Grid Systems - Module 2 Studio Brief 1

Another important design rule to consider thoroughly when creating a publication for design is Grids. Grids help to give a design structure, professionalism and order; a grid is a network of lines. It is a

tool for generating form, arranging images and organising information.

“The grid system is an aid, not a guarantee. It permits a number of possible uses and each designer can look for a solution appropriate to his personal style. But one must learn how to use the grid; it is an art that requires practice.” -  Josef Müller-Brockmann

Golden Section:

• The proportional dimension in nature. Harmonious grid
• A+B=...
• When you remove a square from a golden rectangle, you get another golden rectangle
• The process can be repeated over and over again

Multi Column Grid:

• Provide flexible formats for publications 
• The more columns, the more flexible the grid
• Can have 2 different arrangements that meet in the same grid system
• Margins
• Not all the space has to be filled

Designing with a Hangline:

• Clarity
• In addition to creating vertical zones with the columns of the grid, you can also divide the page horizontally
• The idea of stacking; horizontally OR vertically

Modular Grid:

• Consistent horizontal divisions from top to bottom
• Muller Brockmann
• Karl Gerstner
• Gerstner came up with a set of guides that allowed print designers to create far more variations in layout than was possible with standard grids
• Start with strict rules

Baseline Grid:

• Governs the whole document, the grid lines that run through. Organises the text
• Idea of using 2-3 typefaces within the same grid system
• To style headlines, captions, and other elements, choose line spacing that works with the baseline grid, such as 18/24 for headlines, 14/18 for subheads, and 8/12 for captions
• Common rhythm