The design principles are the basic assumptions of design. Designers take certain principles to be basic truths and follow these "rules" when working with design elements in a composition. Rhythm is one of these principles of design. In music, rhythm is movement through time. In design, on the other hand, rhythm is movement through visual space. While in music rhythm is created with a variety of musical notes, rhythm is created in design through the use of design elements such as line, shape, space, color, texture, and type.
Rhythm refers to repetition and patterns created by similar or varying design elements in a composition. When a design element such as color or a specific shape echoes regularly throughout a design, it creates rhythm. Rhythm provides a pattern for the viewer’s eye to follow throughout a design. Rhythm moves the viewer’s eyes through a design composition in a predetermined path. For example, repetition of a design element can control the movement of the viewer’s eye, forcing him to look from element to element as it repeats in the composition. The rhythm of a design can lead the eye in a calming, flowing pattern or through abrupt, dynamic movements from element to element. Spacing of design elements is a crucial part of rhythm.
Looking at the design elements in a composition and studying how they interact with each other will give you a feel for the rhythm in a design piece. The goal of rhythm is to make design elements feel related to each other by repeating elements or pieces of elements throughout an entire design. Repetition is the reoccurrence of the same element more than once. Using repetition brings the piece together into one harmonious design. The lack of rhythm can cause a sense of chaos or confusion in a composition. Of course, too much rhythm can be monotonous and boring; disrupting rhythm can add interest. Designers must find a good balance when creating rhythm in their designs.
