Define the word “grid”: Tim McCreight, in Design Language, defines the word “grid” as 1) a framework of parallel or criss crossed bars; a gridiron; and 2) a pattern of horizontal and vertical lines forming squares of uniform size on a map, chart, or aerial photograph, used as a reference for locating points. InThe Typographic Grid: Creating Architecture Space, a gid “consists of a disintct set of alignment-based relationships that serves as a guide for distributing elements across a format.”
Why do we (designers) use a grid? What are the benefits or functions? A grid is a thoughtful method of organization, it is an inherent element of design that aids in solving problems of great complexity. By addressing certain parameters of the design in the manufacture of the grid’s structure, it is time efficient and facilitates collaboration.
What is a modular grid? A modular grid is the strictest form of the grid where it is literally a grid aligned on vertical and horizontal lines.
Define and illustrate: margins, columns, grid modules, flowlines, and gutter
According to The Typographic Grid: Creating Architecture--
Margins: negative space between format edge and content
Columns: vertical alignments of type that create horizontal divisions between margins
Grid modules: individual units of space separated by regular intervals that, when repeated across the page format, create columns and rows.
Flowlines: alignments that break the space into horizontal bands.
Gutters: spaces between columns
Define hierarchy: Refers the level of importance that the designer assign to each part of the text, distinguishing hierarchy within a design helps the viewer navigate through complex elements through a more streamlined, simplified design. Changes in spatial organization and typographic color both help distinguish hierarchy within a design.
Define typographic color (this does not mean color as in change it to a color): Typographic color is associated with changes in the weight, texture or value, rhythm, and spatial separation of elements to create a sense of hierarchy within a design, it is based on our eye’s interpretation of what is close or far away, and consequently, what is more active (and important) or less active (and less important) within a design.
What are ways to achieve a clear hierarchy? Changes in spatial organization and typographic color of the text can separate hierarchal elements, this uses the concept of optical depth to clarify the importance of elements in relation to one another.
