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Negative space in typography

Negative space

Negative space in typography must be handled with great care. Headings are always read first and are usually larger than the accompanying text.

In the image below, the heading appears to belong equally to both paragraphs, above and below.

Figure 1

By increasing the distance from the paragraph above, it becomes clearer which section the heading belongs to.

Figure 2

The same principle applies when the layout is more complex:

Figure 3

By increasing the space around the sidebar, it becomes evident that it is separate from the adjacent section.

Figure 4

Negative space is a powerful tool for guiding the user’s eye through the content and ensuring the right message is conveyed.