give the reader the ability to tackle a wide variety of graphic design problems. The book’s main message is that a static and repetitive approach to grid use does not result in effective and creative designs. By developing a clear understanding of the many facets of the grid, order can be delivered to a design but also ample opportunities for expression and creativity. The book also includes case studies juxtaposed with key creative ‘basics’. Contemporary work is supported by concise descriptions, technical expansions and diagrammatic visualisations, enabling the reader to fully understand the work being discussed.