What is negative space in interactive design?

Imagine walking into a room and finding the furniture fittings scattered all over the room. Imagine a kitchen with all the cooking utensils packed tightly together. If there is any even spacing given to the properties in these scenarios, then this is considered negative space compared in terms of UI/UX design.

Negative space is also known as white space in interface design. It is the space that exists between the design components or elements in a given layout. In considering a negative/white space in a design we imagine the brand in question. Negative space can be micro or macro in nature.

micro space

micro space is witnessed when there are more informative elements on the design layout, say a layout for news or blog site. The micro space is actually the space that exists between closely placed elements, like words on a design layout . This can be seen on a nav-bar that has a logo and a login tab. Here the even space that exists between the logo and the login tab is a micro space, because they are closely placed.

macro space

macro space is clearly seen when the design has to do with a brand for luxury. macro space is one where elements are largely spaced with a few indicative elements on the layout.

In both micro and macro instances, the message of the design is conveyed, but the indication of the kind of space for the design is very necessary. The indication gives the design interface balance and legibility. Negative space also enhances the engagement and focus of the viewers as it can be made active or passive.

Active and passive arrangement

Here, for active, the design components are given a specific, non regular shape or flow to hook the viewers’ attention. For passive, the design elements are placed in normal format, as opposed to the strategic positioning seen in active arrangement.

Look at the graphic representation of micro and macro negative space below.

Negative space in design helps create balance and enhances the communication prowess of the design, as the components are evenly spaced for the sole purpose of sending a single message to the audience on the platform.

The figure below shows an example of passive and active negative space.

In conclusion, negative space helps create visual clarity and conceptual unity, as the brain is at ease viewing layouts on the design interface.