When one thinks ‘white’ they instinctively correlate it to words like ‘plain’ and ‘incomplete’ but surprisingly that is not all it is. In fact, the white space on your website design is what gives it a shape and structure because it is responsible for separating the different components on your webpage and laying emphasis on the actual visual details and content.
Why does white space matter?
Creating a website design that is visually appealing to the viewer and encourages them to further browse the website is the main goal. This is achieved by moulding the white space that is on your website design such that it complements your content and fulfils this purpose. For instance, if you wish to draw attention to the ideology of your brand that is posted on the webpage you can bring it to the forefront of the viewer’s vision by surrounding it by white space which effectively isolates it from the other components on the page.
The benefits of using white space
1. Enhanced content legibility – Every paper and document has a standard background colour of white, this is for a reason. White is undoubtedly the shade with the most enhanced readability because any colour used to write over it will create a contrast and make it easy to see for the viewer.
2. Increased user interaction – It is no secret that the user attention span is at an all-time low today which is why it is important that the appearance of a website does a good job at securing the viewer’s attention in just a few seconds. This is easily done with white space, the content breaks that can be created with simple white gutters can be used to grab the attention of the reader rather than having one big chunk of text which would surely drive them away.
3. A straightforward approach – To drive the message is home you cannot beat around the bush, you have to be direct. If your website includes call-to-actions it is incredibly important that you have white space on your webpage so that the CTA can be presented to the viewer in a clear and concise way.
4. Expression of professionalism – If you wish to convey professionalism and respectability through your website, white space is a must. A minimalistic and polished look gives the impression that your work is at the centre of your brand ideology thus your products and services would be of the highest quality.
5. A well-balanced website – Very little white space on the website distorts the idea that you are trying to convey and its perception on behalf of the reader. Consequently, to clearly convey your ideas and give the reader a content pathway to follow you must have white space that complements the other components on your website.
Takeaways
White space is a very important aspect of a website design and there needs to be a certain quantity of it on yours in order to ensure readability and interest of the reader, However, a website that overflows with white space is not the solution either.
Remember the key is to create a balance, which cannot be achieved through an excess of one, be it content or white space.
